Celebrity Speakers - Book inspirational and motivational speakers & entertainers for corporate, association & social events

Moana Maniapoto speaks with intelligence, passion and humour. She captures audiences of all ages with stories that reflect her rich life as a musician, documentary-maker, writer, advocate, former television presenter, actor, radio talkback host, law graduate and mother.

Moana's main claim to fame is music. She has consistently pushed the boundaries of New Zealand music by fusing the best from traditional Maori and contemporary western worlds and wrapping it up in lyrics that talk of her love for Aotearoa. Her songs speak of Maori values that are universally applicable.

Moana has toured her band overseas and released four albums and a music DVD (the first of its kind from NZ). In 2003, Moana & the Tribe represented NZ in the Cultural Olympiad (Greece), the only Kiwi group to perform on the ancient ground of Olympia. In 2004, she became the first non-American to win a major USA song competition. That was followed up with a Queens Birthday honor – the MNZM for services to Maori and Music. And in 2005, she was awarded Te Tohu Mahi Hou a Te Waka Toi, in recognition of outstanding leadership and contribution to the development of new directions in Maori art.

An articulate and passionate speaker, Moana believes cultural pride and knowledge can have a significant impact in terms of personal and career development. Moana encourages her audience to challenge themselves, learn new skills, and take risks.

She speaks about the challenge of following her dreams, overcoming her own insecurities and running a small business. Most importantly, she urges individuals and all New Zealanders to be proud of who they are and where they come from.