Only albums released during the previous calendar year (Jan 1^st to Dec 31^st 2011) are eligible.

The album’s release date is defined as when it was made available for purchase via physical/digital retailers by the public in NZ.

An album is considered eligible for the TMP if the playing time of the full album is over 25 minutes or contains six different songs or more. Audio visual content will not be considered in this calculation.

The album must contain more than 75% original compositions. Arrangements, adaptations or ‘covers’ are not considered original compositions.

Multiple artist compilations are not eligible for the TMP. If multiple artists contribute individual tracks and are listed individually on the album packaging the album is defined as a multiple artist compilation.

‘Best of’, ‘Greatest Hits’ or ‘re-released’ records are all ineligible for nomination.

Double or multi-disc albums are only eligible if they are sold as one full album.

All nominated artists must be citizens (by birth or citizenship) or, have been granted permanent residency in NZ. In the case of groups or production teams, a minimum of half of the members must qualify as citizens or permanent residents.

The recording must be owned by a New Zealand owned company or company with a NZ based office.

Solo artists, groups and production teams are all eligible as long as the album satisfies the criteria outlined above.