Entries are now open for the 2026 Molly Morpeth Canaday Awards, with artists from across Aotearoa invited to take part in one of New Zealand’s longest-running contemporary art awards.

Celebrating 40 years in 2026, the awards offer more than $30,000 in prizes and awards, including the prestigious Molly Morpeth Canaday Major Award worth $15,000 and the Akel Award runner-up prize of $7000.

Other awards include the Craigs Investment Partners Youth Award, Mayor’s Prize, merit awards and the popular People’s Choice Award.

Artists who enter before July 17 can still take advantage of the earlybird entry fee of $45. Entries close on Friday, July 31, at 5pm.

Acclaimed contemporary artist Judy Darragh will serve as guest judge for the 2026 awards, joined by preliminary judges Ngaroma Riley, Matt Ellwood and Christina Barton.

Organisers say the awards continue to provide artists with an important opportunity to showcase contemporary art and be part of a respected national exhibition.

The awards are presented by Arts Whakatāne.

For entry details, visit the Molly Morpeth Canaday Awards website.