Kiri Te Kanawa Song Quest
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.
2026 Kiri Te Kanawa Song Quest winner
"This competition offers not only the financial support, with the prize money that is won, but also the publicity to sort of get you noticed overseas."
Samuel Mataele
IMPACTS 2026
NGĀ PĀPĀTANGA O 2026Overall attendance to Song Quest events
Artists and crew engaged
Experienced the Grand Final Gala for free via the livestream
Tuned in to RNZ Concert's live radio broadcasts
Overall attendance to Song Quest events
Artists and crew engaged
Experienced the Grand Final Gala for free via the livestream
Tuned in to RNZ Concert's live radio broadcasts
Overall attendance to Song Quest events
Artists and crew engaged
Experienced the Grand Final Gala for free via the livestream
Tuned in to RNZ Concert's live radio broadcasts
Celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Song Quest