A night in the Labyrinth: Massey Wellington ball

After three long years without an end-of-year ball, Massey students finally had the chance to let loose at the Labyrinth Ball — and they did not hold back.  

Around 260 guests were greeted outside the Great Hall by fire performers and go-go dancers on September 27th. While the lobby shimmered with all things Labyrinth: flickering candles, silver draped mirrors, lace fans, and flower crowns. It was like stepping straight into a fantasy film set. 

Under the foliage archway, students twirled, posed, and embraced the theme — some in full Jennifer Connelly and David Bowie cosplay, others in glamorous dresses and sharp suits. 

Wellington vice president Takunda Mabonga threw himself into the night so enthusiastically he walked away with a bruised chin from doing the worm too much. 

“For the first time in my life, I felt severely underdressed, and my cowboy hat wasn’t the main attraction.”  

Inside, conga lines snaked across the dance floor while guests sipped on Hoggle’s peach and Goblin king’s blood cocktails. The student DJ club kept the energy high, swapping in and out to fuel the crowd.  

The Wellington ball committee. Photos / Supplied

Clubs’ and events coordinator Hannah Isaac was impressed with the turnout, saying it proved the Wellington campus is still alive.  

“It was amazing, students really embraced the unique theme.” 

The evening’s Sarah and Jareth — Quinn Isabella and Kahu Allan were crowned best dressed.  

While Albany’s ball was cancelled for low ticket sales, Welly’s ball stellar turnout suggests the ball tradition should be here to stay.