Taite Music Prize: IMNZ Names The Mint Chicks Classic Record 2026

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

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
– 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, Director of 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)
Bub – Can’t Even (Independent)
Geneva AM – Pikipiki (Independent)

Independent Music NZ Classic Record

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

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
Flynn Robson, Rosa Nevison & Sam Elliott – Newzician Magazine
Hunter Keane – Long Player, 95bFM

The 2026 Taite Music Prize ceremony will be held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), and for the first time in its history, the event is open to the public. Tickets are available now via https://indies.co.nz.

Alongside live performances throughout the event, Sarah Thomson will return as our cornerstone MC, to guide the ceremony with reliable clarity, refreshing humour and elegant poise.

Alongside the main Taite Music Prize, the ceremony will celebrate:

– Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award
– NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award
– Independent Music NZ Classic Record Award
– Independent Spirit Award, acknowledging individuals or organisations making a lasting impact on the independent music community. This award is determined by the Board of IMNZ.

This year’s announcements reflect the creativity, diversity, and excellence shaping Aotearoa’s music industry, honouring both emerging talent and the legacy of those who continue to inspire.