Awhimai Fraser. The name resonates with a vibrant energy, embodying the spirit of a true multidisciplinary creative from Aotearoa, New Zealand. From her captivating voice work for global animation powerhouses to her commanding presence on television screens and theatre stages, Fraser is quickly becoming a name to know. Her journey showcases a remarkable blend of cultural heritage, exceptional talent, and a tireless dedication to her craft, making her an exciting figure in both local and international entertainment.
This flagship hub celebrates the depth and breadth of her career, offering a comprehensive look at the movies, TV shows, stage performances, and voice work that define her impressive trajectory. To truly understand the person behind these captivating performances, including her roots and training, we invite you to delve into her origins and path to stardom by exploring Awhimai Frasers biography Awhimai Frasers early career journey.
A Star Rises from Aotearoa: Awhimai Fraser's Journey to Global Stages
Awhimai Fraser's artistic journey is deeply rooted in her Māori heritage, with whakapapa to Waikato, Ngāti Pūkenga, Ngāi Tāmanuhiri, and Ngāti Kahungunu. A graduate of Whitireia Performing Arts, she possesses a rich skillset spanning acting, singing (from mezzo to soprano), dancing, and even playing the piano. Her natural warmth and energetic presence, whether singing for an original motion picture soundtrack or presenting a television commercial, have made her a standout talent.
It's this unique blend of skills and authentic charisma that has propelled her onto significant stages, most notably her pivotal contributions to Disney. Her involvement in major animated films, both original and dubbed, perfectly illustrates her global appeal and vocal prowess.
The Disney Magic: From Aotearoa to Moana 2 and Beyond
One of the most significant highlights of Awhimai Fraser's career to date is her role as Matangi in Disney's highly anticipated Moana 2 (2024). Not only does she lend her voice to this beloved character, but her contributions to the film’s original motion picture soundtrack have also earned industry recognition, including nominations for an American Music Award and a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture. This role is a testament to her powerful vocal abilities and her capacity to bring animated characters to life with depth and emotion.
Beyond Moana 2, Fraser's connection to Disney runs deeper, showcasing her commitment to making global stories accessible in Te Reo Māori. She has voiced iconic characters such as Dolores in Encanto (Te Reo Maori) (2024) and Elsa in Frozen (Te Reo Maori) (2022), endearing her to a new generation of Māori speakers. Her ability to embody these characters across languages speaks volumes about her talent and dedication. To get a closer look at these and other pivotal roles, you can Explore Awhimai Frasers roles Discover her most impactful work across her career.
A Versatile Talent: Beyond the Silver Screen
While her Disney work has brought her international attention, Awhimai Fraser's career is a rich tapestry woven with diverse experiences across various mediums. Her television presence is notable, with core cast roles as Maia in Toi Time! Season I-IV (2022-2025) and Chantelle in Ahikaroa: season I-IV (2017-2021). She also made an appearance as Becky Burrows in the long-running New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street (2018).
Her theatrical background is equally impressive, featuring performances as Maia in Toi Time: Live Concert (2024), Hana in The Beautiful Ones (2015), and diverse roles in productions like The Mystery of Edwin Drood (2015) and Red Riding Hood (2014). Fraser's musical theatre résumé includes lead roles such as Cinderella in Into The Woods (2017) and Sandy in Grease (2014), highlighting her incredible vocal range and stage presence. For a comprehensive list of all her screen and stage credits, from her early theatre days to her most recent voice work, take a look at the Awhimai Fraser films and TV shows she has been a part of.
Her extensive voice acting portfolio extends beyond Disney, with roles like Pungawerewere/Spider in Buzz the Cuzz S2 (2025) and various vocal contributions to projects like Tangata Pai (2025) and The Lullaby Project (2020-2024) with NZ Opera & Carnegie Hall. Fraser's adaptability and vocal skills are truly boundless, making her a sought-after talent in the voiceover industry.
The Road Ahead: What's Next for Awhimai Fraser
Awhimai Fraser's journey is far from over, with several exciting projects on the horizon. Fans can anticipate her continued voice work in Buzz the Cuzz S2 and Tangata Pai in 2025. Her live performance schedule also promises captivating experiences, including appearing as Matangi in Get Lost (live at SiriusXM) with Emily Bear in 2025 and as a soloist with the Auckland Philharmonia for Hans Zimmer - The Art of the Score (2025).
With her recent training at the Te Puhi Actors Workshop (2025) and ongoing participation in prestigious projects like The Lullaby Project, Fraser continues to refine her craft and explore new artistic avenues. These upcoming projects promise to further solidify her standing as a versatile and impactful artist. To stay updated on her latest appearances and future announcements, be sure to check out Awhimai Fraser projects and casting.
As Awhimai Fraser continues to captivate audiences and receive industry accolades, her star will undoubtedly rise even higher. Her integral role in projects like Moana 2, which has already garnered significant nominations, hints at a future rich with recognition. To understand the full scope of her achievements and the critical acclaim she has received, we invite you to consult the Awhimai Fraser Awards Guide Explore Awhimai journey to critical recognition.
Awhimai Fraser is more than just an actress; she is a cultural ambassador, a powerful vocalist, and a dynamic performer who brings heart and authenticity to every role. As she continues to grace our screens, stages, and headphones, we look forward to witnessing the ongoing evolution of this remarkable talent and the indelible mark she will surely leave on the world of entertainment.