“My songs try to encourage others to be proud of who you are, to stand strong, to holdfast to your culture.” - Haami
— 2021
Behind the man & songs
Haami is a bilingual singer-songwriter whose music is grounded in kapa haka and shaped by influences from country folk, rock and contemporary ballad. Known for his rich vocal arrangements and layered harmonies, Haami describes his approach to music simply as “sharing the love and the feels.”
Haami has worked alongside Te Kākano and the Matatini All Stars and is a member of the Tuari Brothers. As a member of the Tuari Brothers, he is a three-time Māori Music Award winner, an APRA Maioha Silver Scroll finalist, and an Aotearoa Music Awards finalist for Best Māori Artist.
As a solo artist, Haami first gained national attention with his debut single He Aio in 2021, which saw him named a finalist for the APRA Maioha Silver Scroll in 2022. His songwriting draws strongly on whakapapa, whānau, identity and connection to place, bringing these kaupapa together with contemporary songwriting and his distinctive approach to harmony.
Haami returned to Gisborne at the beginning of 2026 and is continuing to develop his work as both an artist, co-writer and vocal arranger. He is presently co-leading a Kapa Haka Vocal Arrangement Wānanga Series and completing filming for his next single.
Photography Credits: Erica Sinclair Photography
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