Yesterday we provided a statement to RNZ relating to the actions of one of our guests at the 2025 Aotearoa Music Awards on Thursday night, and we wanted to share it with you below. We loved celebrating all the finalists, winners and our music community at the event and enjoying the incredible performances. Māori ki te ao!

The inappropriate comments made by Hon. Chris Bishop during Stan Walker’s performance have no place at the Aotearoa Music Awards.  

Aotearoa Music Awards is committed to creating a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for everyone involved and our expectations were clearly communicated to all who attended the event.   

The Awards respect and honour te ao Māori and we were proud to support Stan with his vision for his powerful rendition of Māori Ki Te Ao.