Aotearoa Music Organisations share 2026 NZ Music Industry Manifesto
The New Zealand music industry contributes nearly $1 billion to GDP and builds this country’s brand in international markets more effectively than any advertising campaign. Our music is a source of pride and inspiration for audiences across Aotearoa, reflecting our unique cultural identity. Yet the music industry receives only a fraction of the government’s arts funding.
Led by Recorded Music NZ, APRA AMCOS NZ, the New Zealand Music Commission and other key industry partners, the Manifesto calls on government and political parties to commit to targeted action to help our industry reach its full potential.
This election year, we are asking government and political parties to commit to targeted action to help our industry reach its potential.
The Music Manifesto outlines the contribution of Aotearoa music and details the seven asks for the next government to develop the domestic music sector and grow music exports for Aotearoa.
We have seven key asks for government action:
Music Industry Growth Strategy – Recognise music as a growth industry alongside screen and games
Copyright Law & AI Regulation – Hold the line and protect artists’ rights to choose how their work is used
Music Infrastructure & Artist Development – Aotearoa is bursting with musical talent but the infrastructure needs support
Export: Supercharge Growth – Treat music export with the strategic seriousness applied to primary industries
Māori Music Development – Our unique offering to the world
Government Levers: Discoverability – Use existing tools to amplify Aotearoa music
Music Education – The talent pipeline begins in the classroom