'THE POWER OF A SINGALONG'

The popstar and the broadcaster have combined their talents for another hit!

- Kasia De Vydt-Jillings

Whether she's performing the national anthem in a packed stadium, championing music therapy or working behind the scenes supporting other musicians, Dame Hinewehi Mohi has a gift for bringing people together through music.

Now, alongside close friend Stacey Morrison, she's on a mission to unite Kiwis everywhere through joyful, waiata singalongs.

"It's kind of been an obsession of mine for a few decades, how the impact of waiata and in particular singing together is so glorious," explains Hinewehi, 60.

This year, the Māori mavens have been organising and leading singalongs at stadiums and sports games around the country.

While waiata are an integral custom on the marae and in many Māori settings, they say singing in a group in public is something many adults rarely get the opportunity to do.

"Music brings us together and is the perfect vehicle for accessing te reo Māori, and better understanding the culture and ourselves as New Zealanders," says Hinewehi.

So far this year, they've united thousands in waiata at games for the Blues, Warriors, Black Ferns, Māori All Blacks and the Mystics versus Tactix netball final.

Says Stacey, "I had some cool feedback at the netball when an older woman said, 'I can't believe I still remember Tutira Mai Ngã Iwi from primary school.' We're activating memories."