Step into a night of glitz, glamour, and incredible music at the Country Music Honours, where Aotearoa’s finest songwriters take centre stage.
This prestigious event, held as part of the Bayleys Tussock Country Music Festival, brings together artists, industry professionals, and fans for an unforgettable evening of celebration and live entertainment. The Honours event features live performances from the top 10 unrecorded finalists of the 2025 MLT Songwriting Award, as well as the year’s standout recorded songs competing for the highly coveted APRA AMCOS Best Country Music Song - an honour previously awarded to icons like Tami Neilson, Delaney Davidson, and Holly Arrowsmith.
In 2025, the Honours was even more special with a guest appearance from country music legend Tami Neilson, a household name and lifelong ambassador of the genre. Set against the backdrop of a glamorous evening, the celebration began with complimentary drinks and nibbles in the theatre foyer, where guests could soak up the excitement as finalists walk the red carpet. Then, people were seated for a night of unforgettable performances, powerful storytelling, and well-deserved accolades, as we honoured Aotearoa New Zealand’s brightest country music stars.
Full show featuring finalist performances and presentations for:
Join us for a spectacular evening where country music takes centre stage!
2025 Award Recipients
MLT Songwriting Award 2025
This year, Nicola Mitchell, Byllie-Jean & Theia won the MLT Songwriting Award with their song 'Wā/Time'.
Through nostalgic tales, the song reflects on the passage of time and the emotional weight of growing up - when the carefree magic of childhood gradually gives way to self-imposed pressure.
APRA Best Country Song 2025
2025 winner of the APRA Best Country Song was Holly Arrowsmith with her song 'Blue Dreams'.
‘Blue Dreams’ delves into life as a first-time parent, surviving those early days of chronic exhaustion while managing the huge burden of responsibility, bringing life into such a turbulent world.
Contribution to Country Music
Tami Neilson was our inaugural winner of the Contribution to Country Music in Aotearoa Award.
Recognised for her powerful impact on Aotearoa’s country music scene, Tami Neilson has long championed emerging artists. A surprise tribute video moved many to tears, featuring messages from Jesse Mulligan, fellow artists, her brother Todd, and Willie Nelson.
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