The Taite Music Prize is back for 2025, and nominations are now open.
Presented by IMNZ, this year’s categories include the main Taite Music Prize, the Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award, and the NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award.
The main prize celebrates the best New Zealand albums from the past year, with the winner receiving $12,500, thanks to founding partner Recorded Music NZ. A voting academy of IMNZ members, musicians, and industry professionals will decide the shortlist.
This year, Vera Ellen won the Taite Music Prize for her album Ideal Home Noise, released on Flying Nun Records. She followed Princess Chelsea, who took home the award the previous year for her album Everything Is Going to Be Alright.
Reflecting on the success of New Zealand’s independent musicians, IMNZ Chairperson Pippa Ryan-Kidd shared, “2024 was a year of significant achievements for our independent musicians, who excelled in their musical releases, awards, and tours.
“The Taite Music Prize is testament to Aotearoa’s thriving Arts Culture – both with Creators and Audience. IMNZ is immensely proud to support and contribute to the work of our diverse and vibrant Independent artists and it’s so great to see them kicking goals – whether it’s Vera Ellen playing all the Australian dates with Crowded House, or Princess Chelsea touring all over the USA with The Beths.”
Recorded Music NZ CEO Jo Oliver added, “We are very proud to continue to support the Taite Music Prize and celebrate the artistic excellence of the independent music sector in Aotearoa.”
This year’s awards ceremony will kick off NZ Music Month on April 15th, 2025.
The Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award highlights emerging talent, recognising debut albums or EPs (minimum four tracks) from IMNZ members. This year’s winner was Jujulipps for her debut EP Get That Shot, released via Bigpop Records.
The awards’ selection process involves a voting academy that creates the shortlist, with an independent panel deciding the winners.
The ceremony will also include other awards, such as the Independent Music NZ Classic Record Award, the NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award, and the Independent Spirit Award.
For eligibility details and how to nominate, click here. Nominations close at 5pm on Friday, January 31st, 2025.
Taite Music Prize 2025
For the full detail on specific eligibility and nomination forms please visit: www.indies.co.nz
Nominations for the Taite Music Prize close at 5pm on Tuesday, 31st January 2025
Tuesdya, April 15th
Q Theatre, Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland