Auckland Festival of Photography and Auckland UNESCO City of Music have announced the inaugural Aotearoa Music Photography Award | Whakaahua Puoro Toa competition, to be held during NZ Music Month – May 2021.

“Music photography is an art form; whether it’s a community event, a big festival highlights or a gig review, photography is always there. It’s a wonderful cultural activity. We welcome Auckland UNESCO City of Music as our partner and look forwards to some great entries” said Julia Durkin MNZM, the founder and director of Auckland Festival of Photography.

“Photography and photographers are vital in preserving the memories, legacy and wairua of our musicians and venues,” said Auckland UNESCO City of Music Director Mark Roach. “We welcome this new platform that celebrates the craft of music photography and our music heritage.”

The award is an early part of the 2021 Auckland Festival of Photography programme which runs free and in various locations around Auckland from June 3 – 20 .

Open to all NZ professional and community photographers, online entries can be submitted from May 1 – 24 via the festival website. Winners will be announced and prizes allocated (first prize is $1500) at an awards function on May 28.