[3] Hill remains a major sponsor,[4] claiming that "It is my dream that New Zealand will one day become a much more balanced society with not just wonderful sport – but also wonderful classical music.

"[5] In 2004, the event became a member of the World Federation of International Music Competitions.

[3][5] The event is held in New Zealand, with the first two semi-final rounds of competition conducted in Queenstown and the third and final rounds held in Auckland.

[6] There is a total prize pool of NZ$100,000, with the winner receiving $40,000.

[7] Special guests at the competition have included Prime Minister of New Zealand Helen Clark,[8] and Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Christopher Finlayson.