Young musicians from across the region brought energy to the Annesbrook Centre on Saturday for the Nelson heats of the 2026 Smokefreerockquest and Smokefree Tangata Beats competitions.
The event drew a mix of first-time performers and returning competitors, with 12 acts earning places in the Nelson Regional Final on 3 July at the Theatre Royal.
Judge Clayton Hiku says he was impressed by the depth of talent on display.
“Soulful voices, blazing guitar solos and so much groove from the Nelson Heats this year. Super impressed.”
Golden Bay High School student Poppy Willow won the Smokefreerockquest solo/duo section, while Bella Watson of Waimea College placed second. Both received Rockshop gear vouchers and will move on to the video submission stage, where finalists are selected for the national competition.
Nelson College group Bailey Brothers won the Smokefree Tangata Beats regional title, which celebrates original music inspired by Tangata Whenua and Pasifika identity and culture. The group will also progress to the next stage of the competition.
Rockquest Promotions, founded in 1988, runs nationwide youth programmes across music, dance, film, photography, fashion and the performing arts, reaching thousands of young people across Aotearoa each year.
