FromThePit 2026 Captures Aotearoa’s Music Scene at Full Volume!

12 Apr

‍ FromThePit, Aotearoa’s much-loved annual music photography showcase, is back for its eighth year in 2026, bringing a fresh wave of energy, creativity, and unforgettable live moments from across the motu.

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A carefully curated collection of live music photography, FromThePit captures Aotearoa artists doing what they do best, on stage, in local venues and in their element.

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This year, 58 photographers share their latest mahi, offering a vibrant snapshot of the country’s ever-evolving music scene.

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The 2026 exhibition centres around a dynamic audio-visual (AV) showcase featuring 100 images, selected from hundreds of submissions. Set to a soundtrack of homegrown Kiwi music, the work spans genres, scenes, and perspectives and spotlighting both seasoned photographers and rising talent.

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The AV showcase will debut at the Taite Music Prize and at the New Zealand National Convention Centre in Tāmaki Makaurau, giving audiences a first taste of the visual storytelling that defines FromThePit.

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More than just an exhibition, FromThePit has a strong educational kaupapa. A series of events and workshops throughout the year offers insight into the craft of live music photography, creating space to learn, connect, and grow within the community.

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As the industry continues to shift and rebuild, FromThePit remains a powerful reminder of the magic of live music. These images don’t just document performances; they capture the atmosphere, the connection, and the heartbeat of Aotearoa’s music culture.

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FromThePit 2026 will be available online and popping up in locations nationwide during Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa | NZ Music Month in May 2026. To explore this year’s exhibition, find events, or dive into the archives, head to FromThePit.co.nz.

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Designed and curated by photographers Dave Simpson, Chontalle Musson, Stella Gardiner, Jennifer de Koning, and Brenna Gotje, FromThePit 2026 is set to be an immersive, image-driven celebration of Aotearoa music culture.

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FromThePit is made possible through partnerships with

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Sony, Audioculture | Iwi Waiata, Auckland Council | Te Kaunihera o Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland UNESCO City of Music | Tāmaki Makaurau UNESCO Pā Puoro, NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa, Independent Music NZ (IMNZ), New Zealand Music Commission | Te Reo Reka o Aotearoa, Agentx