Maya Piata Shines at AAF2025
Tāmaki Makaurau was treated to an unforgettable celebration of indigenous music as part of the Auckland Arts Festival’s first-ever Indigenous Music on the Move series. Among the standout artists was Maya Piata, a Māori, Native American, and New Orleans Creole singer/songwriter who graced multiple stages across the city from March 18-21.
We managed a brief catch up with Maya after her performance at the Spiegeltent in Aotea Square and the Māngere Arts Centre and followed up our kōrero with a little Q+A.
For Maya, the experience of performing in the Indigenous Music on the Move series was nothing short of a dream come true.
“I’m proud to participate with all of the world's finest artists and creators.”
Sharing the stage with two highly acclaimed Hawaiian acts, Kulāiwi and Kaumakaiwa, was particularly special for her.
“It's everything. It's the past, the present, and the future, all happening at once. They're incredible, and I'm grateful to hear their stories, learn about their cultures, meet them as people, and connect our hearts.”
The festival also sparked thoughts of potential collaborations for Maya while in Aotearoa. Given the chance, she would love to work with Maisey Rika, Aaradhna, Sammy J, and Stan Walker—all artists she admires deeply.
“They are the bulk of my Spotify playlist. How cool would it be to be listening on Spotify and then hear both of our voices on a song? It's just surreal, but also so real.”
The festival, she said, reaffirmed her belief that “the surreal is real”—a place where dreams can truly come to life.
Music and artistry run deep in Maya’s lineage. With her mother having been part of the Kahurangi Māori Dance Theatre and her father a passionate music lover, creativity was a natural part of her upbringing.
“I’m the sum of both of their big, rich lives. That makes me feel like I’m walking in my purpose because I was created of music, art, and culture, and now I’m living it. I’m making my own to continue the legacy.”
She also spoke of her pride in being part of the Te Heuheu lineage, acknowledging the weight and honour of carrying forward such a rich heritage.
As for what she hoped festival-goers took away from her performances, Maya’s message was clear: “To choose to make their life worth living. To cultivate inner peace so that we may achieve world peace. And everybody has a part to play.”
With her powerful presence, deep cultural connections, and soul-stirring music, Maya Piata left her unique imprint on the Auckland Arts Festival. Those fortunate enough to witness her performances won’t soon forget the magic she brought to the stage.
