2023 Waiata Māori Music Awards Finalists Announced

3 August 2023

Taking place in September, the finalists for the 16th Waiata Māori Music Awards have been announced. The theme for this year’s awards is ‘Nā parekura ko kahukura’ (meaning ‘disasters are blue’), reflecting on the ongoing impact Cyclone Gabrielle has inflicted on East Coast communities this year. Parekura refers to a tragedy that involves the loss of life and kahukura means rainbow – a symbol of hope and promise.

“Together, the phrase Nā parekura ko kahukura reminds us that even in the face of tragedy and adversity, there is always the potential for growth and renewal. It encourages us to look for the rainbow after the storm, and to hold onto hope for a brighter future.

This year we also want to use our key music events as a medium to inspire people during their recovery journey. We want them to see there is light at the end of the tunnel and to hold on to hope for a brighter future.” — Waiata Māori Music Awards executive director Ellison Huata

2023 Waiata Māori Music Awards Finalists

Te Tohu Kaipuoru Te Reo Māori
Best Te Reo Māori Album

Chey Milne – Whaikōrero Raps 2
Rei – Ariki
ORA (Origin Roots Aotearoa) – He Reo Ora
Tuari Brothers – Rongo

Te Tohu Kaipūoru Māori Noho Taone Autaia
Best Hip-Hop Album By A Māori Artist

Rei – Ariki
Tuari Brothers – Rongo
Chey Milne – Whaikōrero Raps 2
Tipene – We No Muck Around

Te Tohu Kōpaeroa Autaia
Best Roots Reggae Album By A Māori Artist

NLC – On the Fly
Israel Starr – Keepers of the Flame
ORA (Origin Roots Aotearoa) – He Reo Ora
Chad Chambers – Nāti Shores

Te Tohu Kaipūoru Aratini Māori Autaia
Best Māori Pop Album

Valkyrie – Joyride
Tuari Brothers – Rongo
Rei – Ariki
Coterie – Coterie

Te Tohu Manu Tioriori Tāne Autaia
Best Māori Male Solo Artist

Seth Haapu
Rākai Whauwhau
Rei
MOHI
Tipene

Te Tohu Manu Tioriori Wahine Autaia
Best Māori Female Solo Artist