KEY POINTS:
The stakes are higher at this year's Smokefree Rockquest, which kicks off this weekend.
While the winning band will take home $10,000 worth of Rockshop equipment, prizes will also be dished out for best lyrics, vocals, women's musicianship, song and published music journalism.
A scholarship to the Tai Poutini music course is awarded for musicianship, selected bands will win mentors and one lucky band are guaranteed airplay.
Throughout winter, the heats and finals will be held in 25 centres, and many of the performances will be recorded for C4.
The North Shore heats are first, at the Birkdale Intermediate Hall at 11am on Sunday.
The national finals will be held at the Bruce Mason Centre on October 20.
