The finalists for the 2026 Pacific Music Awards have been announced, marking another milestone for one of the most important cultural institutions in the Pacific music world.
Now celebrating its 22nd year, the awards continue to showcase the remarkable depth, diversity, and creativity of Pacific artists across Aotearoa New Zealand and the wider Moana region. This year’s finalists were revealed at the Mangere Arts Centre, with 33 artists recognized across 13 categories.
Leading the nominations are Porirua-based trio A.R.T and R&B performer Sam V, each representing a new generation of Pacific musicians who are finding audiences far beyond their home communities.
A.R.T received five nominations, including Best Pacific Group, Best Pacific Language Artist, Best Pacific Soul/R&B Artist, Best Pacific Music Video, and Best Pacific Music Album. Their recent releases have demonstrated a willingness to experiment with new sounds while remaining connected to their Pacific roots.
Sam V also earned five nominations, including Best Pacific Male Artist, Best Pacific Soul/R&B Artist, Best Pacific Song, Best Pacific Music Album, and Best Producer. His growing success reflects the increasing presence of Pacific artists within New Zealand’s contemporary music scene.
What makes the Pacific Music Awards particularly significant is that they recognize something larger than commercial success. Since the awards were established in 2005, they have provided a platform for Pacific voices, languages, stories, and traditions to be heard by wider audiences.
The awards grew from a vision developed by the Pacific Music Awards Committee in 2004. Their goal was straightforward but ambitious: to celebrate excellence in Pacific music, acknowledge the achievements of Pacific artists, and encourage younger generations to pursue their own creative ambitions.
Over the past two decades, the awards have helped launch careers, preserve Pacific languages through music, and demonstrate that Pacific culture remains a living and evolving force rather than something confined to history books or museums.