Wasabi is a vibrant community choir based in Queenstown, bringing people of all cultural backgrounds together through the shared joy of singing. Founded in 2015, Wasabi was originally created to help younger generations of Japanese in New Zealand stay connected to their roots through traditional Japanese songs.

Since then, the group has cherry blossomed into a warm, multicultural garden of diverse flowers, open to singers of all nationalities who share a love for music and harmony.

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Led by Meg Hirata—whose arrangements and radiant energy bring the group to life—Wasabi blends Japanese, Māori and English songs, from heartfelt ballads and folk tunes to contemporary pop. At its core, Wasabi believes that music has the power to uplift, connect, and inspire. Whether we’re rehearsing or performing, we aim to create music that touches the soul, builds bridges between cultures, and brings joy to singers and listeners alike.

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We welcome singers of all abilities who bring positive, cheerful energy to the group. To support everyone’s musical growth and balance, new members are kindly asked to start in our Wasabi Entrance Class—a fun and supportive space to build vocal skills, learn harmonies, and blend with others before joining the main choir.

The main Wasabi Choir meets on Fridays (during term time) from 7–9pm in the Puāwai Room at Te Atamira, and focuses on harmony singing, performance preparation, and community events.

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If you love singing, enjoy learning, and want to be part of something joyful and inclusive, we’d love you to come and join us!

Koha is appreciated for the main choir to help support room hire and group activities, and a small fee applies for the Entrance Class to help cover costs. We keep things as affordable as possible so everyone can feel welcome❤️

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“Sometimes the best things in life are priceless — a sunset’s glow, a song shared with friends, a moment that touches your soul. Those treasures can’t be bought or sold, because their value is in the joy they bring.”‍

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