​For artists ready to step up, showcase their talent and become part of New Zealand’s country music story, Tussock Country is the place to be. The festival offers three major competitions that shine a spotlight on emerging and established performers, songwriters and street musicians, opening doors and launching careers in the Capital of Country Music.

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The MLT NZ Gold Guitar Awards are New Zealand’s most prestigious annual country music competition and the centre piece of Tussock Country. Held every June in Gore, the Awards attract hundreds of performers across Junior, Intermediate, Senior and Classic categories, all vying for the coveted Gold Guitar trophies. For many musicians, it is the competition that defines their early career and connects them with the wider country music community.Entries open 5 February 2026 and close 10 April 2026.

Details at www.goldguitars.co.nz

 

The MLT NZ Songwriting Awards celebrate original, unreleased songs by New Zealand and Australian writers. With a strong track record of spotlighting talent such as Mel Parsons and Tami Neilson, the competition is judged anonymously to recognise craft, melody and storytelling. Finalists are invited to perform live at the Country Music Honours as part of the festival.

Entries open 5 February 2026 and close 27 March 2026, with finalist announcements in mid April.

Details at www.countrymusichonours.co.nz

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Freeze Ya Bits Off Busking brings the streets of Gore to life during King’s Birthday weekend. Musicians of all ages perform outdoors across multiple days, competing for prizes and a place in the grand finale. It is welcoming, lively, grassroots and a favourite launchpad for young and emerging artists.

Registrations are open now and close Tuesday 26 May.

www.goredc.govt.nz/our-community/our-events/freeze-ya-bits-off-busking

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READ MORE ABOUT EVERYTHING ON OFFER - NZ's Ten Day Muso Mecca!

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TUSSOCK COUNTRY UTE MUSTER Next event May 24 2026

GORE TRUCK SHOW Next event May 30 2026​

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