Gig Guide
Simon Thompson has won the top prize at the country music awards that matter.
The Senior MLT NZ Gold Guitar Award went to Thompson over King's Birthday Weekend, along with $5,000 cash, a fully produced single, and a trip to the 2027 Tamworth Country Music Festival in Australia.
"I am beyond elated. Stupid eyes keep leaking. I am overwhelmed and over joyed all in the same breath," Thompson said. "It means the little boy who sits inside me who had a dream to follow his music star can now finally silence the voice inside of him about not being good enough. He can finally go to sleep knowing he is good enough and deserves this."
The three-day event drew more than 850 entries across Junior, Intermediate, Classic and Senior categories. Isobel Stevens won the Junior Overall award, Grier Goodall took Intermediate Overall, and Jacinta Kerepeti claimed Classic Overall.
But the weekend's biggest moments came during Sunday's ceremonies. Glen Moffatt and Kaylee Bell were inducted into the Hands of Fame — one of New Zealand country music's highest honours — before a near-capacity stadium crowd.
Dame Lynda Topp received the Country Music Honour Award for the Topp Twins' contribution to country music. Dame Lynda delivered a moving speech paying tribute to her twin sister, Dame Jools Topp, who died last week.
For Thompson, the win validates years of chasing a childhood dream. "It means that anyone who may follow in my footsteps can do it with a head held high. Dreams can and do come true."
NZ Gold Guitar Committee Convenor Philip Geary said the talent on display was outstanding. "What we've witnessed over this weekend has been something really special. The talent, passion, and commitment shown by all competitors has been outstanding, and it's been wonderful to see artists of all ages take to the stage and share their love of country music."
Event Manager Vanessa Harvey said the atmosphere across the entire event was fantastic. "With more than 850 entries, multiple finals, and an outstanding level of competition, the atmosphere across the entire event has been fantastic. It's been incredibly rewarding to see the support from contestants, families, audiences, sponsors, and volunteers."
The awards were created to celebrate excellence in country music performance while providing artists with opportunities to grow and perform on a national stage.