Billy T Award

Started in 1997 and inspired by comedy legend Billy T James, this award celebrates the growth of fresh talent in the New Zealand comedy industry. Each year it is awarded to an outstanding emerging performer with a commitment to their comedy career.

Eligible comedians are NZ citizens or residents who have had between one and three solo shows in the Festival. With applications for the award opening in October each year, this award is a journey which takes place over several months leading up to the Festival in May.

Up to five nominees are selected on their proven comedic ability, talent, current form and potential. The nominees go on to perform a set during the Billy T Jams showcase in February, then their one-hour solo shows in the Festival, where they are judged by a panel of industry experts. The Billy T Award winner is then announced at Last Laughs, our Festival finale show.

Many of New Zealand’s most celebrated comedians have received the Billy T Award.

Past Winners of the Billy T Award:

For the full list including nominees, visit the Comedy Festival website, and see below for the full list of winners.

Year	Winner
2023	Abby Howells
2021	Brynley Stent
2019	Kura Forrester
2018	Melanie Bracewell
2017	Angella Dravid
2016	David Correos
2015	Hamish Parkinson
2014	Guy Montgomery
2013	Rose Matafeo
2012	Guy Williams
2011	Nick Gibb
2010	Rhys Mathewson
2009	Chris Brain
2008	Steve Wrigley
2007	Mrs Peacock (Jarrod Baker and Dave Smith)
2006	Cori Gonzalez-Macuer
2005	Sam Wills
2004	Ben Hurley
2003	Justine Smith
2002	Dai Henwood
2001	Jan Maree
2000	Mike Loder Paul Ego
1999	Philip Patston The Humourbeasts (Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi)
1998	Brendhan Lovegrove Radar (Andrew Lumsden) Sugar and Spice (Jonathan Brugh and Jason Hoyte)
1997	Cal Wilson Ewen Gilmour