Ria Hall

Ria Hall is a neo-soul singer/songwriter from Tauranga, New Zealand whose Maori heritage and culture serve as major influences on her art, both in terms of themes and sonic qualities.  Blending soul, trip hop, and R&B, Ria Hall’s sound is emotive and modern, but the roots of her art burrow deep into the Maori history of spirituality and protest.  Ria Hall’s debut full-length album Rules of Engagement debuted at number two on the iTunes charts in New Zealand and Australia, and is now available via digital download in the US.

city guide:
Tauranga, NZ
food
Satori Lounge
Fresh sushi and Japanese fusion served in a warm, minimalist environment.   "My fave dish is the Satori Yakimeshi. Yummo!"  — Ria Hall
309 Maunganui Road, Tauranga, New Zealand
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bar
Harbourside
"They offer amazing cocktails, amazing food in a stunning setting! I love the Mojito."  —  Ria Hall
150 The Strand, Tauranga, New Zealand
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coffee
Le Petit Four Café and Patisserie
Traditional French café and patisserie offering fresh bread and pastries, plus coffee and light eats.   "Long black with a dash of cream is my go to!"  —  Ria Hall
65 Chapel St, Tauranga, New Zealand
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hotel
Hotel on Devonport
Sleek, modern hotel overlooking the harbor in downtown Tauranga.   "It’s a little bit luxurious but well worth it."  —  Ria Hall
72 Devonport Road, Tauranga, New Zealand
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theater
Baycourt Community and Arts Centre
Baycourt is the Bay of Plenty's premiere performance art space.  This diverse arts community center stages performances of all kinds, from drama and dance to live music and educational programs.  Baycourt is dedicated to supporting the local arts scene, but also hosts many international touring artists each year.
38 Durham St, Tauranga, New Zealand
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theater
Totara St.
Totara St. is the live performance venue of the Mauao PAC, a community center dedicated to supporting local music and performance art in the greater Tauranga area.  The 423 square-meter space is perfect for intimate performances, but can host crowds of up to 400 people.
11 Totara Street, Tauranga, New Zealand
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bar
Flannagan’s Sportsbar
Classic Irish pub and sports bar with beers on tap, pub grub, and karaoke nights.
14 Hamilton St, Tauranga, New Zealand
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shopping
High St. Boutique
"They dress me and are the most lovely ladies!!"  —  Ria Hall
76 Devonport Rd, Tauranga, New Zealand
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landmark
Mauao
Mauao, or Mount Maunganui is an extinct volcano that overlooks Tauranga Harbor in New Zealand.  Mauao is considered a very sacred place by the local Maori population, and is featured heavily in their traditional myths.  Visitors are invited to hike the trails and enjoy the spectacular views, and hopefully experience and appreciate the sacred nature of this ancient site.
Mount Maunganui, Tauranga, Bay Of Plenty, New Zealand
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food
Copenhagen Cones
Locally-loved ice cream shop situated at the base of Mount Maunganui
14 Adams Ave, Tauranga, New Zealand
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related