Country Music Honours
Step into a night of glitz, glamour, and incredible music at the Country Music Honours, where Aotearoa’s finest country musicians 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 Country Music Honours shine a spotlight on the best in original country music, championing both emerging songwriters and established artists.
2025 Guest Artist - Tami Neilson
The 2025 Country Music Honours will be extra special with a guest appearance from New Zealand country music royalty, Tami Neilson. A household name and lifelong champion of the genre, Tami’s presence will make this an unforgettable night.
From being cradled as a baby in the arms of Roy Orbison to performing a duet with Willie Nelson, Tami’s journey reads like a country music dream. But behind the highlights is a story of grit and passion. Raised on the road with The Neilson Family Band, she grew up busking in small-town Ontario, singing gospel to prisoners, and racing down the Trans-Canada Highway in an exploding RV—on her way to open for Johnny Cash at just 18 years old, in her pyjamas. Now, as one of the most powerful voices in country music, Tami brings her extraordinary talent and storytelling to Gore for one very special night. Don’t miss it!
The heart of the night is centred around two of New Zealand’s most coveted country music awards.
MLT Songwriting Award
Celebrating unreleased, unrecorded songs, the MLT Songwriting Award is a platform for songwriters to share their craft in its purest form.
Each year, aspiring and seasoned songwriters from across New Zealand submit their original compositions, with the top 10 finalists selected to perform their songs live at the Country Music Honours. This award is about more than just recognition - it’s about discovery and opportunity, giving songwriters the chance to have their music heard, celebrated, and potentially recorded by industry professionals.
APRA AMCOS Best Country Song
This prestigious award recognises the best commercially released country song of the year - one that has resonated with audiences, showcased exceptional songwriting, and made a lasting impact on New Zealand’s country music scene.
Previous winners include some of the genre’s most respected names, such as Tami Neilson, Delaney Davidson, and Matt Joe Gow. This award acknowledges not only the song itself but the artistry, storytelling, and musicianship behind it, making it one of the highest honours in New Zealand country music.
The Country Music Honours (formerly named the New Zealand Country Music Awards) are presented by the NZ Songwriter's Trust in association with the Mataura Licensing Trust and APRA Music.
A Red-Carpet Experience Like No Other
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be swept up in the magic of the evening. Sip on complimentary drinks and enjoy delicious nibbles as you mingle in the theatre foyer, where anticipation builds while finalists walk the red carpet. Then, take your seat for an incredible showcase of live performances, heartfelt speeches, and well-deserved accolades, as we honour the artists shaping the future of New Zealand country music. Whether you’re a devoted country music fan, a supporter of homegrown songwriting, or simply looking for an exceptional night out, the Country Music Honours promises to be an unmissable highlight of the festival.
