Haanaa Unveils Empowering New Single ‘Wahine Toa’ and Debut EP Tōku Ao
Haanaa Unveils Empowering New Single ‘Wahine Toa’ and Debut EP Tōku Ao
December 1st, 2025
Vocal and lyrical powerhouse Haanaa (Mātaatua, Tainui Waka) makes her official entrance into the Aotearoa music scene today with the release of her single ‘Wahine Toa’ and her first EP Tōku Ao. Together, the releases offer a deeply personal body of work shaped by resilience, motherhood, identity, and the courage it takes to be open and honest in a world that often demands otherwise.
‘Wahine Toa’, featuring the celebrated Maisey Rika, sits at the centre of the EP. The reo Māori waiata honours the quiet and powerful strength carried by wāhine, taking listeners through moments of challenge, perseverance, and self-belief. The single reflects the past three years for Haanaa, a period that required her to stand strong for herself and for her tamaiti.
“Life can be difficult and unexpected, but it’s how we continue to shine that makes the difference. Through this waiata, I offer tautoko and aroha to wāhine who are not alone in their struggles,” says Haanaa.
Together, Haanaa and Maisey share their experiences of motherhood, and remind listeners that every wahine is enough.
“Wahine Toa is for our kuia, māmā, sisters, daughters, and uri whakatupu. It’s for us. Let’s not forget how amazing we actually are, and what amazing things we can do as Wahine Toa,” says Haanaa.
Haanaa also acknowledges the special significance of collaborating with Maisey Rika.
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Maisey, who has been an inspiration to me since childhood. Working with her on one of my singles has been a dream come true, and her guidance and support have been invaluable. Her encouragement and belief in me made this experience so special. I thank her for sharing her wisdom and aroha. This will forever be a highlight of my musical journey.”
Her debut EP Tōku Ao expands these themes into a wider reflection on her journey, navigating dreams, internal battles, and her hopes for generations to come. The rich, expressive vocals of Haana are carried by the smooth foundations of reggae, rhythm and soul, shaped alongside collaborators Matt Sadgrove (Sons of Zion), Stephen Smalls, Asoiva Productions / Whetu Pirihi, Maisey Rika, and TAWAZ.
“Through my waiata, I want māmā, young wāhine and musicians to hear these experiences and see they are not alone.
Whether you are a single mum, an aspiring artist, or a wahine finding your way in this world – you have the strength to pursue your dreams, work hard and love yourself. I am in this haerenga alongside you,” says Haanaa.
With a background in kapa haka, Māori Performing Arts, teaching, and studying tikanga Māori at Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato, Haanaa brings both lived and learned experience into her songwriting. In 2024, she was named a finalist for Best Māori Female Solo Artist and Best Māori Songwriter at the Waiata Māori Music Awards.
‘Wahine Toa’ and Tōku Ao are available now on all streaming platforms.