AUCKLAND, Today: Entries are now open for the YouTube NZ Marketing Awards, giving marketers across Aotearoa the chance to put their best work forward and show the impact they’ve made.
NZ Marketing magazine, the NZ Marketing Association and naming partner YouTube are again inviting entries, celebrating the strategies, creativity and results that have helped move businesses and brands forward here and overseas.
“We know that marketers in this country produce world-class work,” says NZ Marketing editor Penny Murray. “Now’s the time to show us how you’ve moved the dial for businesses and brands. We’re also marking the 35th anniversary of the Awards in 2026 – an extra reason to celebrate.”
NZ Marketing Association chief executive John Miles adds: “Each year the YouTube NZ Marketing Awards celebrate the work that is setting the standard for marketing in Aotearoa.
“They recognise the strategy, creativity and commercial impact brilliant marketers are delivering across the country. As the industry continues to evolve, the Awards evolve with it.
“This year we’re introducing a new AI category to recognise organisations applying artificial intelligence in thoughtful and responsible ways to strengthen marketing capability and outcomes.”
YouTube is back as premier sponsor after two strong years, and has now signed on for another three-year commitment to the Awards.
“I’m so pleased to share that YouTube has signed on as premier sponsor of the YouTube NZ Marketing Awards for the next three years,” says Caroline Rainsford, Country Director for Google NZ.
“This year we’re introducing a new AI category to recognise organisations applying artificial intelligence in thoughtful and responsible ways to strengthen marketing capability and outcomes.” – Penny Murray, NZ Marketing editor
“YouTube is the heart of culture, with music, sports, and entertainment, and your brand at the centre of it all. No matter your objective, YouTube puts the most trusted creators alongside AI solutions that deliver the results. I can’t wait to see what the entries of the 2026 Awards bring to the table!”
Marketers around the country are being encouraged to enter and share the strategies and campaigns that have delivered real results.
There are more than 30 categories across three main areas: Marketing Excellence Awards, Marketing Campaign Awards and Individual Awards.
Marketing Excellence Awards celebrate excellence across specific disciplines and sectors, showing how effective strategy has translated into measurable results for a business or brand.
Marketing Campaign Awards recognise innovative and agile initiatives that responded to short-term opportunities or challenges and delivered tangible results within 12 months or less.
Individual Awards honour marketing professionals who have contributed to a business or brand’s overall marketing success, both in the short term and over time.
Head to the NZ Marketing website to view sample entry forms.
Enter the YouTube NZ Marketing Awards 2026 here.
YouTube NZ Marketing Awards key dates for 2026
- Call for entries: Thursday, March 12
- Entries close: Friday, April 24, 5pm
- Extension deadline: Monday, May 4, 5pm (at an additional $150+GST)
- Judging rounds 1&2: May to July
- Finalists announced: Tuesday, June 23
- Awards night: Wednesday, September 2 at Spark Arena
For more information, including how to enter, category details, judging information and FAQs, visit the NZ Marketing website or email events@marketing.org.nz.
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