Samuel Mataele is the winner of 2026 Kiri Te Kanawa Song Quest
Samuel Mataele, countertenor from Auckland, has been named the winner of the 2026 Kiri Te Kanawa Song Quest, Aotearoa New Zealand’s most prestigious opera competition, in a milestone year marking the competition’s 70th anniversary.
The winner Samuel Mataele and runner up Sarah Mileham were announced live on stage on Saturday 11 July at Wellington’s Michael Fowler Centre.
Alongside the title, Samuel received a $50,000 cash prize to support his professional development.
International Head Judge Frederica von Stade, one of the world’s most acclaimed mezzo-sopranos, praised the exceptional standard of this year’s six finalists.
“These remarkable young artists have already achieved something extraordinary by reaching the Grand Final of the Kiri Te Kanawa Song Quest. Throughout the competition, I have been deeply impressed not only by the beauty of their voices, but by their musicality, generosity of spirit, and the genuine gift each brings to their singing. They have all earned their place on this stage and should be immensely proud of what they have achieved. While exceptional technique and artistry are essential, it is the ability to truly connect with an audience that leaves a lasting impression. Each of tonight’s finalists has shown the passion, artistry and dedication that will carry them far, and I look forward to following their journeys in the years ahead.”
Runner-up Sarah Mileham received a $20,000 cash prize, while third-placed Samuel Downes was awarded $15,000. Fellow finalists Faamanu Fonoti-Fuimaono and Jordan Fonoti-Fuimaono each received prizes of $3,500 in recognition of their achievement.
The Kiri Te Kanawa Song Quest Grand Final Gala is widely regarded as one of the highlights of Aotearoa New Zealand’s classical music calendar, showcasing the country’s finest emerging operatic talent.
This year marked a new chapter for the iconic competition, which was presented as the Kiri Te Kanawa Song Quest for the first time. Since 1956, the Song Quest has helped nurture generations of New Zealand singers, including Dame Kiri Te Kanawa herself, Dame Malvina Major, Jonathan Lemalu, Phillip Rhodes, Amitai Pati and Filipe Manu.
Reflecting on the significance of the Song Quest and her own connection to the competition, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa said:
“Once again, it was an extraordinary evening celebrating New Zealand’s finest operatic talent. We congratulate all of the winners and wish them every success in their future careers. I won the Song Quest in 1965, and like so many others, it gave my career an enormous boost. From the very beginning, it has been the gold standard – the stage on which tomorrow’s stars shine brightly. Tonight, our winner, Samuel, and indeed every finalist, did exactly that. I look forward to seeing where your talent and dedication take you next.”
The next Kiri Te Kanawa Song Quest will take place in 2028.
The Kiri Te Kanawa Song Quest is produced by Tāwhiri Festivals and Experiences, with thanks to Principal Partner the Kiri Te Kanawa Foundation.
Photo Credit: Hagen Hopkins
