Pacific Music Awards thriving on stage, struggling behind the scenes

The Pacific Music Awards, which celebrated its 22nd year, is facing financial struggles despite being a staple event on New Zealand's Pasifika calendar. This year's awards ceremony, held at Manukau's Due Drop Events centre and livestreamed simultaneously, drew a large audience. Notably, RnB artist Sam V, who won the best Pacific Soul/RnB award for the fifth consecutive year, criticized the government's lack of investment in arts during his acceptance speech.

Although the awards receive financial support from multiple government agencies, the Ministry and Crown entities have implemented a two percent budget saving, contributing to the event's financial challenges. The Pacific Music Awards Trust is seeking public donations starting from $10 to keep the event afloat. The organization's trustee, Petrina Togi-Sa ena, stated that the trust is prioritizing production and stage costs while reducing spending on travel for finalists and guests.

Despite securing new sponsors, Togi-Sa ena highlighted the ongoing difficulty in securing consistent funding, with government contributions remaining uncertain.