Aotearoa songwriters and composers were celebrated on October 14 at the 2026 APRA Silver Scroll Awards, the 61st occasion of the annual event also celebrating APRA’s 100th year representing Aotearoa songwriters and composers.
Staged in Auckland’s Aotea Centre Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, six awards were presented, with finalists and winners honoured alongside a variety of anniversary tributes. Listen to and learn more about the five Silver Scroll Award finalist songs here.
LALELEI, written by David Feauai-Afaese, Navakatoa Tekela-Pule, Levi Gemmell, Larsen Taylor, and performed by LEAO.
Bringing together classic Samoan garage with new-age production, LEAO synthesise Pacific nostalgia with the modern age. This is the first time a song written in Gagana Samoa has won the award. LALELEI, which translates to “beautiful” is a love letter and dedication to family and homeland, capturing themes of distance, yearning and commitment to the fa’asamoa (the ‘Samoan way’). With this song’s sonic palette.
Puna Ora, written by Charles Looker and Emily Looker, performed by Aro.
With two waiata from Aro making the Maioha Award shortlist this year, Puna Ora received the most votes by their peers. It was the lead single to Aro’s 2026 album ‘Tāwauwau’, which explores fantasy, faith, beauty, and longing.
Light Lines by Dylan Lardelli
Inspired by a quote from Greek philosopher Heraclitus and the composer’s first work for a string trio, Light Lines builds emerging fragile lines out of ever-shifting invisible foundations.
Te Tapuni written by Rob Ruha, performed by Te Taumata o Apanui (TOA)
Recognised as one of the most influential voices in contemporary Māori music, Rob Ruha was a fitting first recipient of this new award celebrating kaitito Māori who write and compose for kapa haka.
Claire Cowan for Bust Up
Hailed as one of NZs most exciting composers, Cowan previously won this award in 2017, and has received multiple nominations across both screen categories since.
Karl Steven for Pike River
Karl Steven was on the shortlist twice this year, also being nominated alongside co-composer Rob Thorne with Mārama. This is the fourth time Steven has taken home the award.
