Ria Hall

Ria Hall is a New Zealand Māori singer, songwriter, and television presenter. Hall is known for her powerful vocals, genre-bending music that blends elements of reggae, soul, hip-hop, and Māori musical traditions, and her strong advocacy for Māori language and culture.

Hall first gained prominence through collaborations with Trinity Roots and Fat Freddy's Drop. Her debut self-titled EP, Ria Hall, was released in 2011. She has since released several critically acclaimed albums, including Rules of Engagement (2017), which explored historical accounts of Māori land confiscations, and Manawa Wera (2023), which celebrates the strength and resilience of Māori women.

Hall's music often incorporates te reo Māori (the Māori language), aiming to revitalize and promote its use. She is a strong advocate for indigenous rights and cultural preservation, using her platform to raise awareness of social and political issues affecting Māori communities.

In addition to her musical career, Hall has also worked as a television presenter, including hosting the Māori language learning program Ako. She is a significant figure in contemporary Māori culture and the New Zealand music scene.