The Winner of the 2015 Billy T Award Has Been Named

Hamish Parkison’s PR spiel suggested that he will “attempt to become the greatest comedian of all time within an hour, or fail in a blaze of glory.” Fortunately, he’s closer to ticking off at least one of those things, having been crowned the latest recipient of the prestigious Billy T Award.

Presented since 1997, the award honours the late Billy T James and recognises up-and-coming New Zealand comedians with outstanding talent. Previous winners include: Guy Williams, Steve Wrigley, Sam Wills, Ben Hurley and Dai Henwood.

As the 2015 NZ International Comedy Festival came to an end over the weekend, the Christchurch funny man beat out four other finalists to claim the award with his show Fly or Die. The show was an abstract take on physical and observational stand up comedy, with the use of props, costume changes and audience participation.

In addition to the iconic Yellow Towel, Parkinson gained a $4000 cash injection and a spot on TV3’s current affairs comedy show 7 Days.

Former Billy T winner Dai Henwood also capped off his festival with a win, by picking up The FRED Award. Named in honour of John Clarke’s iconic Kiwi character Fred Dagg, the award was introduced in 2006 and recognises the Festival's Best Show by a New Zealand comedian. Henwood received the renowned golden gumboot and a $7,500 prize package.

Other winners from the festival’s award ceremony include:

- Best International Show – Nish Kumar

- Best Newcomer (Auckland) – Chris Parker

- Best Newcomer (Wellington) – Abby Howells (Glocknid Dwarf Warrior)