Kani Puru, an artist and performer, strives to evoke joy and inspire positive change through his artistry, drawing from his Maori (Aotearoa/New Zealand) heritage. Born into a rich cultural lineage, Kani’s ancestry traces back to both his parents’ roots, with his mother belonging to the Iwi of Ngati Maniapoto and the Hapu of Ngati Waiora, while his father’s side connects him to the Iwi of Waikato.

With a deep connection to his heritage, Kani incorporates elements of Maori tradition and storytelling into his performances. His experiences as a backing vocalist for Tones and I (2022–2023) and as a dance teacher/choreographer across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific since 2012 have allowed him to fuse cultural narratives with dynamic expression.
Kani has showcased his talents on various platforms, including Vocal Fusion TV Show, Australia’s Got Talent, and the World Hip Hop Championships. He is also passionate about contributing to community events and projects, such as New Year’s Eve celebrations and Tones and I’s “I’m Free” music video, where he continues to share his culture and inspire audiences worldwide.