Ngāi Tai, Ngāti Maniapoto, Hawaiian (Molokaʻi-nui-a-Hina)
Actor • Singer • Dancer
Matahiapo-Waimarie Maxwell (17) is an emerging Māori–Hawaiian performer with a strong foundation in musical theatre, and contemporary performance. A total-immersion graduate of Wharekura o Ngāti Rongomai with University Entrance and a Te Reo Māori Scholarship, she brings bilingual fluency and cultural depth to her work.
She has quickly built an impressive stage portfolio across Rotorua, Tauranga and Waikato, with standout lead roles including Stella in Whetūrangihia and Lisa in Ladies in Black (RMT, 2025). Her credits span major productions such as Hairspray, Phantom of the Opera, In the Heights, The Colour Purple and Sister Act, supported by extensive experience in vocal competitions, hip hop performance, and community music events.
Matahiapo-Waimarie has trained with leading industry tutors including Bree Peters, Kawiti Waetford, Massive Theatre Company, and Miriama McDowell through The Actors Programme, Auckland. She was also highlighted to casting directors internationally during the 2023 Moana casting process.
Committed, versatile and creatively intuitive, Matahiapo-Waimarie is a rising young performer with natural screen presence and strong musical theatre capability.
