From New Zealand Stage To Disney Villain: Awhimai Fraser's 7 Must-See Movies And TV Shows

Awhimai Fraser has rapidly become one of the most exciting and versatile talents to emerge from Aotearoa New Zealand, culminating in a major voice role in one of the biggest animated films of the year, *Moana 2* (2024). Her career, which spans theatre, television, and voice acting, showcases a deep commitment to her craft and her Māori heritage, making her a true multi-disciplinary creative. This article, updated in late 2024, dives into her essential filmography and television roles, highlighting the projects that define her impactful journey.

Fraser's work is notable for its cultural significance, including her involvement in Te Reo Māori language projects, cementing her status not just as an actress, but as a cultural advocate. Her transition from the Wellington stage to the global Disney spotlight is a compelling story that fans of New Zealand and international cinema will want to follow closely.

Awhimai Fraser: Complete Biography and Profile

Awhimai Fraser is a celebrated New Zealand singer, actress, songwriter, and multi-disciplinary creative, known for her powerful stage presence and versatile voice work. She has a strong connection to her Māori roots, with whakapapa to Waikato, Ngāti Pūkenga, Ngāi Tāmanuhuri, and Ngāti Kahungunu.

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• Full Name: Awhimai Fraser
• Occupation: Actress, Singer, Songwriter, Voice Artist, Creative Producer
• Nationality: New Zealander (Māori)
• Iwi/Hapū: Waikato, Ngāti Pūkenga, Ngāi Tāmanuhuri, Ngāti Kahungunu
• Current Residence: Auckland, New Zealand
• Spouse: James Tito
• Languages: English, Te Reo Māori
• Height: 175 cm (5'9")
• Key Roles: Matangi (*Moana 2*), Maia (*Toi Time!*), Chantelle (*Ahikāroa*)
• Theatre Highlights: Lead roles in *The Mystery of Edwin Drood* and *Grease* (as Sandy)

The Cinematic Breakthrough: Voice Roles and Feature Films

Fraser’s career reached a new international peak with her casting in a major Disney animated sequel. Her voice work is celebrated for its clarity and emotional depth, qualities that have also made her a sought-after voice artist for culturally significant dubbing projects.

1. Moana 2 (2024) as Matangi (Voice)

The most significant entry in Awhimai Fraser's filmography is the Disney animated feature *Moana 2*. She voices the new villain, Matangi, a powerful and mysterious figure who serves as the antagonist in Moana’s expansive new journey.

This role is a massive career milestone, placing her in a global spotlight and showcasing her ability to bring complex, compelling characters to life through voice acting. The film, which reunites Moana and Maui, was released on November 27, 2024, and introduced Fraser’s voice to millions worldwide.

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2. Te Reo Māori Disney Dubs (Voice)

Demonstrating her commitment to the revitalization of the Māori language, Fraser has lent her voice to the Te Reo Māori dubs of two major Disney films. These projects are crucial cultural initiatives in Aotearoa.

• Elsa in *Frozen Te Reo* (Voice): Taking on the iconic role of Elsa, Fraser showcased her powerful singing and acting skills in the Māori language version of the global hit.
• Dolores in *Encanto Te Reo* (Voice): She also voiced the character Dolores in the Te Reo Māori version of *Encanto*, further cementing her status as a leading Māori voice artist.

Essential Television and Streaming Series

Before her Disney fame, Awhimai Fraser was a familiar face on New Zealand television, starring in popular series that ranged from educational children's shows to long-running dramas. Her versatility across genres has been a hallmark of her television career.

3. Toi Time! (2022–2025) as Maia

*Toi Time!* is a popular New Zealand children's television show, and Awhimai Fraser is a core cast member, playing the character Maia. The show, which is highly educational and often incorporates Te Reo Māori, has run for multiple seasons (I-IV), making it one of her longest and most consistent television commitments.

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In this role, she engages audiences alongside co-presenters like Erroll Anderson (Tama) and Taylor Rogers (Jojo), blending dance, music, and language education. The show has also featured live concert performances, demonstrating the interactive nature of the project.

4. Ahikāroa (TV Series) as Chantelle

Fraser also had a notable role in the contemporary New Zealand drama series *Ahikāroa*, where she played the character Chantelle. The show is known for its modern portrayal of Māori life and culture, often featuring dialogue in both English and Te Reo Māori. Her involvement in this series highlights her contribution to modern Māori storytelling on screen.

5. Shortland Street (TV Series) as Becky Burrows

The long-running New Zealand soap opera *Shortland Street* is a rite of passage for many Kiwi actors, and Awhimai Fraser is no exception. She played the character Becky Burrows, gaining experience in a fast-paced, high-volume production environment. Her appearance in this show is an important part of her early television journey.

Beyond the Screen: Notable Theatre and Short Film Work

Awhimai Fraser is a classically trained performer whose foundation lies in theatre and musical stage work. Her commitment to the stage is a key factor in her dynamic performance style.

6. The Mystery of Edwin Drood (Theatre)

Fraser's theatre career is impressive, featuring a major role in *The Mystery of Edwin Drood* at the prestigious Circa Theatre in Wellington. She played the triple role of Edwin Drood / Dick Datchery / Alice Nutting, a performance that required immense versatility and stagecraft.

7. Grease (Musical Theatre) as Sandy

A testament to her singing and acting abilities, Fraser took on the iconic role of Sandy in the musical production of *Grease* for the Wellington Musical Theatre in 2014. This role demonstrated her musical theatre chops, which she continues to utilize in her songwriting and singing career.

Other Notable Roles and Projects

Fraser's extensive portfolio also includes other projects that showcase her diverse talents:

• *Red Riding Hood* (Theatre): She played the title role of Red Riding Hood at Circa Theatre in 2014.
• *Vermillion* (Short Film): An early credit in her filmography that demonstrates her initial foray into screen acting.
• The Lullaby Project: A long-running creative project (2020-2024) where she works as a practitioner, singer, and songwriter.

Awhimai Fraser’s career trajectory, from the Wellington stage to voicing a major Disney villain, is a powerful indicator of her talent and dedication. Her work in *Moana 2* as Matangi is a landmark achievement, but her continuous contributions to Māori language media and New Zealand arts through shows like *Toi Time!* and her theatre work truly define her as a unique and essential creative force.