2026 VAC Benny Awards Nomination

The award is named after the famous New Zealand magician, Edgar Benyon. It is a national award bestowed by the past Benny winners to recognize the outstanding lifetime achievement of someone who has excelled in, or contributed to the entertainment industry above the “norm”. The Benny Award can be conferred posthumously.

Awarded to a financial VAC member who has shown a high degree of excellence throughout their career. Selection is made by a vote of financial VAC members for one of three top finalists emailed out to members.

For magicians, dancers, specialty acts and all other genres not covered by the other awards.

Awarded to recognize a talented performer or group at the start of a promising career. There is no age restriction to this category; however the selection process will generally focus on youth.

Awarded to a group or individual who has made an impact or contribution to the NZ entertainment industry but is NOT a performer.

Awarded to a New Zealand individual or group who has made an outstanding impact or contribution to the entertainment industry at an international level.

Awarded to acknowledge the best of the talent that performed at a VAC Entertainment Showcase during the preceding12 months (or since the last awards).

To recognize an unselfish or exceptional contribution to the betterment of the entertainment industry either through assisting others, charity work, dedication and proficiency in their field and/or lifetime achievement. Recipients do not have to be entertainers, for example they can be in related activities such as promoters, broadcasters, filmmakers, journalists etc; or family members that work tirelessly in the background.