Waiata Workshops and Resources

Photo credit: Den O’Keeffe

Waiata is for everyone — and so are these workshops!

I run fun, inclusive waiata sessions for teams of all backgrounds and confidence levels, packed with top pronunciation hacks, uplifting waiata, gentle vocal warm-ups, and plenty of laughs.

It’s a feel-good way to build connection, boost confidence, strengthen team culture and learn more about Te Reo Māori and how to confidently waiata — all rolled into one.

‘We absolutely loved having Hinekoia at the Auckland Folk Festival. She is spectacular! She worked with large groups of people of all ages, capably sharing her knowledge at workshops for both kids and adults

We were thrilled to hear everyone joining in for a group waitaia during our final showcase concert. It was an incredibly special moment. 

Emily Roughton (Programme Coordinator - Auckland Folk Festival)

What people are saying about Waiata Workshops…

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)

‘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.

Sonya Nagles (Public Programmes Coordinator Maritime Museum)

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!

Photo credit: Den O’Keeffe

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.

Photo credit: Den O’Keeffe