Aro

**Aro** is a soulful New Zealand musical duo rooted in te ao Māori (Māori worldview), blending lush harmonies, indie-folk vibes, and traditional Māori instruments like the taonga pūoro. Composed of partners Emily Looker and Charles Looker (Ngāti Maniapoto, Waikato-Tainui), their music weaves te reo Māori (Māori language) and English, celebrating indigenous storytelling, environmental reverence, and ancestral connections. Tracks like *He Rākau, He Ngārara* and *Kia Mau* reflect their commitment to cultural revitalization, often drawing inspiration from native flora, fauna, and whakapapa (genealogy). With a warm, earthy sound and a focus on community, Aro’s live performances and recordings honor both modern creativity and timeless Māori traditions.