Interview - NZ Music Month Summit's Noema Te Hau III - 1st May 2026

1 May

The theme of this year's NZ Music Month is 'Our Sounds, Our Spaces' - which the summit highlights perfectly, not only with its setting of The Tuning Fork but also through the incredible voices they have as a part of the day.

Interview By: Bridget Herlihy

Interviewee: Noema Te Hau III

Date: 1st May 2026

Noema Te Hau III is an acclaimed, award-winning Aotearoa-based songwriter and producer. After training at the Music and Audio Institute of New Zealand (MAINZ), he spent time there as a lecturer and tutor before relocating to Big Fan Studios in Morningside, Auckland. Noema is one of the guest speakers at this year's New Zealand Music Month Summit, which is taking place at the Tuning Fork in Auckland on Saturday 2nd May. The theme of NZMM for 2026 is 'Our Sounds, Our Spaces' . Noema will appear as one of the panelists for the 'Ko Tō Tātou Reo, Ko Tō Tātou Oro (Our Language, Our Sound)' session, which will also feature MOHI and Rukuwai Tipene-Allen, and moderated by Sarah Owen (Māori Music Industry Collective). We asked Noema a few questions about his experiences of working collaboratively and building strong relationships based on Maori values both in and out of the studio.

How did you come to be working within the waiata reo Māori and waiata reo rua spaces?

I came into that space through songwriting camps like the Reo Māori SongHubs. It was the first time I was surrounded by other Māori creatives navigating similar experiences in the industry. From there, I realised I could contribute meaningfully as a producer and songwriter, especially by supporting artists who carry the language and cultural depth more fluently than I do.

What makes waiata reo Māori and waiata reo rua the most distinct sounds of Aotearoa at the moment?

It’s the connection to whakapapa, our stories, our legends, our experiences and language. There’s a depth and intention behind the lyrics and delivery that feels uniquely grounded here. Even across different genres, that cultural foundation gives the music a tone and emotional weight that stands apart globally.

What are the key Māori values that are upheld/applied within the creative and recording processes?

Whanaungatanga is a big one, building genuine relationships and trust in the room. Manaakitanga as well, making sure everyone feels respected and supported creatively. And whakaaro nui, taking care and intention with what’s being said, especially when working with te reo Māori and cultural narratives.

Do you have any advice for musicians and creatives who are wanting to explore waiata reo Māori and waiata reo rua further?

Approach it with confidence, especially if it feels natural to your art. If the language connects with what you’re trying to express, don’t be afraid to use it creatively. At the same time, stay open to learning and collaboration working with people who have a strong connection to te reo Māori will help you deepen both your understanding and the integrity of the work.

The 2026 Official New Zealand Music Summit, Saturday 2nd May 2026, 10.45am - 4.30pm. Register for free tickets through moshtix.co.nz