The prize is named after respected New Zealand music journalist and broadcaster Dylan Taite, who died in 2003.

[2] The award is judged on originality, creativity, and musicianship displayed on an album, rather than on sales or commercial factors.

The winner receives a $2000 cash prize and a performance slot in the annual Summer In The Square festival.

Tom Scott's groups @Peace, Home Brew and 2019 winners Avantdale Bowling Club have been shortlisted six times.

Tami Neilson and 2010 winner Lawrence Arabia lead solo performers with four shortlisted albums.

After fifteen annual awards[update] there has not yet been a two-time winner of the Taite Music Prize.