Time-line of the Event

The 2026 competition events are taking place in March, running through April with finals in May.

Entry Process

• Bands enter online at www.battleofthebands.co.nz
• After registration, bands are placed into a heat at a venue nearest their location.
• We recommend bands enter now to ensure a placement at their nearest venue.

History of the Event

Battle of the Bands – National Championship has been an annual feature of the New Zealand music scene since 1993. In that time the event has developed significant brand recognition and is strongly supported within its target demographic. Many well-known NZ music artists have been previous winners and finalists of the event; such as OPSHOP, TADPOLE, BLINDSPOTT, BAKERS EDDY, SKINNY HOBOS, STRANGELY AROUSING, BRENDON THOMAS & THE VIBES, THE RUBICS, ALIEN WEAPONRY, VALKYRIE and Members of I AM GIANT, DEVILSKIN to name just a few.

Aims and Overview

The event consists of multiple live shows held at leading professional live music venues throughout the country. Each year sees bands from all over NZ competing for a place at the National Finals, which are held in Wellington over 2 nights.

The primary function of the Battle of the Bands National Championship is to provide a platform for emerging music talent to obtain greater public awareness and broaden their opportunities in the search for music industry recognition & progression as well as provide ready set up live events for participating bands to gain more stage experience, to road-test and develop their songs and stage craft. Since 2009 the event has also offered greater involvement for fan/viewers, by means of competitions, digital developments and engagement within the judging by the use of audience voting.

Prizes / Sponsors

Over the years, Battle of the Bands - National Championship has been supported by many of NZ's premier brands (As well as International companies), from recording studios, musical instrument retailers and their international top brands, clothing and footwear brands, music festivals, beverage companies, universities and much more. The 2026 prize list and supporting sponsors will be announced shortly.

Venues

The country's best Live Music Venues will host Battle of the Bands National Championship events.

2026 Event dates and Venues

All dates and venues are currently being confirmed. As dates are announced, they will appear on the Competition page of this website and the BOTB FB page.