Only 4% of Streamed Songs in New Zealand Are by Local Artists

Published 2026-10-25

Music streaming has become the most popular way for New Zealanders to listen to songs, but a new figure has raised questions about local music. In the 2025-26 period, only 4% of the songs streamed in Aotearoa came from New Zealand artists. The report from 1News asks what is causing this low share and whether streaming services are making it harder for people to find local music.

Many streaming platforms use computer programs that recommend songs based on what a listener has played before. These systems often promote popular international artists, which can mean that New Zealand musicians receive less attention. Local musicians also say that it is difficult to get onto large playlists, and that their songs can be buried among millions of tracks from around the world. Because of this, some artists find it hard to earn money from their work through streaming payments.

The situation raises important questions for the future of the country's music industry. Supporters of local music believe that more support for New Zealand artists, including better promotion on streaming platforms, could help listeners discover new sounds at home. Meanwhile, listeners who want to hear more New Zealand music may need to search for it on purpose, by following local artists or using playlists that focus on Kiwi music.

The figure of 4% shows a clear gap between what New Zealanders say they value and what they actually stream. As streaming continues to grow, the question of how to keep local music visible and heard is likely to remain an important topic for artists, industry groups and listeners across the country.

Sources: 1News

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