The Pacific Music Awards have been recognising Pacific artists and their contribution to music in Aotearoa for more than two decades. As the 2026 finalists are announced, it’s another reminder of the depth of talent that exists across our communities and the impact Pacific artists continue to have on the sound of Aotearoa.
At Precise, we’ve been fortunate to work alongside our Pacific artists and partners for many years. Their stories, cultures, languages and experiences have helped shape some of the most memorable music to come out of this country, while opening doors for those coming through behind them.
This year’s finalists reflect the breadth of Pacific music being created today. From hip hop and soul to reggae, gospel and Pacific language music, the nominations highlight the many different ways Pacific artists continue to tell their stories and connect with audiences.
We’re incredibly proud to see a number of artists from the Precise whānau recognised this year.
Congratulations to A.R.T, Junior Soqeta, Three Houses Down, MELODOWNZ, Island Vibes, Brotherhood Musiq, Signature Choir, Myshaan, Village 90, Fejoint, Switch.E & Folau, and Etu, whose nominations reflect another outstanding year for Pacific music.
One nomination that will mean a great deal to many people is Fiji’s recognition in the Best International Pacific Artist category.
As we approach the first anniversary of his passing, his influence remains impossible to measure. His songs continue to be played in homes, cars, churches, family celebrations and community gatherings throughout the Pacific and around the world. For many people, Fiji’s music is woven into the very fabric of their lives. To see him recognised once again feels like a fitting tribute to a legacy that continues to endure.
While we’re incredibly proud of the artists connected to Precise, this moment is really about the wider Pacific music community. Every finalist represents years of hard work, sacrifice and support from the people around them. Families, friends, producers, songwriters, managers, musicians and fans all share in these achievements.
Congratulations to every finalist. To be recognised among your peers is an achievement in itself and a reflection of the work, commitment and creativity that has gone into your music over the past year.
We wish all of this year’s worthy finalists the very best of luck for the awards in August.
The 2026 Pacific Music Awards will be held on Wednesday 12 August at the Due Drop Events Centre in Manukau, Auckland.
Precise finalists:
A.R.T
Flava Best Pacific Group
Pacific Media Network Best Pacific Language
Best Pacific Soul/RnB Artist
NZ On Air Best Pacific Music Video
Recorded Music NZ Te Tino Pukaemi Moana Nui a Kiwa o te Tau | Best Pacific Music AlbumJunior Soqeta
NZ Music Commission Best Pacific Male Artist
Pacific Media Network Best Pacific Language
Best Pacific Roots/Reggae ArtistThree Houses Down
Flava Best Pacific Group
Best Pacific Roots/Reggae Artist
NZ On Air Best Pacific Music VideoMELODOWNZ
NZ Music Commission Best Pacific Male Artist
ONErpm Best Pacific Hip Hop ArtistIsland Vibes
Best Pacific Roots/Reggae Artist
APRA Best Pacific SongBrotherhood Musiq
Flava Best Pacific Group
531pi Best Pacific Gospel ArtistSignature Choir
Flava Best Pacific Group
531pi Best Pacific Gospel ArtistMyshaan
Best Pacific Soul/RnB ArtistVillage 90
Flava Best Pacific GroupFejoint, Switch.E & Folau
Best Pacific Roots/Reggae ArtistEtu
NIU FM Best International Pacific ArtistFiji
NIU FM Best International Pacific Artist