The inaugural Kiri Te Kanawa Song Quest was held on Saturday 11 July 2026 in Te Whanganui-a-Tara - celebrating its 70th year with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra at the Michael Fowler Centre.

Six Finalists, selected by International Head Judge Frederica von Stade, and Panel Judges, former Song Quest winner and New Zealand baritone Phillip Rhodes, and soprano Joanna Foote, vied for the winners' title at the Grand Final Gala. The 2026 Song Quest was won by 19 year old countertenor Samuel Mataele.