Nikau Grace says being a finalist at the Aotearoa Music Awards was a very different experience from attending as a spectator.

Grace was a finalist in two categories at this year’s awards, the Mana Reo award and the People’s Choice Award, alongside some of Aotearoa’s biggest music names. She was thrilled to finish fifth in the people’s choice.

She said the night was overwhelming at first but quickly became an unforgettable experience.

“It was really full-on and overwhelming, but at the same time it was really cool and really fun.

“I met so many amazing people and got to catch up with lots of people I hadn’t seen in a while.”

Having attended the awards previously as a supporter, Grace said she was not prepared for everything that comes with being a finalist.

“I kind of had this expectation that it was going to be a nice, chill night. It was not chill, but it was really, really cool.”

Grace said seeing her name appear among some of the country's most well-known artists was a surreal moment.

“I kind of wrote that category [People’s Choice] off completely because all the famous people were in it. Seeing my name and my song come up was pretty weird.”

One of the highlights of the night was taking part in interviews and meeting artists she has admired for years.

“I went from freaking out and feeling really stressed to thinking, ‘You know what, it's going to be a fun night.’”

While she did not take home an award, Grace said simply being nominated alongside artists she looks up to felt like a win.

“It’s not even about winning. Just the fact that my song was recognised amongst these amazing artists was so cool.”

The awards aren’t the only thing that’s been on her mind recently.

She is currently preparing for her first solo show, Ko Au Ko Koe, which will be held on June 27.

Grace has already begun promoting the performance and said she is excited to share the stage with guest artist Elena.

“I’m really, really excited. She is blessing us with her beautiful voice on June 27.”

Grace hopes the show will be another opportunity to connect with audiences and continue building her music career.

“There is so much talent here. I think people are missing out.”

Tickets are on sale now for her show and can be found on the Auckland Live website or in her social media bios.