We have all heard the stories. Excited fans arriving at a venue, only to be turned away because their overpriced tickets are not valid.
Not a concert or major sporting occasion takes place in the world without someone being caught out by scalpers — and New Zealand is no different. The deception comes in several forms: overinflated resale prices, tickets not arriving in time for the event or, in some cases, tickets simply being fake.
Many victims only have themselves to blame as warnings about ticket resell sites, such as Swiss site Viagogo, have been well signalled. But it seems fans’ blind desire to ensure they can access popular events means some are prepared to take the risk.
The Government announced in March last year it planned to stop the practice of ticket scalping through implementing a price cap on resale tickets and banning ticket-buying bots — automated software which lets scalpers buy up large quantities of tickets .
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said it was "fundamentally unfair that people are profiting, while our arts and culture sector is shortchanged and consumers are being scammed". She said there was an "obligation and a responsibility" on the Government to do something about this issue.
But as another bumper year of concerts and events appear on the horizon, nothing has been put into action. In the meantime, more people get ripped off.
A record number of complaints were laid with the Commerce Commission last year. The increase came on the back of growing issues with ticket resale sites. Viagogo attracted a host of complaints for selling fake tickets and tickets at inflated prices.
The New Zealand rugby union cancelled almost 700 fraudulent tickets to the All Blacks- Springboks test in Wellington which were sold through unauthorised sites.
The commission said it appeared many people, about 85% of complainants, were unaware they were purchasing tickets from a resale site.
Sites often play on people’s emotions — urging fans to buy quickly, and be prepared to pay extra, warning tickets are scarce.
Consumer NZ has called for both promoters and ticket companies to be upfront about how many tickets are available for general resale, and the number of events planned.
It offered some clear messages, urging the public to buy from authorised ticket sellers, not to panic if tickets sell out as often additional dates or seats are later released; ignore pressure tactics; be aware of the face value of the ticket and check details carefully. Often purchasers were unaware of hidden fees, that seats had a restricted view, or the amount being charged was not in New Zealand dollars.
The South is not immune to these problems. Last year in Dunedin concert-goers to Norah Jones and Six60 were left out of pocket and angry after purchasing fake tickets online.
Increased access to international music acts through Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium has only highlighted the issue.
Dunedin’ is poised to host some big names in the music world next month and demand for tickets means some people will be trying to make a quick dollar at others’ expense.
Elton John brings his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour to Dunedin on February 4 while six days later Queen, featuring Adam Lambert, will grace the stage.
Tickets to both events are still available through authorised ticket sellers so people have no excuse for being caught by scams. But until the Government takes steps to formally clamp down on scalpers there is every chance someone will.
