A 'loud cracking noise' heard as balcony collapsed: witness recounts
A video has emerged providing a first-hand account of two men who watched as a first-floor balcony collapsed in New Zealand, injuring at least 18 people during a performance by Kiwi band Six60.
One of the men said "everyone went crazy" and started jumping on the balconies just as the band was about to start playing on Friday evening.
The other man said he "heard a loud cracking noise" like "someone was cracking a bottle" the moment the balcony collapsed at Castle St, Dunedin.
Hope those balconies hold up. #six60 #dunnerstunner pic.twitter.com/5yTqT3lApE
— Rhys Chamberlain (@NZChambo) March 4, 2016
@SIX60 were told by Police, security, & their team to keep playing. Thoughts with those who were injured. #dunedin https://t.co/xHlsEqoIOK
— Mandy Te (@mandyte94) March 4, 2016
Police estimated up to 1500 people were at the Six60 concert - which was being held in a courtyard space between flats, in the student district of Dunedin.
The balcony which collapsed was one of about eight overlooking the venue. It held up to 15 people who fell about three metres, and there were about 20 underneath.
One of two people badly hurt was taken to Christchurch Hospital for further treatment, while the other remained in a serious but stable condition in Dunedin Hospital on Saturday morning. Sixteen others treated were discharged, the hospital says.
Six60 tweeted that the band had continued to play on the advice of security and police.
"Very upset that people were hurt tonight. Massive thanks to the local police and security who were working with us to help keep people safe," the band tweeted.
Very upset that people were hurt tonight. Massive thanks to the local police and security who were working with us to help keep people safe.
— SIX60 (@SIX60) March 4, 2016
Police say Worksafe New Zealand will visit the site.
