music, marking the event’s 60th anniversary in style. The night belonged to Fazerdaze (Amelia Murray), who made a powerful comeback after years away from the spotlight, taking home both Album of the Year for her introspective third record, Soft Power, and Best Solo Artist.Accepting her awards, Fazerdaze told RNZ, “This album was about crafting my own version of womanhood and adulthood, away from people’s expectations. To be welcomed back like this is deeply humbling.” The musician’s emotional speech resonated with fans and peers alike, capping off her triumphant return.

The event wasn’t short on star power. Grammy award-winning singer Lorde, fresh off a string of surprise performances, picked up Single of the Year for her chart-topping collaboration with Charli XCX, “Girl, so confusing featuring Lorde.” Stan Walker continued his dominance in the Māori music categories, winning both Best Māori Artist and the Te Māngai Pāho Mana Reo award for his te reo anthem “Māori Ki Te Ao.”

Berlin-based duo Earth Tongue claimed Best Group for their psychedelic album Great Haunting, while rising star Hori Shaw was named Breakthrough Artist of the Year.

The ceremony also honored L.A.B and producer 9Lives with the Te Manu Mātārae award for their significant impact on the local music scene, and celebrated a diverse array of genres—from alternative and classical to electronic and folk.

As the curtain fell, the 2025 Aotearoa Music Awards proved once again that New Zealand’s music scene is as bold, diverse, and inspiring as ever—with Fazerdaze’s comeback providing the night’s most memorable moment.