UCSA apologises after crowd boos and throws items at DJ twins

The University of Canterbury Students' Association (UCSA) has apologised to the Katayanagi Twins after a crowd booed and threw items at the duo during a university event. The sisters, Rain and China Katayanagi, were performing at the sold-out Tea Party in Christchurch on Saturday when technical problems occurred. An overheating mixer caused their planned hour-long set to be reduced to only two full songs.

The twins described the experience as "rough, it was brutal" and noted that the crowd began chanting "DJ f... off". One sister stated in a social media video that the audience did not understand the issues were not their fault. They had attempted to switch mixers because the equipment was overheating and the music kept cutting out.

The UCSA stated the technical issues "were entirely on us and are not a reflection on the Katayanagi Twins". The association also apologised for failing to remove the performers from the stage sooner to protect them. Organisers said they would conduct a follow-up regarding the behaviour of the crowd.

The Katayanagi Twins, who are a renowned duo from West Auckland, said they feel they need a "redemption gig".

How it developed

• Sun 18 Oct, 6:48pmThe report identifies the Katayanagi Twins as a renowned West Auckland duo and provides more detail on their attempt to switch mixers.
• Mon 19 Oct, 9:18amThis report specifies the duo is from West Auckland and includes more of the UCSA's apology regarding artist safety.

Compiled from reports by Stuff, The Press, NZ Herald and Otago Daily Times.