All about the
Taite Music Prize
2026
Announcing the TAITE MUSIC PRIZE 2026
IMNZ CLASSIC RECORD 2026 RECIPIENT
The Mint Chicks - Crazy? Yes! Dumb? No!
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FINALISTS FOR THE
AUCKLAND LIVE BEST INDEPENDENT DEBUT AWARD
Babe Martin - Not a Bee, but a Wasp (Sunreturn)
Bub - Can't Even (Independent)
Geneva AM - PIKIPIKI (Independent)
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FINALISTS FOR THE
NZ ON AIR OUTSTANDING MUSIC JOURNALISM AWARD
CHRIS CUDBY - undertheradar.co.nz Release Roundups
FLYNN ROBSON, ROSA NEVISON & SAM ELLIOTT - Newzician Magazine
HUNTER KEANE - Long Player, 95bFM
These coveted honours will be presented at the official
Taite Music Prize Award Ceremony
Wednesday, 29 April at Tāmaki Makaurau’s NZICC.
Tickets Available HERE
Independent Music New Zealand (IMNZ) is thrilled to announce the finalists and key award categories for the 2026 Taite Music Prize – Aotearoa’s premier celebration of independent music. Now in its 17th year, the Prize continues to highlight albums of depth, vision, and artistic integrity, while honouring the creative contributions of emerging and established artists, journalists, and industry figures.
“The Taite Music Prize celebrates creativity at its core – honouring artists whose music challenges, inspires and reflects the many voices of Aotearoa. We’re especially excited that this year, for the first time, the public can join us in celebrating the artists and albums that make our music community so special,” says Pippa Ryan-Kidd, Chairperson, IMNZ.
Auckland Live Best Independent Debut 2026 Finalists
Celebrating the freshest independent talent in Aotearoa, this award recognises outstanding debut albums or EPs released in the previous year. Winners receive:
- $2,000 cash prize, thanks to Auckland Live
- A performance opportunity with Auckland Live
- A studio recording package worth $1,200 courtesy of Parachute Studios
Eligibility is limited to IMNZ members, and releases must contain at least four original songs and be primarily New Zealand-owned. Both solo artists and groups are welcome, provided they meet residency or citizenship requirements.
The judging panel considers creativity, originality, and the overall impact of a debut release on Aotearoa’s music scene. Past winners have gone on to achieve national acclaim and significant international touring success. Daniel Clarke, Directorof Auckland Live, says, "The Auckland Live Best Independent Debut category celebrates the fresh talent and creative energy shaping the future of music in Aotearoa. This year’s finalists show just how vibrant and diverse our music community is, and it’s exciting to see artists at the beginning of their journeys being recognised in this way. We’re proud to support this award and the important role it plays in championing independent artists and their stories."
The 2026 finalists for the Auckland Live Best Independent Debut are:
Babe Martin – Not a Bee, but a Wasp (Sunreturn)
Babe Martin is the musical project of Tāmaki Makaurau songwriter Zoë Larsen Cumming. Her EP Not a Bee, but a Wasp pairs velvet-voiced vocals with intimate, piano- and violin-led arrangements.
Bub – Can't Even (Independent)
Bub is the Tāmaki Makaurau band led by Priya Sami alongside Daniel Barrett, DavidHarris, and Joe Kaptein. Their 2025 debut album blends doo-wop harmonies with post-punk edge and sharp pop songwriting.
Geneva AM – PIKIPIKI (Independent)
Geneva AM is the musical project of Tāmaki Makaurau producer and vocalist Geneva Alexander-Marsters (Ngāti Ruapani mai Waikaremoana, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairoa, Aitutaki, Palmerston). Her bilingual songwriting bridges contemporary electronic production with waiata traditions.
Independent Music NZ Classic Record 2026
Honouring the gold nuggets of New Zealand’s musical history, the Independent Music NZ Classic Record award recognises albums released at least 20 years ago on an independent label that have had a lasting impact on Aotearoa’s sound. Winners are selected by a panel of music journalists, radio staff, and industry experts, and the award is presented each year at the Taite Music Prize ceremony in Auckland.
This year, attention is drawn to The Mint Chicks’ landmark album, Crazy? Yes! Dumb? No!
One of Aotearoa’s most influential independent bands, The Mint Chicks forged a reputation for chaotic energy, inventive songwriting, and unforgettable live shows. Formed in Tāmaki Makaurau by brothers Kody and Ruban Nielson, with drummer Paul Roper and bassist Michael Logie, the band became renowned for their punk‑infused, unpredictable sound and fearless DIY ethos. Their visual identity was just as distinctive–album artwork, often designed by Ruban Nielson himself, became nearly as recognisable as the music, mirroring the band’s off-kilter creativity and cementing their place as one of the most aesthetically and sonically singular acts of their era.
Released in 2006 on Flying Nun Records and produced by Kody, Ruban, and their father Chris Nielson, Crazy? Yes! Dumb? No! is the band’s second full-length album. Recorded between Kody’s garage and Chris’s bedroom, the album earned five Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards in 2007 and achieved Gold status. Its jagged rhythms, audacious melodies, and uncompromising style have cemented its place as a classic of New Zealand music, inspiring a generation of artists and continues to resonate across the country’s independent music scene.
NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism 2026
Honouring journalists, bloggers, or editors who have made a real impact on Aotearoa’s music scene through their music coverage. This award celebrates ethical storytelling across audio, video, written, or podcast formats.
Judges look for work that:
- Offers fresh perspectives and creative storytelling
- Shows insightful analysis of artists, trends, or the industry
- Demonstrates influence and reach, engaging audiences nationally or internationally
- Highlights versatility, covering multiple formats and genres
The award recognises both emerging and established creatives who have produced innovative, transformative work and are committed to reporting on New Zealand musicians and the broader music industry.
The 2026 finalists for the NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism award are:
CHRIS CUDBY - undertheradar.co.nz Release Roundups
Chris Cudby has been editor of UnderTheRadar since 2017, shaping the site into an essential hub for independent music news, reviews, and discovery across Aotearoa. His Release Roundup column offers readers a consistent, knowledgeable weekly survey of new local and international releases. A musician (Power Nap, Golden Axe) and 95bFM broadcaster in his own right, Cudby brings a practitioner's ear to his criticism. He was previously nominated for this award in 2022 alongside Annabel Kean for UTR's Trash Recital video series.
FLYNN ROBSON, ROSA NEVISON, & SAM ELLIOTT - Newzician Magazine
Born from a shared love of live music and the Aotearoa scene, Newzician is an independent print magazine dedicated to in-depth coverage of local artists, music culture, and the communities that sustain them. Founded by three friends with deep roots in the local gig circuit, Newzician has carved out a distinct space for long-form music journalism at a time when it is increasingly rare. Now four issues in, the magazine champions a diverse range of New Zealand musicians alongside the venues, labels, and people who keep the scene alive.
HUNTER KEANE - Long Player, 95bFM
Hunter Keane is the host of 95bFM's weekly new release show Totally Wired, and the creator of Long Player -- a segment within the show dedicated to walking a local artist track-by-track through their latest album. Treating the record as an art form rather than a promotional vehicle, Long Player creates genuine space for Aotearoa artists to discuss their work in depth and in their own words. Keane's commitment to championing local music across all genres -- from emerging artists to established names -- has made Long Player one of the most distinctive and valuable platforms for new New Zealand music.
2026 Taite Music Prize Finalists
Independent Music NZ (IMNZ), in partnership with Founding Partner Recorded Music NZ, is proud to announce the ten finalists for the 2026 Taite Music Prize — Aotearoa’s premier celebration of independent album-making.
Spanning a wide range of genres and styles, this year’s awards celebrate purely artistic merit, showcasing how independent artists consistently punch above their weight. Historically, the Taite Music Prize has offered a lens into Aotearoa’s creative and cultural landscape, and the 2026 finalists reflect the creativity, ambition, and diversity of New Zealand’s music scene – offering a snapshot of the nation’s culture, ideas, and even its political climate as expressed through music.
Dick Move - Dream, Believe, Achieve — 1:12 Records & Flying Nun Records
Tāmaki Makaurau punk band’s second album delivers high-voltage garage punk with sharp social commentary. Endorsed by Iggy Pop on BBC Radio, and set to open for the Foo Fighters again in 2027.
Geneva AM PIKIPIKI — Independent
Tāmaki Makaurau beatmaker and vocalist’s debut album showcases a bilingual approach blending R&B and electronic influences. Winner of Te Tohu Puoro o te reo Māori at the 2023 Student Radio Network Awards.
Jazmine Mary - I Want to Rock and Roll — Flying Nun Records
Tāmaki Makaurau-based artist’s third album spans noir folk and alternative, with a visual and sonic world shaped by their performance art. Former Best Independent Debut winner, with national and international tours.
MĀ - Blame It On The Weather — Independent
Te Whanganui-a-Tara rapper and singer-songwriter’s second album explores personal and political themes across hip-hop, neo-soul, and jazz-infused tracks. Featured on the cover of SUNDAY magazine and performing at WOMADelaide 2026.
Marlon Williams - Te Whare Tīwekaweka — Marlon Williams Music
Ōtautahi-born artist’s fourth solo album, recorded entirely in te reo Māori, is a deeply personal folk work that topped the Official Aotearoa Music Charts.
Phoebe Rings - Aseurai — Carpark Records
Tāmaki Makaurau dream-pop project’s debut album blends lush synth textures with introspective songwriting, earning critical acclaim for its immersive soundscapes. Following a showcase at BIGSOUND 2025, the band toured the United States supporting The Beths.
Reb Fountain - How Love Bends — Fountain Records Limited
Tāmaki Makaurau songwriter’s sixth album refines noir-tinged indie rock into intimate, emotionally resonant tracks, with seven songs landing on the Hot 20 Aotearoa Singles Chart.
Ringlets - The Lord Is My German Shepherd (Time for Walkies) — Flying Nun Records
Tāmaki Makaurau post-punk outfit’s second album combines angular instrumentation with darkly humorous lyrics. Gained international attention at The UK’s Great Escape Festival and will open for the Foo Fighters in 2027.
Tom Scott - ANITYA — Years Gone By
The Tāmaki Makaurau artist’s first solo album blends experimental hip-hop and jazz into a spiritually reflective, genre-defying work. Widely acclaimed as a bold pivot from his previous projects.
Womb - One Is Always Heading Somewhere — Flying Nun Records
Te Whanganui-a-Tara sibling trio’s third album delivers expansive, atmospheric indie rock marked by emotional depth. Featured on NPR and spent three weeks on the Official Top 20 Aotearoa Albums.
Aotearoa’s Premier Independent Music Celebration Opens to the Public for the First Time
Tickets Available Now from https://indies.co.nz/
Now in its 17th year, the Taite Music Prize continues to honour albums of depth, vision, and artistic integrity, recognising work that transcends trends and contributes meaningfully to New Zealand’s cultural landscape.
This year marks a historic new chapter: the ceremony will be held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), and for the first time in its history, the event will be open to the public. Expanding into a new venue and welcoming a wider audience reflects the Prize’s commitment to sharing the celebration of independent music more extensively, while preserving the prestige and rigour that define the award.
Selected from albums released in the 2025 calendar year, these ten records represent the breadth, ambition, and creative excellence currently shaping Aotearoa’s independent music scene. The winning album will receive a $12,500 cash prize, courtesy of Recorded Music NZ.
“Each year we’re struck by the extraordinary depth and quality of album-making in Aotearoa. To recognise these ten outstanding works — and to now share that celebration with the wider community — is incredibly special,”says Dylan Pellett, General Manager, Independent Music NZ.
A voting academy comprising 1000 IMNZ members, musicians, and industry professionals determined this year’s shortlist. From there, an independent panel of artists, journalists, and industry experts will deliberate and select the ultimate winners – ensuring the final decision reflects both expertise and a diversity of perspective.
The Taite Music Prize ceremony will also present a suite of significant awards, including:
- Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award, recognising Aotearoa’s most exciting emerging talent
- NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award, celebrating excellence in music storytelling
- IMNZ Classic Record, honouring an album that has left an enduring mark on New Zealand’s musical history
- Independent Spirit Award, acknowledging individuals or organisations making a lasting impact on the independent music community
In the lead-up to the ceremony, finalists for the Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award and the NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award will be announced, as will the winners of the IMNZ Classic Record, recognising achievement across New Zealand’s independent music scene. The Independent Spirit Award recipient is revealed on the night.
Named in honour of the late Dylan Taite — one of New Zealand’s most respected music journalists, renowned for championing independent music with insight and integrity — the Taite Music Prize remains a testament to the enduring power of artistic vision and the cultural significance of album-making in Aotearoa.
Taite Music Prize
Presented by: Independent Music New Zealand (IMNZ)
Founding Partner: Recorded Music NZ
Official Partners: NZ On Air / The Taite whānau
Award Partner: Auckland Live
Supporting Partners: Parachute Studios / Garage Project / Media Arts Lawyers / NZ Music Commission / APRA AMCOS / Merlin / Loop
Media Partners: RNZ / 95bFM and the SRN network
Charity Partner: MusicHelps
2026 Finalists are...
Dick Move
Dream, Believe, Achieve — 1:12 Records & Flying Nun Records
Geneva AM
PIKIPIKI — Independent
Jazmine Mary
I Want to Rock and Roll — Flying Nun Records
MĀ
Blame It On The Weather — Independent
Marlon Williams
Te Whare Tīwekaweka — Marlon Williams Music
Phoebe Rings
Aseurai — Carpark Records
Reb Fountain
How Love Bends — Fountain Records Limited
Ringlets
The Lord Is My German Shepherd (Time for Walkies) — Flying Nun Records
Tom Scott
ANITYA — Years Gone By
Womb
One Is Always Heading Somewhere — Flying Nun Records
Taite Music Prize Information
Named after the late Dylan Taite, one of the country’s most highly respected music journalists, The Taite Music Prize‘s purpose is to recognise outstanding creativity for an entire collection of music contained on one album. The winner receives a cash prize of $12,500, to be spent as they wish – with thanks to Founding Partner of the Taite Music Prize, Recorded Music NZ.
Also recognised at the ceremony are the Independent Spirit Award; the Independent Music NZ Classic Record – acknowledging a defining NZ record from our yesteryear and the Auckland Live Best Independent Debut award – celebrating the freshest talent of Aotearoa. The winner receives a $2,000 cash prize and a performance or technical upskilling opportunity thanks to Auckland Live, PLUS a studio recording package worth $1200, thanks to Parachute Studios).
Announced in 2022 is the NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award - the first of its kind for Aotearoa New Zealand and comes with a $2500 cash prize, thanks to Official Partner, NZ On Air. Created in the spirit of legendary broadcaster Dylan Taite and to extend IMNZ’s mandate to celebrate those who give media space to New Zealand music, the ground-breaking addition celebrates a special individual who made a creative contribution and significant impact with coverage of Aotearoa music during the year.
The Independent Spirit award was created in 2019 to acknowledge those who have dedicated themselves to the wider NZ music community.
Wikipedia entry, Taite Music Prize: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taite_Music_Prize
Recipients of the Taite Music Prize
The Taite Music Prize highlights outstanding New Zealand albums released in the past year. The award is open to all genres of music and judged on artistic merit regardless of genre, sales, or record label.
Recipients of the Independent Music NZ Classic Record
This award acknowledges one New Zealand record released over 20 years ago on an independent label. These records, whether a 12”, a compilation, EP, or full-length album have become quintessential gold nuggets of our musical history. The annual recipient is determined by the judging panel.
Recipients of the Auckland Live Best Independent Debut
The Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award celebrates the freshest talent of Aotearoa. The winner receives a $2000 cash prize and a performance or technical upskilling opportunity thanks to Auckland Live, PLUS a studio recording package worth $1200, thanks to Parachute Studios.
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Recipients of the Independent Spirit Award
The Independent Spirit Award recognises and celebrates a New Zealander: someone who is passionate about NZ music; who’s ahead of the game in creativity, diversity, and imagination; and has dedicated themself to helping artists and the wider music community to grow and find their own unique pathways. The annual recipient is determined by the IMNZ Board.
2019 - Bernie Griffen
2020 - Murray Cammick ONZM
2021 - Pete Rainey & Glenn Common
2022 - Karyn Hay ONZM
2023 - Paul Huggins
2024 - Teremoana Rapley ONZM
2025 - Rohan Evans
Recipients of the NZ On Air Outstanding Journalism Award
The ground-breaking addition to the Taite Music Prize introduced in 2022 celebrates a special individual who made a creative contribution and significant impact with coverage of Aotearoa music in the previous calendar year. The winner receives a $2500 cash prize thanks to NZ On Air.
2022 - Tony Stamp - RNZ Music
2023 - Namnita Kumar & Nadia Freeman - Eastern Sound Stories podcast, in conjunction with Radio Active.FM
2024 - Cushla Dillon and Andrew Moore - directors, 'King Loser' documentary
2025 - Chris Schulz - Boiler Room