Kawiti Waetford (co-curator)
Kawiti Waetford (Ngāti Hine, Ngātiwai, Ngāpuhi) is a highly acclaimed opera singer, renowned for his powerful and emotive performances on the international stage. Raised on the beautiful Tutukaka Coast of Northland, New Zealand, Kawiti is a multi-talented artist, excelling not only as an opera singer but also as a performer, public speaker, and Reo Māori expert who uses his voice to bring together energy and people.
With a Master's in Advanced Vocal Studies from the Wales International Academy of Voice, Kawiti trained and performed in the UK and Europe, mentored by the legendary Dame Kiri Te Kanawa. His rich baritone voice, which resonates with depth and warmth, has captivated audiences around the world.
Kawiti has sung in concerts with the NZ Symphony Orchestra, the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, showcasing his versatility as an artist. He has had the honor of performing alongside esteemed artists such as Dame Kiri, Frederica von Stade, Simon O'Neill, and Teddy Tahu Rhodes.
In 2011, he further honed his craft at the Solti Te Kanawa Accademia di bel canto, working closely with Dame Kiri and Sir Thomas Allen. Kawiti's international performances include Murray Schaffer’s Apocalypsis at the Luminato Festival 2015 in Toronto and Ponifasio's Jerusalem at the Red Bridge Project 2023 in Luxembourg and the Romaeuropa Festival 2023 at Teatro Argentina in Rome.
During his time in the UK, Kawiti had the unique opportunity to perform for Their Royal Highnesses, Charles, Prince of Wales, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, and Prince Henry of Wales, and attended Buckingham Palace to meet Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip.
Most recently, Kawiti showcased his versatility by voicing the character of Kristoff in Disney's Frozen Reo Māori, a translation from English into Māori produced by Matewā Media. His involvement in the APRA Reo Māori Songhubs 2022 as one of eight selected songwriters and his solo performance at the APRA Silver Scrolls Awards 2022, where he reimagined Troy Kingi and The Nudge's award-winning song, He Ōrite, in collaboration with The Black Quartet, highlight his commitment to the cultural richness of his heritage.
Based in Kerikeri, Northland, Kawiti extends his influence beyond the stage. He actively collaborates with Kōhanga Reo, Kura Kaupapa Māori, marae, hapū, and iwi on projects that strengthen the connection between people, whenua, and mātauranga Māori through kaupapa Māori-based education projects.
Kawiti Waetford's dedication to opera and classical music, combined with his commitment to cultural preservation and education, leaves an enduring legacy in the world of performing arts.
Greg Haver (co-curator)
Greg Haver is an award-winning producer with a background in engineering, programming and drumming. He built his impressive reputation with artists including the Manic Street Preachers, Melanie C, INME, The Chills, Troy Kingi, Opshop, Devilskin, the Feelers, Kimbra, Catatonia, Super Furry Animals and Bullet For My Valentine. He is renowned for his diverse production skills and innovative arrangements. He’s the co-chair of the Music Producers Guild Aotearoa and has been involved with setting up several industry programmes including AMPS, SyncPosium, SongHubs and NZ On Air's New Music Development.
Noema Te Hau III (producer)
Noema Te Hau III (Rongomaiwahine, Ngāti Porou) is an award-winning music producer, songwriter, performer and luminary based in Auckland, New Zealand.
In 2023, Noema in collaboration with Mohi Allen, Hēmi Kelly, Amy Boroevich won the APRA Maioha Award for the song "Me Pēhea Rā," performed by Mohi. This accolade not only underscored Noema's remarkable songwriting and production prowess but also cemented his status as a trailblazer in the realm of contemporary indigenous music.
Beyond his achievements as a songwriter and producer, Noema currently manages the studios at BIG FAN, a renowned creative hub synonymous with accessibility and production excellence. In this role, he continues to nurture emerging talents while continuing to expand his music portfolio which includes working with esteemed kiwi artists like Troy Kingi, Alayna, Paige and Mohi.
In addition to his creative endeavors, Noema's passion for music education has also been instrumental in shaping the next generation of musical talent. For six years, he served as a dedicated lecturer at the Music and Audio Institute of New Zealand, imparting invaluable knowledge and mentorship to aspiring musicians eager to embark on their own creative journeys.
Driven by a passion for music and a commitment to excellence, Noema Te Hau III continues to push boundaries, inspire creativity, and shape the sound of the next generation of artists.
Kingdon Chapple-Wilson (KINGS) (producer)
Kingdon Chapple-Wilson, professionally known as Kings, is a prominent figure in the New Zealand music industry as a rapper, singer, and songwriter. Since 2018, he has been crafting his musical journey under the banner of his self-run label, Arch Angel Records. Notably, his 2016 hit single "Don't Worry Bout' It" stands as a testament to his success, holding the esteemed title of the longest-running No. 1 single in New Zealand.
With a rich cultural background of Māori and Samoan heritage, Kings draws inspiration from his family's legacy of artists and educators, notably his grandfather Arnold Manaaki Wilson. Currently residing in Auckland with his daughter, Kings stands tall at 6 feet and operates his music studio at Awataha Marae, a space lovingly built by his grandfather. His journey into music began at a tender age of seven when he started learning the guitar, eventually honing his skills through a foundation year course at MAINZ.
Transitioning into a solo career during the mid-2010s, Kings initially lent his talents in music production to various companies worldwide. However, it was his breakthrough with "Don't Worry Bout' It" that catapulted him into the spotlight. The song's impromptu music video, shot in Fiji, quickly garnered attention and achieved double platinum certification. Kings' meteoric rise led to numerous accolades, including the prestigious "Highest Selling New Zealand Single" and "Radio Airplay Record of the Year" at the 2017 Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards.
Building on this success, he released his self-titled debut EP and subsequently dropped his debut album Chapter One in late 2017, followed by his sophomore album Two in early 2018. Continuously making waves in the music scene, Kings has earned nominations and recognition, solidifying his status as a formidable talent, even appearing as a contestant on the New Zealand version of The Masked Singer in 2021.
Rob Ruha (songwriter)
Rob Ruha, acclaimed as the foremost Māori Music ambassador from Aotearoa-New Zealand, is a pioneering artist who pushes boundaries. He has successfully brought indigenous music into the mainstream with sold-out live performances, extensive commercial radio airplay, chart-topping success, and multiple award-winning titles in his homeland.
Renowned for his ability to create universally appealing multilingual music, Rob has become a viral sensation with hits like '35' and 'Taera,' accumulating millions of views and streams. His music has garnered praise from publications like The Rolling Stone for its authentic Aotearoa roots. A trailblazer in progressive Māori music, Rob's third album, "Preservation of Scenery," earned him the Best RnB Album award at the Aotearoa Music Awards. Tracks like 'Taera' reached number one on the Pacific Top 20 Charts, while 'That’s where I’ll be' topped the charts in Aotearoa. His collaboration with youth choir KA HAO on the TikTok hit '35' earned him the prestigious Silver Scroll Award for Best Song in Aotearoa-New Zealand, as well as platinum sales records and widespread radio play.
Rob's talent has also been recognized with awards such as the Supreme Matariki Award and the Huia Kaimanawa trophy. With his knack for creating unforgettable experiences, Rob Ruha, alongside the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, delivered a memorable performance that earned international acclaim as a finalist in the 'Best Live Sound' category at the 2023 New York Festivals Radio Awards. He has headlined major festivals like The Lantern Fest and Waitangi Day in Porirua, drawing record crowds. Rob has collaborated with esteemed artists such as Six60, Drax Project, The Halluci Nation, Josh Tatofi, KINGS, Jon Lemmon, and more. He currently serves as the Musical Director for Disney's Reo Māori versions of 'Coco,' 'Moana,' 'Frozen,' and 'The Lion King.' Additionally, he has been the music director for events like the Silver Scroll Awards and the TM50 album project celebrating 50 years of Te Matatini.
Pere Wihongi (songwriter)
Iwi: Te Rarawa, Ngapuhi, Ngāti Kuri, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Wai
PERE, the revered Māori singer-songwriter and kapa haka sensation, stands as a living testament to the power of music and culture to bridge worlds and inspire hearts. Born and raised in the lush landscapes of Aotearoa, New Zealand, PERE's journey is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, carrying the timeless melodies of Māori heritage into the global spotlight.
From a young age, PERE's passion for music and kapa haka (Māori performing arts) burned brightly. Their innate talent was nurtured by the rich Māori cultural tapestry woven throughout their upbringing. Drawing inspiration from the captivating landscapes of their homeland, PERE's music beautifully intertwines the old and the new, echoing the voices of their ancestors while forging a path uniquely their own.
PERE's songwriting is a soul-stirring exploration of Māori legends, ancestral wisdom, and contemporary issues. Each lyric is a thread connecting the past, present, and future, weaving stories of love, resilience, and cultural pride. Their voice, resonant and hauntingly beautiful, carries the spirit of Aotearoa wherever it travels, leaving listeners spellbound.
As a kapa haka star, PERE's performances are electrifying displays of Māori culture, showcasing the mesmerizing art of waiata (song), haka (dance), and poi (traditional dance with swinging balls). With grace and precision, they lead their group in spirited renditions that captivate audiences around the world, fostering a deep appreciation for the traditions of the Māori people.
PERE's impact extends beyond the stage and recording studio. They are a dedicated advocate for the preservation and revitalization of the Māori language, Te Reo Māori, and the perpetuation of cultural practices. Their tireless efforts in education and community engagement have earned them a special place in the hearts of Māori and non-Māori alike.
With an unmistakable voice, full of power and passion, Pere blends old school Māori soul, with a New Orleans jazz vibe, to create an empowering anthem, full of heart and spirit.
For many, Pere is a familiar face - and voice - as the founding member and co-manager of Māoridom’s current top singing sensation Maimoa, trailblazing Māori music in this modern times and winners of Best Māori Artist 2020.
In a world increasingly hungry for authentic voices and cultural diversity, PERE shines as a beacon of hope and unity. Their music transcends boundaries, touching the hearts of people from all walks of life. PERE is not just an iconic Māori singer-songwriter and kapa haka star; they are a cultural ambassador, a guardian of traditions, and a visionary artist whose melodies echo through the ages, reminding us of the enduring power of music to connect, inspire, and heal.
Maisey Rika (songwriter)
Maisey Rika is a contemporary Māori composer and singer whose musical journey began at the age of 13, singing alongside her mother and aunties. Her debut recording, "E Hine" (1997), a compilation of traditional Māori songs recorded with her school choir, Hato Hohepa (St Joseph’s Māori Girls College), achieved double platinum status and earned her the Mana Reo award for Best Māori Language Album at the 1998 New Zealand Music Awards.
Notably, Rika was also a nominee for Best Female Vocalist at just 15 years old. Since then, Rika has released five well-received original albums, all of which have charted in New Zealand's Top 40 Album Chart and garnered numerous music awards. Her discography includes her self-titled EP "Maisey Rika" (2008), followed by "Tohu" (2009), "Whitiora" (2012), "Tira" (2016), and "Ngā Mata o te Ariki Tāwhirimātea" (2020), the latter created during the Covid-19 lockdown in Aotearoa. Her latest album is a reflection of ancient Matariki stories, a project that involved collaboration with ten renowned music producers in New Zealand.
Her songs "Hiwa-i-te-rangi" and "Waitī Waitā" have been recognized as finalists for the prestigious APRA Silver Scroll Award and the APRA Maioha Award, respectively. Rika's talent has taken her on extensive international tours and shared stages with Grammy Award-winning artists such as India Arie, John Legend, Blind Boys of Alabama, and George Kahumoku Jr. At home, she has collaborated with prominent local musicians and has served as an inspiration to emerging artists like Stan Walker, Teeks, and Rob Ruha. Her soulful and graceful style, blending Te Reo, folk, acoustic, soul, and easy listening genres, has earned her international acclaim deeply rooted in the essence of Aotearoa.
Awhimai Fraser (songwriter)
Awhimai Fraser (Waikato, Ngāti Pūkenga, Ngāi Tāmanuhiri, Ngāti Kahungunu) is a professional singer, actress and multi-disciplinary creative originally from Taupō and now based in Kirikiriroa.
With a degree in Musical Theatre and an extensive performing arts background, Awhimai has brought to life numerous roles on our screens including Ahikāroa, Shortland St, Toi Time and voicing Elsa Pakeke in Frozen Reo Māori.
No stranger to the stage either, Awhimai has performed at The Court Theatre, Fortune Theatre, Circa Theatre and most recently, Whakapaupakihi – The Musical, at the War Memorial Theatre in Te Tairawhiti.
A proud past tauira at Te Wananga Takiura o Ngā Kura Kaupapa Māori o Aotearoa, Awhimai has also recently completed her studies at Te Aupikitanga Ki Te Reo Kairangi and plans to continue her haerenga reo Māori with further study at Te Pīnakitanga ki te reo Kairangi. Awhimai works at the national opera company as Kaihere Ao, weaving together relationships between tangata whenua and the company.
With a passion for story telling and proudly carrying the strength of those before her, Awhimai dedicates all she does to her whaanau and their unyielding support.
Mareikura Nathan (Marei) (songwriter)
Kia ora rā, Ko Mareikura Nathan tēnei e mihi ana. 23 aku tau, e noho ana au ki Tamaki.
Iwi: Tuhoe, Te Whānau a Apanui, Ngāpuhi & Ngāti Whātua.
Occupation: I am a Full-time Content Creator at Whakaata Māori.
Laced in musical whakapapa, singing and songwriting have always been a part of Mareikura's life, during which she has grown to appreciate it.
Marei has a mesmerizing voice with an incredible amount of texture and tone. She credits her music mentors, Seth Haapu, Bella Kalolo Suraj, and many more, who generously offer advice and support.
Marei's music releases have included her first single, Rock Steady which was translated for Waiata Anthems - Tauānuku, produced by Seth Haapu. She has also featured on Seth Haapus's last album - Whaiora, on the waiata Hine ki te Ao Mārama.
However, her inspiration comes from her own musical whānau, and she has been working with her grandmother Whirimako Black and whanaunga Kings.
This year, Marei has her eyes set on recording and releasing her own EP.
Arahi Whaanga (songwriter)
Arahi is forging a distinctive path across Aotearoa, taking his place in time as one of our country’s most exceptional and visionary songwriters and live performers. With a fearless essence, Arahi skilfully weaves together timeless and modern melodies, infusing them with a captivating and unconventional allure.
Now Auckland based he collaborates with creatives of all disciplines, Arahi’s vision is unbound by media. Although a songwriter and performer by trade, Arahi’s talent reaches far and wide throughout the music industry - from writing soundtracks, performing on stage at festivals to theatre and screen work. Whatever the project, Arahi meticulously crafts thought-filled exhaustive experiences and is constantly pushing the boundaries of his artistry.
Arahi is best known for his solo projects and debut EP released in 2023 “Revelator,” which was produced by Dave Khan at Roundhead Studios in Auckland. Arahi has performed on the main stage at Outfield Festival, was on Nestfest’s 2024 lineup, has worked in the studio alongside Troy Kingi and has also joined Dave Dobbyn on the Black Barn stage for a special rendition of Welcome Home. In 2023 Arahi’s song ‘My Baby’s Like A Hurricane’ was nominated in the Top 20 APRA Silver Scroll Awards.
As a collaborator Arahi is one third of Māori rock trio ‘Te Tokotoru’, and one half of alt-folk duo ‘Pony Baby’.
Once referred to as “The Aotearoa Fantasy’ Arahi resembles a modern-day Prometheus - he ignites passion with his heartfelt sound leading us, gleaming, into the promised land.
Hana Mereraiha (mātanga reo)
Hana Mereraiha is a product of the Kōhanga Reo and Kura Kaupapa Māori language revitalisation movement. She is a graduate of Te Panekiretanga o Te Reo Māori (School of Excellence in the Māori Language) and is a reo Māori advisor, translator, composer and songwriter. Hana recently worked in the music team alongside Rob Ruha and Pere Wīhongi with Matewa Media, in the adaptation of Disney’s COCO into te reo Māori, following on from the success of Lion King Reo Māori and Frozen Reo Māori which she was also involved with. Hana has passionately supported established and emerging artists to reinterpret their waiata into Māori, including such artists as LORDE, Coterie, Tim Finn, Melodownz, RIIKI Reid, Muroki, Stan Walker, Majic Paora and many others.
Carwyn Ellis (songwriter)
A prolific figure on the U.K. indie pop scene, songwriter/multi-instrumentalist/producer Carwyn Ellis is perhaps best known for Colorama, a psychedelic-leaning project that has touched on soul, electro-pop, chamber pop, singer/songwriter folk, and experimentalism while keeping melodic pop at its core. The group's first album, Cookie Zoo, saw it’s release in 2008. Colorama's least eclectic release to date was 2017's Some Things Just Take Time, a spare tribute to classic American songwriters.
The last Colorama album, Chaos Wonderland was released in 2020. Also known for his work with Edwyn Collins and the Pretenders, he made his debut album as Carwyn Ellis & Rio 18 with the Brazilian pop-influenced Joia in 2019.
The like-minded Mas appeared in 2021, followed by Yn Rio, recorded with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. Since then, Carwyn has released music both solo and as a member of Rio 18. As a studio musician and producer, he has also worked with artists ranging from Oasis and UNKLE to Saint Etienne and Shane MacGowan.
Georgia Williams (songwriter)
Georgia Ruth is a musician from Aberystwyth in west Wales. Using folk influences to create a truly unique sound, her debut album Week of Pines won the Welsh Music Prize in 2013 and was nominated for two BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.
Georgia collaborated with The Manic Street Preachers on their 2014 album Futurology before releasing her second album, Fossil Scale in 2016. In 2020, Georgia released her third album – Mai – through Bubblewrap Records. Following this, she released an accompanying EP Mai: 2, featuring remixes from the likes of Gwenno, plus an EP of brand new music, ‘Kingfisher’, which was released in 2023.
2024 will see the release of Georgia’s fourth studio album.
Cat Southall (songwriter)
Welsh pop solo artist, songwriter, and session singer, Cat Southall, is riding high with her diverse profile and electrifying performances. From teaming up with icons to igniting the radio airwaves with her solo hits, Cat's journey is a shining example of unwavering dedication and love for music.
Cat's passion for music ignited early on, seizing every opportunity to shine—from captivating school gigs to enchanting classical recitals and rocking Welsh festivals like the Eisteddfod. Along the way, she shared stages with male voice choirs and lent her voice to Welsh TV shows, setting the stage for her incredible journey.
But Cat's not just a collaborator—she's a musical chameleon. From legends like the Manic Street Preachers, Bastille, and John Cale to Katherine Jenkins, Claire Martin, and Leona Lewis, Cat's versatility knows no bounds. Her stint with the Manics included arranging vocals and adding her unique touch to their chart-topping hits, before joining them live as their Guest vocalist.
Cat's solo career has been met with resounding applause. Her debut album 'Call Of Distress' soared with airplay, while her latest release, 'Popheart', serves up irresistible 70s/80s-inspired pop, stirring up a nostalgia storm. Her hit single 'Electric Lady' lit up the BBC Radio Wales A-List, earning accolades from top hosts and scoring a coveted live performance invitation at the BBC studios. Through her theatrical live shows and undeniable connection with audiences, Cat has earned a dedicated fan base and sold-out performances.
Alongside writing her own material, Cat's a collaborative force, co-writing with artists across genres and contributing to commissions and sync work for film and television.
Beyond her solo ventures, Cat's a genre-hopping collaborator and a philanthropic force. This summer, don't miss your chance to catch Cat and her dynamic new band heating up the stage, inviting you to dive into the pulsating rhythms of 'Popheart'.
Steffan Pringle (producer)
Steffan Pringle is a Producer, Recording Engineer, Mixer and Musician from Cardiff, United Kingdom.
He has worked on hundreds of songs and records with Uk and International Artists. Steffan is known for his work within the Indie pop and Alternative rock scene with His work racking up streams of well over 50 million. He has won the Welsh Music Prize 3 times.
Steffan Pringle has cemented his standing as a versatile and accomplished figure in the music industry, contributing extensively as a producer, mixer, engineer, and bassist for Estrons. Based in Cardiff, he has engaged in fruitful collaborations with diverse bands across renowned recording studios in the UK, demonstrating his expertise across various disciplines. With a specialization in guitar music, Steffan has engineered a diverse array of artists spanning different styles and genres, establishing himself as a respected authority in this field throughout his career.
Among Steffan's notable production credits are collaborations with prominent guitar bands such as the four-piece Himalayas, Adwaith, emerging indie talents The Pitchforks, Jack Perrett, London-based alt-rock trio Berries, and his own band, the four-piece Estrons. Notably, his production of Himalayas' "Thank God I'm Not You" has significantly contributed to the song's success, with streaming numbers on Spotify poised to surpass 7 million hits.
In addition to his production endeavors, Steffan has collaborated as an engineer with Boy Azooga and served as an assistant engineer on releases by esteemed acts including 2016 Mercury Prize nominee Seth Lakeman, Simple Minds, Charlotte Church, and Graveltones. Steffan's journey in the industry can be traced back to his early days as an assistant engineer at Monnow Valley Studio, renowned as one of the UK's premier recording destinations. The skills and knowledge he acquired during this formative period have played a pivotal role in shaping Steffan into the accomplished producer and mixer he is today.
His collaboration with Future Of The Left stands as a notable milestone in his career trajectory, continuing to earn him recognition and accolades. Steffan Pringle continues to make significant contributions to the music industry, leaving an indelible mark through his unwavering dedication and outstanding achievements.