
/wai . rua/
(noun) attitude, quintessence, mood, feeling, nature, essence, atmosphere.
Music with purpose
Founded in 2014, Wairua Sinfonietta is a leading Auckland-based orchestra dedicated to bringing people together through classical from the Western and New Zealand tradition. The name Wairua — meaning spirit in te reo Māori — combines wai (water) and rua (two), symbolising two streams merging into one. This reflects our kaupapa: connection, harmony, and unity through music.
As the only orchestra in Aotearoa New Zealand with a core focus on raising social awareness and supporting charitable causes, Wairua Sinfonietta blends musical excellence with purpose. Proceeds from our concerts go directly to partner charities, making each performance a meaningful contribution to our wider community.
Our ensemble brings together professional musicians, emerging artists, and talented young performers who share a passion for orchestral, high-calibre orchestral music. Our repertoire ranges from the great works of Beethoven, Mozart, and Haydn, to music by esteemed New Zealand composers such as Helen Fisher, Anthony Ritchie, and David Hamilton.
Through regular concerts, educational initiatives, and collaborations with guest soloists and composers, Wairua Sinfonietta strives to inspire audiences, foster community connections, and champion positive change - using music as a universal language of hope, identity, and unity.
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Support Wairua Youth Sinfonietta
WYS is entirely volunteer-led and relies on community support to provide accessible, quality orchestral training.
Those we serve
Proceeds from our concerts support these wonderful organisations