The orchestra will travel only as far south as Christchurch and Dunedin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) manager Philippa Harris said it would hit the city’s musicians and concertgoers hard.
"That is really disappointing."
As the national orchestra there was an expectation it toured to centres like Dunedin as it had done for many years.
New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) acting chief executive Kirsten Mason said the orchestra was sorry not to be bringing any concerts to Dunedin next year.
"We are as disappointed with this outcome as we know our supporters and audience members will be — and we acknowledge that this is far from ideal."
The decision to reduce touring was made due to rising costs and the need to build back revenue to pre Covid-19 levels, she said.
"I am happy to say that the orchestra will definitely be back in Dunedin in 2026 with concerts and community and education activities."
Ms Harris said the orchestra performed in June and provided many social and cultural benefits to the city.
"[DSO players] are going to lose that opportunity to be inspired and learn from the very best."
The NZSO had the ability to provide something to Dunedin that no-one else could.
As a fulltime orchestra, the NZSO was in a "unique" position to perform large symphonic works with top artists, Ms Harris said.
"It is the concert-going public that really loses out. On the other hand, it’s our players, it’s our learning players."
Musicians in the city also had the chance to be taught by NZSO players when the orchestra visited.
