The Apothecary Diaries author Natsu Hyuuga has withdrawn from her planned in-person appearance at Overload NZ after revealing that she is currently hospitalized. The New Zealand anime and manga convention is scheduled for September 26 and 27, 2026, with Hyuuga originally announced as one of its guests.
The official The Apothecary Diaries account announced the cancellation on September 21, explaining that Hyuuga’s health would take priority. Hyuuga later addressed fans herself, saying that she remains hospitalized and that her blood test results are “not yet fully satisfactory.” She apologized to those who had been waiting to meet her.
Despite the cancellation, Hyuuga will still participate remotely. Her planned appearance has been changed to an online Q&A session, allowing convention attendees to interact with her through a live video connection.
Signed Book Sessions Will Also Change
The cancellation also affects the planned book hand-over sessions. Fans who had already booked those sessions will instead receive an autographed card personally signed by Hyuuga, along with an original sticky note featuring The Apothecary Diaries artwork. The Overload committee is expected to contact affected attendees with additional information.
Overload NZ confirmed Hyuuga as a guest for its 2026 event, which will take place at the New Zealand International Convention Centre in Auckland.
Hyuuga’s health update comes shortly before a major period for The Apothecary Diaries. Season 3 is scheduled to begin its first cour on October 2, 2026, with the second cour following in April 2027. The franchise will also receive its first theatrical film in December, featuring an original story written by Hyuuga.
Fans can therefore still expect Hyuuga to take part in the upcoming online convention session, while the priority remains her recovery.
