Miley Cyrus concert ban blamed on 'morals'

Miley Cyrus has defended the raunchy aspects of her upcoming New Zealand concert. Photo/Getty

The Dominican Republic government commission that oversees public performances is banning a September 13 concert by Miley Cyrus on morality grounds.

That's less than a month before Cyrus is due in New Zealand on her Bangerz world tour, at Vector Arena on October 8.

The commission said in a statement that it took the action because Cyrus often "undertakes acts that go against morals and customs, which are punishable by Dominican law".

Tickets ranging from US$27 to $370 for the concert in the capital have been on sale since July.

Critics have declared Cyrus' onstage antics, including twerking, crotch-grabbing and occasional drug references, as vulgar.

Her upcoming New Zealand show in October has been branded as "porn" by Family First spokesman Bob McCoskrie.

"Parents should save their money, protect their children and expose them to the far more positive messages of celebrating their achievements, their personality and their uniqueness," he said.

Cyrus has hit back at criticisms, saying her show is empowering for fans.

"The sexual aspect of our show isn't targeted at men ... It's what women think is sexy and cool and strong," she told NZ Herald supplement TimeOut.

A representative for Cyrus did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Concert organisers in the Dominican Republic did not comment on the ban.

The commission in the past has banned songs it considers vulgar from the airwaves, including some by Calle 13 of Puerto Rico.

- AP with AAP and nzherald.co.nz