On the carpet at the Taite Music Prize, an independent spirit was clear.
The dress code for the event is unspecific and eclectic.
Last night, artists, industry professionals, music fans and politicians gathered in everything from jeans and band tees, to evening dresses and opulent fur coats to
Presented by Independent Music New Zealand, the awards – named after the late Liverpudlian/New Zealand music journalist Dylan Taite – celebrate top albums from independent artists in Aotearoa.
Alongside musicians, journalists are also recognised for their contributions to the industry – this year music magazine Newzician took home an award.
At the ceremony, an absent Marlon Williams was awarded the Taite Music Prize for his album Te Whare Tīwekaweka (he accepted the award via video as he is currently in Europe on tour). However, Geneva AM was in attendance to accept the Taite Music Prize for Independent Debut, for her album Pikipiki. She read a poem titled I’m From The Future to an attentive audience.
On the black carpet, attendees similarly took the opportunity to showcase the places their artistry came from, drawing on aesthetics to support their distinct sounds and draw attention to their albums.
Bic Runga and Kody Nielson.
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Taite Music Prize 2025 winner Mokotron.
Simeon Kavanagh-Vincent, Crystal Choi and drummer Alex Freer of Taite-nominated band Phoebe Rings.
Songwriter Isla Noon.
Taite Music Prize 2025 winner Byllie Jean.
Best Independent debut Taite Music Prize nominee Babe Martin.
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Best Independent Debut Taite Music Prize winner 2026 Geneva AM (left), with guest.
Priya Sami of BUB and Princess Chelsea.
Hunter Keane, host of bFM’s The Long Player, and Issey Ingham.
Outstanding Music Journalism Taite Music Prize winners Sam Elliott, Rosa Nevison and Flynn Robson.
Taite-nominated Jazmine Mary.
Tiare Kelly and Erny Belle.
KOMMI, who accepted the main award on behalf of Marlon Williams.
The Mint Chicks, celebrating their win for Classic Record Award.
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