She's a Disney princess for a new generation.

Disney has introduced its first Polynesian princess in the trailer for new film Moana, with the brave and independent character likely to inspire a whole new generation of young girls.

The animation film - which hits cinemas in December - follows Princess Moana Waialiki, the single daughter of a chief who hails from a long line of navigators.

Moana must set out on a epic adventure with her demi-god hero Maui (played by Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson), in search of a mythical land which can save her people.

Moana is a huge step forward for Disney, introducing another woman of colour in a titular Disney film. Moana also explores Polynesian culture and mythology.

The role of the princess went to unknown 14-year-old Hawaiian native Auli'i Cravalho, who beat hundreds of other potential actresses after being discovered while singing at a local charity competition.

Moana is the first Polynesian royal in the Disney princess family.

The film is directed by Disney stalwarts Ron Clements and John Musker (The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Hercules, The Princess and the Frog) and will feature music from Hamilton mastermind Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Miranda will also star opposite Emily Blunt in the Mary Poppins sequel scheduled for 2018.

Details about Moana are scarce, but the new trailer gives away a few major hints. First, the princess is seen parting the ocean, indicating she has a special connection to nature.

Demi-god Maui also has special abilities: his magical fish hook enables him to transform into an eagle, battle monsters and pull islands out of the sea.

Moana has a sidekick pig called Pua, which means "flower" in Hawaiian. They both appear unimpressed with Maui's bravado the first time they encounter him.

A 2015 study into Hollywood diversity found only 30 per cent of speaking roles between 2007 and 2014 were female characters, while 73 per cent of characters in 2014's top 100 films were white.

Moana sails into Australian cinemas on Boxing Day.