ALTO

Melissa (Ngāti Mutunga) is an educator, educational coach, singer, and conductor based in South Auckland. With over 20 years of experience, her professional background is rooted in education, where she has served as a classroom teacher, music specialist, and leader. She currently holds the position of Deputy Principal at Māngere East School.
Her passion for choral music began at an early age, singing in her primary school choir and later as a member of Aorere College Choir and Auckland Youth Choir. This love for music is a family affair, as she and her husband are raising four children who all love to sing. Melissa’s expertise and commitment to vocal excellence have made her a valued contributor to numerous projects, including national and international tours and high-profile concert events.
A foundation member of the Graduate Choir NZ since 2001, Melissa is also a member of Voices NZ Chamber Choir and serves on the NZCF Governance Board. Recently, she performed twice with the Auckland-based Signature choir in the Mana Moana shows at Spark Arena. Melissa has a deep passion for the arts and all things Māori, leading kapa haka groups, choirs, and professional development sessions for teachers. Service has always been a core value for her, guiding her involvement in various committees and boards over the years.