Waiata Workshops and Resources
Many people feel shy singing in front of others — especially when it comes to group waiata.
But with the right vocal coaching and a clear understanding of how your voice works, you can build confidence, strengthen your voice, and step up to lead waiata tautoko with ease.
My waiata workshops provide:
Vocal training grounded in vocal science
Simple exercises to strengthen and support your voice
Expert tips to perfect your te reo Māori pronunciation
Guidance to confidently choose, start, and lead waiata
A fun, supportive environment for every experience level
Say goodbye to the awkward “What are we going to sing?” moments during mihi whakatau and pōwhiri. These workshops empower kaimahi to use waiata naturally and confidently as part of their everyday workplace culture.
Waiata Workshop with Tāmaki Regeneration
Waiata Workshop with Auckland City Libraries
What people are saying about Waiata Workshops…
‘Waiata workshops have made me feel more confident in my te reo pronunciation and singing ability.
Hinekoia has created a positive and supportive environment, a safe space where it’s ok to ask questions and make mistakes. She goes to great lengths to make the classes fun and enjoyable.’
Sonya Nagles (Public Programmes Coordinator Maritime Museum)
You were great at welcoming everyone into singing the waiata and learning actions, it was such a fun, relaxed and thoroughly enjoyable session.
Ellie Lim (Public Programme Producer Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki)
After the Waiata workshop last week I joined kaimahi (staff) in singing ‘Nei rā te kaupapa’ with no advance planning - and without a lyric sheet!
It felt really good to be contributing meaningfully and singing along with our kaimahi Māori rather than mumbling at the edges. It meant so much to me - ngā mihi nui!
Kaimahi - Auckland City Libraries
I've done Te Reo classes before, to improve my pronunciation, and learn basic vocabulary, but I found these sessions much more helpful with pronunciation than any classes I've been too.
Seonaid - Auckland City Libraries
I enjoyed learning the waiata and gaining specific knowledge about pronunciation. You took me to a new level and I have been practicing that in my everyday kōrero.
Jilly - Talking Matters
From a one off workshop, to a series of workshops, everything is tailored to meet the needs of you, your Kaimahi (staff) and business.
Let’s kōrero about how we can work together!
Waiata Workshop at Auckland City Libraries
Organisations that have worked with us
Waiata Resources
I provide everything your kaimahi need to grow their confidence, strengthen their voices, and lead their own in-house waiata sessions. All resources are tailored to your chosen waiata and support every stage of the learning journey.
Your resource package can include:
High-quality recordings of each waiata (guitar, lead vocal, and harmonies)
Backing tracks for individual or group practice
Te reo Māori pronunciation videos for every waiata
Te reo lyrics paired with English translations
Video demonstrations of actions for action songs
Vocal training videos (warm-ups, posture, breathing, projection)
“How to run a waiata practice group” training video
Let’s kōrero about the resources that will best support your kaimahi and help embed waiata confidently into your workplace culture.