Government Amps Up Rockquest Funding

20 Jun 2026, 18:49 by New Zealand Government · SCOOP

Hon Erica Stanford
Minister of Education

The Government has increased annual funding for events delivered by Rockquest Promotions by $50,000 per year, acknowledging the rising costs for these events, Education Minister Erica Stanford announced today.

“This brings the annual funding to $1.765 million to support programmes such as Smokefree Rockquest, Smokefree Tangata Beats, Bandquest, Showquest, OnScreen, Stills, and TOI (Wearable Arts).

“These events are amazing for young people to showcase their creative talents and think about whether a career as a performer is for them.

“In the past artists such as Kimbra, Marlon Willliams, and Bic Runga have competed in the Smokefree Rockquest, with Lorde competing in Bandquest. All have gone onto to have amazing careers as performers.

“Last year, 15,000 students participated performing live music, dance and drama to digital media and visual arts, with many students creating original work for the first time.

“Today’s announcement is part of a package of funding that has included $5.6 million to provide musical instruments to state and state-integrated schools and kura with students in Years 0–8.

Additionally, $300,000 has been provided to the New Zealand Choral Federation and Choirs Aotearoa New Zealand. Each will receive a one-off grant of $150,000 to support the production of their annual events, such as the Big Sing.

Eligible schools and kura will receive music kits and taonga pūoro kits based on their roll size. Schools and kura will have a choice of kit that allows them to complement existing music resources and curriculum coverage.

“Music builds strong foundations for learning, confidence, and can lead to new opportunities both within and outside the classroom.

Ms Stanford who learned to play the recorder at school said she wanted every student to have the ability to learn music, performance, instruments or singing.

“It’s a fantastic way to keep young people engaged in education.”

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