*KKM = Kiwi Kids Music
*Auckland Phil = Auckland Philharmonia
SUBMISSIONS
Video Requirements:
State your name, age, town/city in New Zealand and the title of your song (e.g. “I am Jane, age 11 from Christchurch, performing ‘Song Title’”).
Eligibility:
- Entries close Friday 1 May 2026. KKM and Auckland Phil reserve the right to extend this date.
- The performer must be 15 years old or under at the time of entry and a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.
- Only one entry per performer and/or songwriter is allowed. Parent/caregiver permission is required.
Song Requirements:
- The judging panel is seeking the best performance of the best original song.
- The song may be written by the performer or by someone else (any age), but must be performed by a child aged 15 or under.
- Songs may be in any genre but must not contain explicit content. Appropriateness is at the judges’ discretion.
- The submitted song must be original and unreleased. Covers or re-releases are not accepted.
- If performing a song not written or co-written by the entrant, permission from the songwriter/co-songwriter is required.
- Solo performances only. No groups or multi-artist submissions.
Performance Format:
Entrants may perform a cappella, with a backing track, or while playing an instrument. Someone else may provide instrumental accompaniment if preferred.
Music Rights:
If the entrant wins, the songwriter grants Auckland Phil the right to arrange the song for live orchestral performance.
The song will not be professionally recorded or publicly released, though live video and/or audio of the winning performance will be captured.
Workshops & Attendance:
Finalists must be available for:
- A singing and performance workshop hosted by KKM and Auckland Phil.
- The Kōkako Award workshop – Saturday 27 June 2026.
- The 2026 NZ Children’s Music Awards – Sunday 28 June 2026, at Tuning Fork/Spark Arena, Auckland.
The winner must also be available to perform with Auckland Phil at two Tunes 4 Tamariki Christmas shows in December 2026 (dates TBC).
Travel Support:
- KKM will contribute travel costs: up to $250 for finalists from the North Island, up to $500 for finalists from the South Island.
- Auckland-region finalists do not receive travel support.
- Transport will be coordinated with finalists.
- Up to $1000 will be covered for costs associated with the winner’s prize, including transport, accommodation and other necessary expenses.
Publicity Requirements:
Finalists and the winner must provide a photo/headshot for PR and may be required to take part in 2026 NZ Children’s Music Awards media activity.
Other Conditions:
- Lobbying of judges is strictly prohibited and may result in disqualification.
- If a song or performance is deemed ineligible, entrants will be notified and given 48 hours to request a review.
- Once submitted, entries cannot be changed.
THE PRIZE
- All finalists receive a certificate acknowledging their exceptional talent and participation.
- The winner’s song will be arranged by the Auckland Phil and performed with the orchestra at the Tunes 4 Tamariki Christmas concerts in December 2026.
- A live video and/or audio recording will be made.
- The winner receives:
- A trophy
- A certificate
- A $500 voucher to support their ongoing musical development
- Significant positive PR as part of the 2026 NZ Children’s Music Awards
The Kōkako Award is more than a prize—it’s a unique journey into music and performance. We look forward to creating unforgettable memories at the 2026 NZ Children’s Music Awards!