Awhimai Fraser
Awards & Honours
1
Awards Won
1
Honours
9
Records
Awhimai Fraser's journey as a multidisciplinary Māori artist has brought fresh energy to New Zealand's creative scene and beyond, especially through her innovative voice work in Disney projects. She has pioneered the use of Te Reo Māori in major films, voicing characters in adaptations like Moana 2, Frozen, and Encanto, which has helped elevate Indigenous stories on a global stage. Her roles in popular TV series such as Toi Time! and Ahikāroa showcase her versatility across acting, singing, and performance, building a dedicated following. Fraser's early achievements, including competing in international arts events and leading in NZ Opera, highlight her as a rising talent who bridges cultures. At just over a decade into her career, she has already notched several firsts, like being among the first to adapt Disney classics into Māori, inspiring young artists and proving the power of diverse voices in entertainment. Her milestones reflect a commitment to heritage that resonates widely, making her a celebrated figure in Aotearoa and internationally.
Awards
Honours & Distinctions
Recognition for Māori Cultural Contributions
Honored for voice work in Reo Māori adaptations, including Matangi in Moana 2, Elsa in Frozen, and Dolores in Encanto, advancing Indigenous representation in global media
Records & Feats
First Māori Voice Actress for Major Disney Villain
Voiced Matangi in Moana 2, marking the first significant Disney villain role for a New Zealand-based Māori performer
Pioneering Reo Māori Disney Dubbing
Provided voice for Elsa in Frozen Reo Māori, expanding Indigenous language access in international films
Early Career Competition Milestone
Competed in the World Championships of Performing Arts in Los Angeles at age 19, showcasing emerging talents
Recurring Television Role
Appeared in four seasons of Ahikāroa, establishing a strong presence in New Zealand TV
Children's Series Role
Starred in three seasons of Toi Time! as Maia, engaging young audiences with educational content
Voice Role in Golden Globe-Nominated Film
Voiced Matangi in Moana 2, which received a nomination for Best Motion Picture – Animated at the 2025 Golden Globes.
Contribution to AMA-Nominated Soundtrack
Performed on the Moana 2 original motion picture soundtrack, which was nominated for Best Motion Picture Soundtrack at the American Music Awards.
Lead Role in NZ Opera Production
Performed as Taurima in a New Zealand Opera production after completing a full-immersion Te Reo Māori course.
Multidisciplinary Pioneer from Māori Iwi
As a first-generation creative with ties to Ngāti Pūkenga, Ngāi Tāmanuhiri, and Ngāti Kahungunu, she bridges Māori heritage with global entertainment projects.