Applications have opened for the 2018 Waiata Māori Music Awards.

There are 10 award categories, including Best Māori Pop Album, Song, Songwriter, Music Video and Traditional Album. Past winners include Maisey Rika, Six60, Rei, Maaka Fiso, Teeks, Stan Walker and Sons of Zion.

Taking place annually in September in Hawkes Bay, the awards seek to recognize, develop and encourage the accomplishments of Māori composers. The awards ceremony celebrates diversity and excellence of Māori Music in Aotearoa and will feature performances from current and past finalists and winners.

Entries close on July 13, and the awards ceremony will take place on September 14. For more information and to enter online click here.