New Zealand Music Month
New Zealand Music Month is a vibrant celebration of Kiwi music. It highlights the talent of local artists and encourages everyone to explore the diverse sounds that shape the nation's musical identity.
Celebrate local Kiwi talent and drive engagement through live events, streaming promotions, and user-generated content during May's dedicated music month.
- Share your favorite NZ artist discovery on social media with #NZMusicMonth
- Host a live listening party featuring emerging Kiwi musicians and exclusive merchandise giveaways
- Partner with streaming platforms to create curated playlists and drive artist discovery campaigns
- Sponsor local venue concerts and promote ticket sales through influencer partnerships
New Zealand Music Month started as a response to the growing need for local music to gain more recognition. In the late 1990s, local artists struggled to get their music played on mainstream radio.
The New Zealand Music Commission, along with APRA AMCOS and the Recording Industry Association of New Zealand, noticed this gap.
They decided to create an event that would encourage radio stations to play more Kiwi music, thus giving artists a better chance to reach listeners.
The first Music Month, launched in May 2001, saw a significant increase in local music airplay. It wasn’t just about radio, though. Live performances, events, and promotions across the country brought local music into the spotlight.
Over the years, it has grown into a well-established tradition, with schools, libraries, and communities joining in. The initiative also paved the way for many emerging artists, giving them a platform to showcase their work.
Today, New Zealand Music Month continues to thrive, celebrating the rich and diverse sounds that make up the nation’s musical landscape.
Host a Kiwi Music Party
Why not throw a party with a playlist featuring only New Zealand artists? Gather friends, grab some snacks, and dance to tunes by local legends. Discovering new favorites while celebrating the country’s musical talent will make for a memorable night. Don’t forget to mix in some classic hits to keep everyone singing along!
Attend a Live Gig
Nothing beats the thrill of a live performance. Check out local venues for concerts happening during the month. Supporting emerging talent or established stars in person adds extra excitement to the celebration. It’s also a great way to soak up the atmosphere and connect with fellow music lovers.
Explore New Zealand Music Online
Dive into streaming platforms and search for playlists featuring Kiwi musicians. Explore different genres, from indie rock to soulful ballads. If a particular artist catches the ear, consider buying their album or merchandise to show support. A deep dive into New Zealand’s musical world will reveal many hidden gems.
Learn a Song by a Kiwi Artist
For those with a musical streak, why not learn to play or sing a song by a local artist? Pick up that dusty guitar, or warm up those vocal cords. This could be a fun challenge, and who knows, it might even spark a newfound appreciation for the artist’s craft. Sharing the final performance with friends or on social media could also inspire others to join in.
Share the Love on Social Media
Get Social! Post about favorite New Zealand tracks or artists on social media. Sharing a playlist, music video, or a short review can help spread the word. Tag the artists and use the #NZMusicMonth hashtag to connect with others celebrating this special time. The more, the merrier!