Award for Best Non Illustrated Book 2026
Finalist
Designers: Te Kani Price
Title: Ngā Oro me Ngā Iere a Ōpōtiki Mai Tawhiti – Sweet Harmonies in Song by Ōpōtiki Mai Tawhiti
Publisher: Huia Publishers
Format: 260 x 180 mm, 154pp, a spot gloss UV and emboss on the front cover. Standard section sewn binding and a rich black outer.
Typography: Name Masthead: New Spirit Regular/Bold, size 34, leading 29
Name Body: TT Commons Pro Medium, size 11.5, leading 15.5
Name Lyrics: TT Commons Pro Bold, size 16, leading 18
Publisher’s Brief:
“The project required a suitable pairing of Orchestral motifs and Kapa Haka sensibilities to reflect the partnership between the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra and Ōpōtiki Mai Tawhiti kapa haka ground. Further than that the book reflected the uniforms and marae interiors within the Whakatōhea region.
The intention was for the songs to be heroed in the layout, and achieve a bilingual layout that was practical, allowed for varied sizing of whakamārama and carried its own rhythm and pace.”
Judges’ Comments:
“A bilingual songboook. The format feels well suited to both content and use. The earthy colour palette feels appropriate, giving the publication warmth. The spot UV and embossing give tactility and impact to a minimalistic cover design. The use of orange feels fresh and contemporary, while the balance between modern design principles and Māori visual references is handled with sensitivity. Internally, generous use of white space creates a refined reading experience, allowing the illustrations room to breathe and take focus.”
