The Kiwi pop star beat out major stars Taylor Swift, Pink, Alicia Keys and Bjork to take the prize for best international female solo artist.

Unfortunately, she wasn't there to collect her award and sent her apologies via a pre-shot video, explaining that she couldn't make it as she was busy rehearsing for her Melodrama tour.

She made a short but sweet speech in which she thanked her team, blew kisses and thanked her fans for "showing up to the shows" and supporting her.

She said: "I am so incredibly honoured...it has been so much fun."

She also sang and danced to her hit Green Light in a moment of celebratory joy.

Grime artist Stormzy and singer-songwriter Dua Lipa were named the British solo artists of the year.

Lorde's Brit Award wins follows what many have claimed was a major snub at the Grammys, at which Lorde was the only female artist nominated for album of the year, but was not invited to perform a solo set.

Lorde also lost out on the award, which went to Bruno Mars for 24 Karat Magic.