Run by Arts Murihiku and presented every two years, the awards celebrate individuals, groups and communities who contribute to Southland’s thriving arts sector.
Across nine categories, more than 90 nominations were received and Arts Murihiku chair Becs Amundsen said this reflected the dedication to arts in Southland.
"The nominations highlighted everything from emerging young talent through to organisations and individuals who have dedicated decades to supporting and growing the arts."
The awards recognise achievements across the arts including creative excellence, community catalyst, leadership in the arts, leadership in arts education, emerging talent, production excellence, patronage, lifetime achievement and He Tohu Kia Mau ki Nga Taonga Tuku Iho.
This year, the judging panel included Deborah Wai Kapohe, Sara Litchfield and Rob Cloughley.
Judges selected between four to six finalists for each category, a task Ms Amundsen said was not easy.
"The judges were impressed not only by the calibre of work being undertaken across Murihiku, but also the diversity of people contributing to our arts community."
The strength and impact of these awards came from the number of people they recognised across all different facets of art and creativity, she said.
"Not everyone who makes a difference stands in the spotlight. Categories such as production excellence acknowledge the people working behind the scenes."
Supporters of arts also get recognition with the patronage award, which goes to a business or individual who supports the arts through sponsorship, encouragement or advocacy.
"Together, these awards celebrate the entire creative ecosystem that makes the arts possible."
This year’s event will be held at the Ascot Park hotel on Saturday, August 15. Tickets are available through the Arts Murihiku website.
2026 finalists
Southland Express Patronage award: Awarded to a business or sponsor who has consistently supported the arts through support, patronage, collaboration and encouragement.
Stephane Fabre, Nicola McGilvray, Jordan Cossill, Craigs Design N Print, Brent Knight, McCullochs Architects
The Hits Production excellence: Awarded to an individual who displays excellent dedication and skills in helping bring an artistic endeavour to the public behind the scenes.
Tony Parish, Jersey Rhein, Deow, Chris Herman, Brian Pay, Dwayne Carey
Sono Sound Lifetime Achievement: Awarded to a person or group who has consistently shared their time, energy, knowledge and skill for the betterment of the Arts in Murihiku.
Darren Ludlow, Maxine Treweek, Phil Geary, Sue Donkin, Steve Gooding, Angela Newell
Leadership in the Arts: Awarded to an individual who has voluntarily steered groups or individuals to success and has inspired and empowered those around them through leadership, management or administration.
Tania Carron, Deow Owen, Trinity Waddell, Michelle Lange, Ingrid Campbell, Angela Newell
Southland Arts Society Leadership in Arts Education: Awarded to an individual, group or institution who displays passionate, innovative and accessible education in the arts.
Reanda Gerber, Sarah Rae, Out of School Music, Bella Williams, Katherine Buess, Lyn Grove
Emerging talent: Awarded to an individual in Years 9-13 who displays great talent and skill in their field and who is working towards a future in the arts.
Lachie McGregor, Lara Kerr, Olivia Scarlett, Neve Rigg-Rissman
ELM Marketing Creative Excellence Award: Awarded to a person or group who has shown skill, creativity, innovation and mastery in their field.
Amber Timpany, Brian Johnston, Tahla Ward, Ron Mitchell, Majestic Frog
Community Trust South Community Catalyst Award: Awarded to a person or group that has made significant contributions to fostering a sense of community and connection within the Murihiku arts scene.
Steph Mac, Miharo, Rewoven Therapy, Team at IPAG/He Waka Tuia, Southern District Arts Trust, Out of School Music
He tohu kia mau ki nga taonga tuku iho: Awarded to a group or individual who is independently pursuing the reclamation, preservation and celebration of te ao Māori in their practice. Awarded to those who hold on to, maintain and develop those treasures and knowledge handed down from our ancestors.
Danielle Tipuna, Miharo, Tonihi Whanau & Ngā Herenga Waka Kapa Haka, He Wai Apakura — Te Ara Pounamu (The River’s Lament — A Pathway of Treasures)
