Record Entries + Increased Prizes Set The Stage for the 2026 MLT NZ Gold Guitar Awards

The 2026 MLT NZ Gold Guitar Awards are shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet, with 862 entries confirmed for this year’s competition.

Held over King’s Birthday Weekend in Gore, the prestigious awards will run across three days of auditions, culminating in a series of highly anticipated finals. The Junior and Intermediate Finals will take place on Saturday evening, followed by the Classic Finals on Sunday afternoon, and the Senior Finals on Sunday evening.

The MLT NZ Gold Guitar Awards are a cornerstone of the 10-day Tussock Country Music Festival, New Zealand’s largest country music festival, drawing performers and fans from across the country and beyond.

Last year’s Senior Overall Winner, Keily Smith, described her winning as a defining moment in her career. “Winning the Gold Guitar was my biggest achievement yet,” she said. “Recording my debut single was an incredible highlight, and attending the Tamworth Country Music Festival in January as part of my prize was an unforgettable experience.”

The Gore Country Music Club, which proudly presents the Gold Guitar Awards, has further strengthened its commitment to emerging artists this year by significantly increasing prize packages across all categories.

MLT NZ Gold Guitar Committee Convenor Philip Geary said the enhancements reflect a strong desire to better support performers. “We’re thrilled that, with the backing of the Gore Country Music Club, we’re able to put more money forward for our winners,” he said. “It’s about investing in their future and helping them take the next steps in their musical journeys.”

In a major boost, the 2026 Senior Overall Winner will receive $5,000 in cash, alongside an extensive prize package designed to support career development in the country music industry.

With high entry numbers, enhanced prizes, and a packed programme of events, the 2026 MLT NZ Gold Guitar Awards promise to deliver an unforgettable celebration of country music talent in the heart of Gore.

Tickets for the finals are now on sale and can be purchased at goldguitars.co.nz.