Auckland Philharmonia 2026 Season — Now on Sale!

Kōkako Award

Are you a budding songwriter and/or performer? Enter the Kōkako Award and you could perform with the Auckland Philharmonia in December 2026!

Who can apply?
Children aged 15 and under, with an original song ready to perform!

What's the prize?

The winner will have their song arranged for full orchestra, to perform in Auckland Phil's Tunes 4 Tamariki Kirihimete concert.

How can you enter?
Entry is simple. Fill in the form below and send us a video of you performing an original song - make sure to read all the criteria first to give yourself the best chance.

What happens next?
Once applications close, we’ll select a max of 5 finalists and invite them to a workshop in Auckland where they can meet their fellow songwriters, learn new skills and showcase their song in person. The next day, the finalists will be invited to the 2026 NZ Children’s Music Awards, where we will announce the winner.

Applications close at 5pm on Friday 1 May.

Finalists Workshop: Approx 11am - 1.30pm, Saturday 27 June 2026, VENUE TBC, Auckland
NZ Childrens Music Awards: Sunday 28 June 2026, Tuning Fork/Spark Arena, Auckland

The Kōkako Award is part of NZ Children’s Music Awards, as is produced in partnership with Kiwi Kids Music and Auckland Philharmonia. 

APPLY HERE

EXPENSES

Travel and accommodation costs for the finalists will be arranged by Kiwi Kids Music and are outlined in the terms and conditions. The winner will also have their travel and accomodation costs covered when they are required to travel back to Auckland as part of their prize pack, to perform with the Auckland Philharmonia.

FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS
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