AJA
ARTIST PROFILE
AJA (Aja Wairere Ropata) is a powerful Ngāti Raukawa, Te Āti Awa ki Whakarongotai, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, and Ngāti Porou singer-songwriter and composer based in Wellington/Pōneke. With over two decades of performance experience—initially with the band Aio and later as a solo artist—she blends soul, RnB, gospel, reggae, and te reo Māori into a distinctive "kaupapa Māori pop" sound.
Her solo career launched in 2019 with the single Non‑Handler, followed by Kāwai in 2020, and more recent tracks like Feel It (2023) and True Love. She co-wrote and released Te Iho, which won the prestigious 2022 APRA Maioha Silver Scroll for its graceful te reo Māori lyrics celebrating wāhine/wāhine Māori strength and lineage.
In late 2024, AJA released her debut album KĀWAI, a bilingual, soulful journey reflecting on whakapapa, motherhood, te ao Māori and Pākehā, and personal growth. The album was produced in collaboration with Mara TK and features contributions from whānau and local artists across Wellington and Ōtautahi.
Connection to Kāpiti / Horowhenua
AJA's whakapapa and marae ties are rooted in Waikanae . Her 2023 waiata “Te Reo ki Whakarongotai” is a heartfelt tribute to Whakarongotai Marae and the Āti Awa ki Whakarongotai iwi. Co-written with her uncle Kahu Ropata and sister Trey, the song celebrates their ancestral language, traditions, and cultural knowledge passed down through generations.
Musical genre and vibe
Contemporary / Classic
Jazz / Blues