As acclaimed curator Nigel Borell prepares to reveal his picks for New Zealand’s National Contemporary Art Award, Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum and Gallery is putting the finishing touches on the exhibition opening 1 August 2025.

The main four National Contemporary Art Award winners will be announced following the final in-person session of the judging process on Thursday 31 July, before the exhibition opens to the public the following day.

With aprize pool exceeding $30,000, the competition continues to attract a rising tide of submissions from across the motu with a record 480 this year.

The 53 finalists are vying for thegrand prize,runner-up,two merit awards, and theCampbell Smith Memorial People’s Choice Award, voted on by visitors before the exhibition closes in November.

Theblind judging process, a hallmark of the award, ensures fairness and surprise, meaning every entry is assessed without artist names attached.

Liz Cotton, Director Museum and Arts, said this collection of art reflects the pulse of our times.

“Contemporary art can be edgy, raw, and deeply resonate with audiences. It’s the art of the day and we’re proud to be showcasing the artists on a national stage,” said Cotton.

“The exhibition is known to draw crowds, including collectors, from across the country to see new and unique work from some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s established and emerging contemporary artists.”

This year’s judge, curator and writer Nigel Borell, will offer insights into his selection process during apublic talk on Friday 1 August, adding depth to the exhibition’s opening weekend.

Mayor Paula Southgate is excited about the calibre of entries.

“The prestigious National Contemporary Arts Award, hosted at our amazing Te Whare Taonga o Waikato is always a highlight of the year for me,” said Mayor Southgate.

“I can’t wait to see this fabulous exhibition that showcases the very best of New Zealand’s contemporary art, right here in Hamilton Kirikiriroa.”

Leading New Zealand law firm Tompkins Wake is the principal sponsor, having supported the awards since 2014, providing the life-changing prize of $20,000 for the winner of the National Contemporary Art Award. The Runner-Up Award of $7500 is provided by the Hugo Charitable Trust Award. The Friends of the Museum and Gallery provides a $2000 Merit Award, and the Random Art Group provide a $1000 Merit Award.

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