New Zealand Rappers

List of the Top New Zealand Hip Hop Artists

With the global dominance of hip hop, New Zealand rappers have embraced this genre for quite some time now. As early as the late 1980s, traces of New Zealand hip hop began to emerge. Despite rugby, outdoor activities, and indigenous Maori culture being more popular in the country, hip hop has steadily gained traction year after year.

During the late 1980s, Upper Hutt Posse emerged as one of the pioneering New Zealand hip hop artists. By the 1990s, a flourishing rap and hip hop scene had taken shape in the country, featuring notable New Zealand rappers such as Che Fu, Dam Native, King Kapisi, Deceptikonz, Mareko, and others. Alongside these accomplished artists, New Zealand’s hip hop industry also produced several hit records like “In The Neighborhood” by Sisters Underground and “How Bizarre” by Otara Millionaires Club.

What set New Zealand hip hop apart was its incorporation of Polynesian culture into the music. This included intertwining Maori language and cultural elements with the American hip hop lifestyle. The fusion of these diverse influences created a distinct sound that resonated with audiences both locally and internationally.

Hip hop music in New Zealand has remained popular throughout the 2000s. New Zealand rappers such as Scribe, Savage, Ladi6, David Dallas, Nesian Mystik, Smashproof, Dei Hamo, Mareko, Young Sid (Sid Diamond), PNC, Tipene, Spycc, and many more have contributed to the development of New Zealand’s rap scene. Their contributions have laid a strong foundation for the current generation of artists like JessB, David Dallas, Poetik and Melodownz who are at the forefront of the country’s rap scene today.

Top 10 New Zealand Rappers

1. Kings

The Kings is a renowned New Zealand hip hop group that are known for their dynamic and engaging styles and personalities. Captivating hip hop fans of Oceania with their unique sound and authentic storytelling, their music not only showcases the diversity and richness of New Zealand’s music culture but also resonates with many across the region. The Kings have released number one hits like “6 Figures,” “Don’t Worry Bout It,” “Help Me Out,” and four albums including Chapter One in 2017 and LOV3 & 3GO in 2018.

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2. David Dallas

For the longest, David Dallas has been one of the top New Zealand rappers in hip-hop. His music is a reflection of his Kiwi roots, yet has gained international acclaim for its innovative sound and compelling lyrics. Dallas’ sound is unique, merging traditional hip hop beats with distinct New Zealand influences, making him a standout artist in the global music scene. His work embodies his creative prowess and his ability to resonate with diverse audiences. From his debut album to his latest releases, David Dallas continues to push boundaries, embodying the spirit of New Zealand’s vibrant music scene.

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3. JessB

JessB is a leading figure in the New Zealand hip hop scene. Known for her powerful lyrics she has made significant strides in a music genre traditionally dominated by men, making her a crucial voice for today’s generation. Her authentic storytelling and unique sound have earned her nationwide recognition and placed her at the forefront of New Zealand’s burgeoning hip hop landscape. Her catalog consists popular songs like “Bullseye,” “Mood,” and albums like New Views and Bloom.

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4. Poetik

Known for his profound lyricism and distinct style as one of the premiere New Zealand rappers, Poetik’s music has made a significant impact on the NZ music scene, pushing traditional hip hop. Poetik’s work is characterized by his ability to blend raw storytelling with a unique Pacific flavor, making him a standout figure in the industry. His contribution to NZ music has not only elevated the status of hip hop within the country, but also paved the way for other emerging artists in this genre.

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5. Melodownz

Melodownz, a dynamic and proficient New Zealand hip hop artist, consists of a distinctive style and innovative music have earned him a significant place in the Oceania rap scene. With his profound lyrics and unique beats, Melodownz manages to create a symbiosis of traditional hip hop elements with a modern twist, thus appealing to a broad spectrum of listeners. His artistry not only represents the thriving musical culture of New Zealand but also adds a fresh perspective. Melodownz has released popular “Infinite,” “The Anthem,” “Fine,” and “8ight 2wenty 8ight.”

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6. SWIDT

SWIDT is an acclaimed group of New Zealand rappers. They have left a significant imprint on the country’s music scene with their combining of traditional hip hop elements with a distinctive Kiwi twist. The group has been lauded for their impactful lyrics, which often delve into social commentary and personal narratives. Since their formation, SWIDT have behind hits like “312,” “Conquer,” “Praise,” “Little Did She Know,” “Kelz Garage,” “Who Run It,” and “Player of the Day.”

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7. CHAII

CHAII has been emerging talent in New Zealand hip hop. As a female artist, she delivers a powerful message through her music, showcasing cultural diversity. CHAII’s music is a unique blend of traditional Persian sounds and modern hip hop beats, reflecting her own multicultural background. She has carved out a niche for herself in the Oceania and has been recognized for her innovative style and lyrical prowess. CHAII is not only a testament to the growing diversity in New Zealand’s music scene but also an inspiration for aspiring female artists in the genre.

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8. Revus

Revus is a rising star in the rap and hip hop scene of New Zealand who has been gaining recognition for his lyrical prowess. His music blends contemporary hip hop beats with a distinct Kiwi flavor, resulting in a sound that is both familiar and fresh. Revus showcases his storytelling ability through his lyrics, often drawing from personal experiences and observations of his surroundings. His combination with his authentic lyrical content, sets him apart in New Zealand’s vibrant music industry. As Revus continues to make waves in the local scene, there’s no doubt that this talented artist has a promising future ahead.

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9. Church and AP

Church and AP are a dynamic rap and hip hop duo from New Zealand, known for their unique style and powerful lyricism. The pair gained recognition in their home country and beyond with their breakthrough hit “Ready or Not”, which showcased their ability to blend traditional hip hop elements with a distinctly Kiwi sensibility. Their music speaks to the experiences of the youth, navigating through themes of identity, cultural heritage, and regional lifestyles. Church and AP’s innovative sound and compelling narratives continue to push the boundaries of rap and hip hop in New Zealand, cementing their status as influential figures New Zealand hip hop.

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10. Raiza Biza

Raiza Biza, a notable rising New Zealand rapper that has been garnering attention for his lyrical ability. Born in Rwanda and raised in South Africa, Biza’s diverse background heavily influences his music, blending traditional African elements with contemporary hip hop beats. His approach to music is deeply introspective. Biza’s unique sound and poignant lyricism has solidified his place in New Zealand hip hop.

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New Zealand Hip Hop Related Topics:

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*Unofficial Order. The more popular artists that have a combination of the most followers, streams, views, and most recent releases are near the top.

*If any artists are missing from the list email media@kulturevulturez.com