New Zealand Street Dance: Krump History of New Zealand

The history of Krump in Aotearoa New Zealand reveals a vibrant and evolving community, rooted in self-expression and cultural connection, from its initial introduction in the mid-2000s to its current status as a community-driven art form.

Here is a comprehensive chronological history of participants, winners, "lil homies," "big homies," and Krump families in New Zealand:

Early Stirrings and Foundations (Circa 2004-2010)

Krump began to emerge in New Zealand around the mid-2000s. David LaChapelle's documentary Rize (2005) was a pivotal catalyst, influencing dancers across Aotearoa. Screenings of Rize in New Zealand, including at the Auckland International Film Festival, and the circulation of Krump DVDs, along with early social media platforms, were instrumental in popularizing the dance.

Pioneers and Early Communities:
- Auckland:
  - Aaron Hardy (AE): Introduced Krump to Auckland after returning from the US in early 2005 or late 2004, establishing an early movement known as "haters". This movement reportedly "died off about 2008" but laid crucial groundwork.
  - Kevin Griffiths (AKC): Started krumping in 2005-2006, noting that Aaron Hardy had already been active.
  - Luny (later known as Alien) and his fam: An early krumper/crew from Mangere. Early footage from the kiddLuny YouTube channel (joined June 2006) features "Big luny/alien" and "tiny luny".
  - ICK (Ice Cream Krumpers): An early crew from Rewa areas, some of whom later formed Mighty Praise.
  - OBC (Owned by Christ or Otara Baptist Church): Featured figures like Star Krucial and Shaka Boi Monarch families at the inaugural Krump battle event in Auckland.
  - Black Majik: Israel Adesanya
  - Cody Stipich's listed groups (2004-2006): Included Halo Krew (Venoms), Animal Famz, Greedys (CTs), G.O.D, Random East, KFC, and Rampant.
  - Israel Adesanya (Black Majik/MaJiK/Big Llow): A prominent Krump dancer affiliated with the Broken Naes crew. His crew included King Cookie (Little Magic), Switch (Twin Magic), and Baby Magic. He also contributed to the Rotorua scene. He participated in the "For The Love Battle".
  - Joash Fahitua: Hosted the first-ever Krump competition in New Zealand after learning Krump in Sydney. He achieved numerous victories with his crew.
  - Underground Kings: bringing together dancers from various areas like Mt Roskill, Mangere, Otara, Kelston, and North Shore. Members included Janae (Lady Mav), Alistair (Kid Alien), Kevin (J Emo), Lister (Soulja Mav), Darius (Kid Emo), James (uninducted), Robert (Big Masta), Romain (Big Source/Young Alien), Dylan (Big Groove/123KIT), and Kura. They won the first nationals in 2007.
- Waikato: The Villainz fam practiced "clowning before krump" between 2004 and 2012. Early figures included Big Carnage (Big Rep Jr Carnage), Big Phat (Jr Rep Jr Phat), and BLVD.
- Rotorua:
- Wanganui: Early groups included T Fam and Unknowns.
- Hawkes Bay: Early contributors included Jaesyn Kelly and the "krump steady" movement.
- Bay of Plenty: R.S.E. Krump Crew, Fosta Fams, Kzone, Wonka Fams, Trident Fams, TKC, and MSF were some of the hottest Krump crews in the Bay of Plenty around 2008.
- Wellington: Joseph McClutchie (formerly Omen) found expression and a spiritual connection through Krump, which he saw as similar to Haka. He was inspired to dance by Mike, who introduced Krump to Kawo, and later travelled the world representing Aotearoa.
Events and Battles (2006-2008):
- Krump VS B-Boyz Battle (Manukau City, Oct 2006): Featured on Ukarau Kakepare's (CheekyUkie) YouTube channel.
- Rock The Top 1.0 (2007): Included a Krump category with battles like Chris vs Dan.
- Hope Anniversary (2007) and Wellington Groove (2007) also featured early Krump presence.
- StreetRage2: Featured battles like Lil Hammer versus Boii Omen and showcases from Big Hammer and Jay Mirakle.
- Heart of Krump NZ (2008): Featured battles such as Lil Greedy vs Lil Groove, Clueless vs Young Greedy, JReal vs Shock, Big Teck vs Realboy, Lil Greedy vs.Gruff & Doofy, TECH GREEDY VS SWISS KIDD, VISUAL VS CLASHEZ, and tag team battles like LADY K.O & GIRL GREEDY VS LADY MAV. Also featured NZ VS AUS rounds.
- Cap City Sessions (by 2010): A known gathering point for Krumpers in Wellington, attracting dancers like Big Raw, Omen, and Shock Proof.
- Tommy the Clown's New Zealand Tour: In May 2007, Thomas "Tommy the Clown" Johnson, the creator of "Clowning" (Krump's predecessor), toured Auckland schools and other North Island towns, promoting Krump as a positive outlet against gangs and drugs.
- Decade of Growth: Events, Fams, and Maturation (2011-2019)

This period marked significant expansion and formalisation for New Zealand Krump. Krump Aotearoa, a support network, was established, with its YouTube channel joining in July 2012.

2011:
- Early events like "Troublegrounds" saw dancers such as Asylum and Ricochet.
- NZ Krump Nationals 2011: Featured extensive sessions, capturing events like "West AKC caging" and sessions featuring Big Alien vs Testament.
- Lance Blvd Uerata began krumping in Waikato.
2012 (Rise of Organized Competition):
- Troubled Grounds 2012: Included "Last Man Standing" battles (e.g., Kid West Mayhem vs Blackout aka Twin EXCB, Prince Maestro vs Lil Kisses aka Lowce, Prince Maestro vs Image Taker, Prince Maestro vs Jdashomen Aktive, Jdashomen aka Aktive vs Boi Omen Tha Shadow, Jdashomen aka Aktive vs Blackout aka Twin EXCB), Tag Team battles, and Call Out battles.
- Cap City Prelims: Featured "Lil Homie" (LH) selections and finals (e.g., Young Omen, Jr Mutiny, Young Shadow, J Dot Breakthrough, Jr Breakthrough) and "Big Homie" (BH) battles and finals (e.g., Shadow vs Asylum, Remnant Tha Soulwinna vs Twin O/A aka Detective #12).
- AKC Prelims 2012: Included battles such as Groove vs Masta, Alien aka Emo vs Testament, Masta vs Alien aka Emo, Jr Phat vs Good Omen aka Aktive, Young Trajikk vs Light Saber, Lady Horror vs Young Lowc.
- NZ Krump Nationals 2012: Major event with "Lil Homie" (LH) and "Big Homie" (BH) sections, featuring Good Omen vs Boy Author, Light Saber vs Girl Grove, Lady Horror vs Jr Street Monsta, Jr Crossbearer vs Jr Breakthrough, Groove vs Knuckles, Greedy vs Shadow, Masta vs Remnant, Asylum vs Milz, Alien vs Pacc, Blackhawk vs Twin Omen. Finals included Jr Crossbearer vs Light Saber and Alien vs Milz.
- Swag Fest 2.0: Showcased Krump vs Break battles featuring Kid CT, Prince Maestro, Light Saber, Aktive, and EXCB.
- Ken Vaega (Jr Street Beast/Lightsaber) identified with Krump around this time (age 12). He would later become a World Krump Champion in 2018. He is the founder of Lighthouse Fam and co-founded LH Combine with his wife, Ennoalla Paea-Vaega. He runs the Krump Club of Ōtara. He was mentored by Los Angeles-based Krump legend Baby Tighteyez.
- Ennoalla Paea-Vaega (formerly Ennaolla Paea / Watchmin / Phirus / Girl Street Beast / Watchlight): Introduced to Krump in 2012. Ken Vaega's wife and co-founder of LH Combine. She is the founder of Watchmin World (Watchmin Fam) and leads Lighthouse Famz, advocating for dance as a youth development tool. Her "Female Krump Crew" received the "Grounded - Auckland Team Performance Award" in 2018. She directs "World of Watch:MIN," an all-wāhine (all-female) Krump theatre show.
- EXCBS Krump Fam: Founded by Chris Teava (Boy Ruin/EXCBS), a foundational pillar in the competitive scene. Members included Mrs Example (Nicole Teava), Twin EXCBS (Dans Matters), Twin Example (Nate), Twin Strongside (Vlad/Trip), Jr Strongside (Sean), Former Jr Crossbearer (Jordan/Drill), Former Jr (Montell/Yg Street beast), Former Jr Example (Ken Vaega/Lightsaber).
- 12AF (Baddbeast X/Badass Street Beast/Detective 12): A central figure present in various battles and discussions from this period onwards and founder of 12 Fam. Members include Twin 12 (Matthew Luani), Lil 12 (Onetoto Ikavuka), Lady 12 (Kimi Young), Yg 12, Sista 12 (Sanita Betham), West Dzxn, Baby Girl 12 (Rani Gounder), Free 12 (Joshua Faletutulu), Girl 12 (Miki)
2013 (International Recognition and Local Consolidation):
- Treason 2013: A significant multi-day Krump event in Wellington featuring a "Lock In Session" (e.g., Ruin tha Legion Killa vs Reech, Ruin tha Legion Killa, Young Trajikk, Tiny Khan, Omen, Kid Street Monsta, Boy Trajikk, Milz, Shadow, Khan, Twin Omen, Trajikk, Knucklez, J Mutiny, Young Shadow, Author, Ricochet, J Breakthrough, Reech), and main event battles (e.g., Ruin tha Legion Killa vs Boy Ruin & Twin LK, Lil Homie Battle: J Mutiny vs J Street Monsta vs Light Saber, JAY BREAKTHROUGH vs LT. LIGHT, REMNANT vs TRAJIKK, TWIN OMEN & REECH vs AUTHOR & PACC, BOY TRAJIKK & YOUNG TRAJIKK vs LIL OMEN & TWIN OMEN). International dancer Ruin (Tha Legion Killa) participated.
- For The Love Battle: Held for Christchurch Earthquake relief, featuring Example Krump Fam (Chris Teava aka Boy Ruin) versus Black Majik (Israel Adesanya) & Big Masta.
- Troubled Grounds 2013: Continued to host Tag Team battles (e.g., Boy Evolve/Kid Trajikk vs Lightsaber/Jr CB, Lil Kong/Baby Kong vs Lightsaber/Jr CB vs Jr Omen/Omen, Asylum/Shadow vs Lil Kong/Baby Kong) and Last Man Standing battles.
- KN13 (Krump Nationals 2013): Featured battles including Jr Omen vs Jr Street Monsta, Kid Cross Bearer vs Remnant, Boy Trajikk vs Jr Street Monsta, Montel vs Poura, Judgement vs Alien, Phaze vs Prestige, Fam Clash (AYZ vs Omens), City Clash, and the "Battle of the Champs," culminating in the final battle between Twin Legion Killa/Milz vs Boy Maddknuck/Example.
- WSB Strictly Buck 2013: Featured battles such as Gizmo vs Flyboii, Nephilim vs Antagonize, Shutdown vs Ladyred, Crash vs Twinmurkem, Infant Shutdown vs Jr Maddawg, Lady Shutdown vs Myndset, Trajikk vs Jr Streetkid, Antagonize vs Shutdown, Crash vs Trajikk, Shutdown vs Flyboii, Gurl Murk vs Example. The final battle was Shutdown vs Trajik.
- The Pirates Global: This crew, established in January 2013, regularly hosted sessions and workshops.
2014:
- KN14 (Krump Nationals 2014): Included an AKC Callout with battles like Baby Cross Bearer vs Lil Trajikk, Trajikk vs Eternal, Twelve/Twin Twelve vs City Trouble/Twin City Trouble, EXCB vs Yak, Remnant vs Jr City Trouble, Jr Omen vs Jr Dead End, Jr Aktive vs Jr Ground Bully, Lil Example vs Lil Omen, Lil CT vs Dark Kidd Author, Baby Judgement vs Judgement. The main event featured a Judges Showcase with Bdash aka Twin Everything, BNC heats, Fam Clash Tournament heats and semi-finals, and a 72KO tournament.
- The Pirates Global's 2014 sessions featured Shutdown, Jr Maddawg, Gizmo, YungMaddreech, Nephilim, XShutdown, Infant Shutdown, Blackout, and collaborations with Tight Eyez & LT. Events like "Bring Buck Session" showcased Rachel, Kyd Maddawg, Alphaone, and Konstruct.
2015:
- KNXV (Krump Nationals): Featured "Fam Clash Battles" and "BNC Battles" with crews such as DTS, UK, OA, CBK, Rugged Dynasty, Shepherds, and Palmy. Workshops with Aidan ‘OA’ Karati and Chris ‘EXCB’ Teava were held.
- Cap City Treason 2015: Featured rookie and female sections.
- King of The Pirates 2015: Included battles like Dingo vs Smilekilla, Baby Shutdown vs Tiny Reech, Baby Shutdown vs SmileKilla, Paniq vs Gizmo, with Paniq vs Smilekilla in the finals.
- Hold Your Style 2015: Featured battles such as Tiny Reech vs ???, Nephilim vs Macey, Chris C vs Ilay, Henrika vs ???, Eric vs ??, Jedi vs Eric, Jedi vs ILLay, with Jedi vs Chris C in the finals.
- Clash Nation 2015: Showcased Lady Maddawg vs Lady Red vs Mama K.
- Out of the Box Dance Event: Presented by Tempo Dance Festival, held October 16-18, 2015, in Auckland. It provided an open platform for cross-genre experimentation, moving away from competition confines.
2016:
- EBS 2016 Male Preselection: Featured EXCBS from Aotearoa.
- Cap City Treason 2016: Included exhibitions (Shadow vs Evict, Comeback Kid vs Lil Trajikk, Tiny Scar.Y vs Millz), rookie finals (Tayessa vs Connor), female finals (Girl 100 vs Girl Shepard vs Girl Ayz), and a judges showcase.
- Fix Your Face 2016: Included finals (Ladyshutdown vs Girl Paniq), top 4 battles (Baby Shutdown vs Girl Paniq, Lady Shutdown vs Kid 2Livez), and special showcases (Smilekilla aka Jr Baddbeast, Brocky aka TwinMaddawg, Shutdown aka Baddbeast).
2017 (The Beatdown Era Begins):

BeatDown Feb/Mar 2017: Featured sessions and battles like Kid Drill vs Redhood/Jdash100, Young Aktive vs Young Example, Aktives vs WatchMins, JR Strongside vs 12 a.k.a Baddbeast X, Lightsaber a.k.a Kid StreetBeast vs Boy Omen.
BeatDownSix Nation's 16man KO Tournament: Featured battles including Tiny Yak vs Jr Example, 12 vs Jr Strongside, Lightsabre vs Kid Scar Y, XIII vs EXCB, Remnant vs Aktive, Commanda vs Twin Khan, J Bad Rillah vs Lil Judgement, Brother Strongside vs Potion, J EXAMPLE vs 12, LIGHTSABRE vs XIII, AKTIVE vs TWIN KHAN, 12 vs XIII (Semi-Finals), AKTIVE vs J BAD RILLAH (Semi-Finals), and J BAD RILLAH vs 12 (Finals).
KN17 (Krump Nationals 2017): Included NZ Krump Division (BNC battles), International Division heats and quarter/semi-finals (e.g., Kid Drill vs Eternal, Grimeape vs Big Elkana, Young Murkem vs Redhood, Commander vs Jr Kana, City Trouble vs Twin All Bad, Lady Red vs XIII, Shutdown vs Killa Yak, Milz vs Kool Blue), Fam Clash Semi Finals, BNC Finals (Twin Aktive & Girl Aktive vs Jr Baddrillah & Girl Badrillah), 72KO battles (e.g., 12 vs Mutiny, Aktive vs Jr Street Monsta, Aktive vs 12, Lightsaber vs Mutiny), and an Exhibition Battle (Matters vs Beast).
Watch:MIN crew was established to amplify women in Krump.
The "Beatdown NZ Dance Competitions" YouTube channel joined in March 2017, and "BeatDownSix Nation" in July 2017, marking a new era of event documentation. BeatDownSix Nation was established to help and inspire youth in a positive and safe environment

2018:
- Ken Vaega (Lightsaber) became the first New Zealander to win the Krump World Championships on July 22, 2018, in Dusseldorf, Germany.
- Ennoalla Paea-Vaega (formerly Ennoalla Paea) received the "Grounded - Auckland Team Performance Award" as a choreographer for her Female Krump Crew. She is a co-founder of the Watchmin World fam.
- KN18 (Krump Nationals 2018): Presented BNC Showcases, Fam Clash 3v3 (Hype Rush vs Watchmin in finals), BCT (Battle Compete Tournament) Females (Contenders like Girl Rawplay, Nova, Rowdy Red aka Lady AR; Top 8, Semis, Finals), BCT Males (Contenders like Blitz The Smash Boi, Pax, Jr Hood, YNBBG X, Madd Blue, Masta, Elkana, Shinobi, 12AF, Jr Kana, Bulldawg, Aktive, Goofee, Cube X, Boy Omen, Twin Blvd, Ill Twist, Monsta Blvd, Kid Badrulez, Light Saber; Top 8, Top 16, Semis, Finals). Also featured a 7.2.Kill Off Division and 8Bucks Division.
- Big Yak: A pioneer of the Christchurch Krump movement, known for his original style and dominant bravado, who has been battling, teaching, and working locally, nationally, and internationally for 14 years.
2019:
- NZ All Styles Championship 2019 (Hamilton, March 8-9): Included Female 72KO and Solo Battles/call outs on Friday, and Breaking and All Styles battles on Saturday. Judges included international judge Ian de Mello (Hood aka iLLStryker), Rush, and Happy Feet (John Vaifale). The winner of the Female 72KO, Breaking, and All Styles battles qualified for Destructive Steps World Finals in Sydney. Happy Feet had previously won the Krump title at Australia's World Supremacy Battlegrounds.
- KN19 (Krump Nationals 2019): Included Fam Clash Finals (Hype Rush Empire vs Saber Fam), BNC Division preselections and finals, 1v1 Female Tournament (Finals: Watchlight vs Girl Matters), 1v1 Male Tournament (Finals: 12AF vs EXCBS). Also featured 7.2.Kill Off and 8Bucks Krumpire Qualifiers.
- Treason 2019: Lightsaber aka Jr Street Beast was featured.
- Auckland Krump Prelims for "Land of the Kings": Lady Hora was highlighted.
- Krump Club of Ōtara: Established as part of the Lighthouse fam, providing a safe space for kids to learn Krump.
- Byrin Mita (XIII / former Jr Mutiny): Founded XIII WRLD, a dance programme fostering young talent in Krump, hip-hop, popping, locking, and more. He notes strong similarities between Krump and Haka and strives for Māori representation in street dance. He is the project owner for the "CNTRL-VS" Open Style Dance Event, which exceeded its funding goal on Boosted, with Boosted X Moana matching donations.
- Alexander Teraitua (Aktive / AK75 / Boy Fleshkilla / JR Omen): Leader of the Hyperush Empire Krump fam. He holds the most titles across multiple years of Krump Nationals.

The Modern Era: Online Adaptations and Diverse Showcases (2020-2024)

The early 2020s saw adaptations to online formats and continued diversification of street dance events. The LH Combine, a collective founded by Ken Vaega and Ennoalla Paea-Vaega (merging their Lighthouse and Watchmin World fams), emerged to provide opportunities for creatives.

2020:
- KN20 (Krump Nationals 2020): Featured exhibition battles (Aktive vs Monsta Tresspass, YG Example vs Boy Omen, Lil Lightsaber vs Lil Omen, Endshot vs Boy Lightsaber, Twin $’ab vs Commanda), a guest showcase by Krump Club, and a Tag Team Battle (Freshmans vs IDCO).
- The BEATDOWN 2020 Kidz Edition: Hosted Krump Prelims (Bella, Brooklyn, Emily, Lauvi, Leniza, London, Natalie, Peyton, Reiley, Ruby, Samantha) and Open Style Prelims.
- BLVD fam roster: JR Blvd (Grey), Lil Blvd (Kelvin), Yg Blvd (Rain), Kidd Blvd (Pita)
- EXCBS fam had a new generation of members: Founded by Chris Teava (EXCBS), and Mrs Example (Nicole Teava), Twin EXCBS (Dans Matters), Twin Example (Nate), Twin Strongside (Vlad/Trip), Jr Strongside (Sean), Former J-dash Strongside (William Rakena/ now Don Bvck), Former L-dash Strongside (now Endshot), Yg Strongside (Ed), Boy Strongside (Moses Martinez), Former Kid Strongside (Mita), Former Ghost Strongside (John Bernardo/JB/ now Prevail), and Former Strongside X (Zhan Teiho/ now Twin Don Bvck/Taiqion), Former Example X (now Queen Endshot).
2021:
- KN21 ONLINE: Adapting to new formats, this event included KY (Kids/Youngins) Division Prelims and battles (e.g., Baby Watch:Min vs Explosion vs Badd Blvd, Rain vs Kid Blvd vs Rian), XP (Experienced) Preselections and battles (e.g., Girl XIII vs 1:AM, Jdot Example vs Edward), and Hitterz Division battles (e.g., Fly vs Killa Bodybag, Aktive vs J Hood, Milz vs Blvd, Antagonize vs Boy Omen, XIII vs Jr Trip, Savage Street Beast vs Boy Antagonize, 12AF vs Illkid X, Soul vs Nix). It concluded with Top 8, Semi-finals, and Finals for all divisions.
- Projekt Feel Good: Annual Hip Hop and Street Dance Experience, held in South Auckland.
2022:
- THE BEATDOWN May 2022: Featured finals for Adults (S.H.N.B.K vs Lil 12), Kidz (Baby XIII vs YG XIII), and Younginz (Raul vs Kidd Blvd).
- BEATDOWN August 27th 2022: Included Rookies, Kidz, and Heavy Hitters preselections, as well as "7 to Smoke" battles. Endshot won Rookies, and Omen won Heavy Hitters.
- Labyrinth NZ 2022: Hosted an opening session, a guest showcase by Baby Watch:Min & Queen Trespass, prelim rounds, and top 8/top 4 battles (e.g., Hatesa vs Ashley, IndiHaze vs Caitlyn).
- BEATDOWN END OF YEAR 2022: Featured Kids, Younginz, Rookies, and Heavy Hitters tournaments, including semi-finals and finals (e.g., Rian vs Kidd XIII in Kids Finals, Wolf vs Monsta Strongside in Rookies Finals, Strongside vs Omen in Heavy Hitters Finals).
- KN22 (Krump Nationals 2022): Featured Samuel Han (Kid XIII) as KY Division Champion, Hatesa
- as XP Division Champion, and XIII as Hitterz Champion. Judges included Lightsaber(Ken Vaega), Mosiana Webster (Nyxx, Deuce Red, Deuce Adrenaline Rush) and Alexander Teraitua (Aktive, Boy Fleshkilla, Jr Omen).
2023:
- BEATDOWN Heavy Hitters 2023: Featured after sessions (e.g., Omen vs Erupt), top 16 battles (e.g., Savyb vs Pablo), preselections, top 8, semi-finals, and finals (AK75 vs Savyb).
- BD Youth 2023: Included Younginz and Kidz divisions with finals and a judges showcase (Aktive aka Fleshkilla X, YG Saber & Prince Saber). Kidz winners included King Joshy and Hao Zhen.
- Labyrinth NZ 2023 Session Night: Included an opening session, battles like Lil Matterz vs Girl XIII, Lysharn vs Mia, Leniza vs Iso, Lauvi vs Andrea, West Dxzn vs Wing Watch:min, Watch:min/Phirus aka Girl StreetBeast vs Ember aka Killa Encore, Nyxx vs Girl Endshot, Lady Aktive vs Lady K.O, Killa Encore vs Lil Antagonize, Girl Phirus vs Girl XIII. A tournament also took place with preselections, top 8, top 4 (Iso vs YG Watch:min, Girl Phirus vs Mosta Endshot, Girl Endshot vs YG Watch:min).
- BEATDOWN CHAMPIONSHIP 2023: A grand event featuring Heavy Hitters finals (XIII vs Aktive), Younginz finals (Kidd XIII vs Prince Saber), Kidz finals (Mosta XIII vs King Joshy), NZ OS finals (XIII vs ASAB), and Rookiez finals (Lil XIII vs Keiran).
- BD Rookies 2023: Showcased battles like Endshot vs Enigma, Endshot X vs Rian, Kieran vs Baby XIII, Liam vs Boi XIII, Micro XIII vs Monsta XIII, Miss Endshot vs Air, Raul vs Tiny Endshot, YG XIII vs Lady KO.
- KOB NZ Qualifier 2023 (King of Buck): Showcased Mens Finals (YG TRIP vs 12AF), Kids Finals (Kidd XIII vs Baby XIII), Womens Finals (Iso vs Tvff aka P Bruiser), and Teams Finals (Hyperush Empire vs Gfam).
- Stacy Meng (Baby XIII) won the Youth Division - All Styles at Step Ya Game Up 2023 in New York City. She demonstrated versatility in Popping, Locking, Waacking, and Krumping, as a member of XIII WRLD.
- Trenton Omeri (12AF) participated in NZ Krump Panel Discussions. He battled Ruccboi.
- Joseph McClutchie (formerly Omen), Experienced a significant hip injury from a drift triking accident, leading to 2.5-3 years of chronic hip pain and multiple surgeries. This challenging period redirected his focus towards emotional intelligence and self-awareness
- Caitlyn Dulcie (Jr Phirus), Miss Earth New Zealand 2023, performed lyrical Krump and won Gold in Best Talent at Miss Earth 2023.
2024:

BEATDOWN Rookies Qualifier 2024: Featured Top 18 battles (e.g., Alph vs YG Endshot vs Magento), a Judges Showcase, Top 6, and Finals (MaddMaxx vs JR EndShot vs Prince Saber).
Beatdown Youth Qualifiers 2024: Included Kidz division (Baby Girl 12 vs Bella, Baby Girl 12 vs Zeke) and Younginz division (Baby Watchmin vs Hao Zhen vs Joshy, Baby Watchmin vs Kidd XIII, Baby Watchmin vs Micro XIII vs Prince Syte), with finals and a judges showcase.
LABYRINTH Ladies Krump Event | Krumpfest 2024: Amplifying women in Krump, showcasing sessions (e.g., Ember aka Killa Encore vs Essence aka Twin Red), tournament battles (e.g., Girl Phirus vs Monsta Endshot), and exhibitions (Miki vs Nyxx, Girl Phirus vs Essence). The finals saw Girl Phirus vs Baby Girl 12.
BEATDOWN HH & NZ OS Qualifier | Krumpfest 2024: Featured Heavy Hitters (HH) and NZ Open Styles (NZ OS) divisions with preselections, judges showcases, and numerous battles including $evere vs Ak75, Achilles vs Flow, Aktive vs Matter$, Ak75 vs Blitz, Nyxx vs Blitz, Nyxx vs YG $A'BER, Prince $A'BER vs Kidd XIII, Savy.B vs Matter$, Savy.B vs Kidd XIII, Savy B vs Essence, Savy B vs Masta.
Rhythm & Buck | Krumpfest 2024: Featured battles like Process vs Peyton, Process vs Reset, Process vs Savy B (Finals), Process vs XIII, Tana vs Lil $A'BER, Ak75 vs Savy B, Iso vs Kidd XIII, Lady KO vs Kidd XIII, Lady KO vs Prince $A'BER, Lil $A'BER vs Savy B, Miki vs Essence, Peyton vs Essence, Trav vs Peyton, YG $A'BER vs XIII, and Savy B vs Kidd XIII.
KOB NZ Qualifier 2024 (King of Buck): Showcased Mens Finals (YG TRIP vs 12AF), Kids Finals (Kidd XIII vs Baby XIII), Womens Finals (Iso vs Tvff aka P Bruiser), and Teams Finals (Hyperush Empire vs Gfam).
BEATDOWN CHAMPIONSHIPS 2024: Major championship event with judges showcases and ANZAC CUP street battles (e.g., 12AF vs Street, A$A'B vs Red, Omen vs Reset), Rhythm N Buck finals (Vision vs 12AF), and division battles across NZ Open Styles (NZ OS), Rookiez, Younginz, Kidz, and Heavy Hitterz.
"World of Watch:MIN": A theatre show held in January 2024 at Māngere Arts Centre, featuring an all-wāhine (female) cast telling authentic stories through Krump, emphasising mana wahine (spirit of women). Directed and choreographed by Ennaolla Paea-Vaega.
Raul Gounder (Yg Lightsaber) & Rian Gounder (Prince Lightsaber): Hip Hop duo from Pakuranga College. They achieved third place in the Junior Duo category at the Hip Hop Unite World Championships in Portugal in 2024. Rian Gounder secured the gold medal in the 2024 Youth Battle World Championship and a silver medal in the under-15 category at the K.O.B. (King of Buck) dance competition in Japan, the first time a NZ competitor placed in this category. Their father coaches them.
Trenton Omeri (12AF) battled Brui5er on a Thursday, appreciating the exchange of good energy and vibes in the battle. He watched his own rounds to work on his Krump style and presentation. He learned to "be human mid round" from 1K. He observed Brui5er's insane continuous movement and complex combos. His second round had a quicker intro and higher intensity than his first, following his philosophy for multi-round battles. He felt good about his performance and learned a lot from the battle, which fueled him for the year. He
also recalled battling legends like Riot, J bad news, Rock boy, and Shutdown in previous years, mostly within the community. He traveled to Desert Storm 5 in Phoenix, Arizona, to battle Bwylder, an event he considers one of his top three to five events globally. He prepped extensively for this battle, viewing it as an opportunity to earn his stripes and make a statement. His first round had a Tommy the Clown intro and a Conor McGregor influence. He landed risky "killers" (complex moves) he had practiced, including hat tricks and shoe-based moves. He also participated in a KCs tournament and had exhibition battles in Japan and South Korea around this time.
Rian Gounder (Prince Lightsaber), Raul Gounder (Yg Lightsaber): Brothers who form a successful Hip Hop duo. They are part of the Prototype crew.
Samuel Han (Kid XIII): A core member of XIII WRLD.
AŌTA_REESO (Slayz): An active Krumper documenting "Krump Dancing and Jams in New Zealand" via TikTok.
Silo Sessions: Created by Pax (Darren Reyes/Jr Lightsaber) and Flyhigh (Kriesler Cullen/Twin Lightsaber) as a new Auckland Krump session spot, ongoing into 2025. Yrjo Galvez (Severe / Rough Biggie / Boy Omen) is a co-organiser

2025 (ongoing):

Silo sessions ongoing
Byrin Mita: Founder of XIII WRLD, a dance programme fostering young talent in Krump, hip-hop, popping, locking, and more. He notes similarities between Krump and Haka, such as stomping and powerful movement. He strives for Māori representation in street dance, especially after realizing people overseas didn't know who Māori were. He is project owner for the "CNTRL-VS" Open Style Dance Event, which aims to give control back to dancers. This event exceeded its funding goal on Boosted, with Boosted X Moana matching donations.

Key Figures and Fams (Overall Impact)

The New Zealand Krump scene is sustained by a dedicated network of individuals and "fams," emphasizing mentorship and community. The consistent focus on "Kidz," "Rookiez," and "Younginz" divisions ensures knowledge transfer and sustained growth across generations.

Prominent Individuals:
- Ken Vaega (Lightsaber/Jr Street Beast/formerly Jr Example): World Krump Champion (2018), founder of Lighthouse fam, co-founder of LH Combine, runs Krump Club of Ōtara. Mentored by Baby Tighteyez.
- Ennoalla Paea-Vaega (formerly Ennaolla Paea/Watchmin/Phirus/Girl Street Beast/Watchlight): Ken Vaega's wife, co-founder of LH Combine, founder of Watchmin World (Watchmin Fam). Leads Lighthouse Famz and directs "World of Watch:MIN" to empower women in Krump.
- Trenton Omeri (12AF/Baddbeast X/Lil 12/Young 12/Rugged 12/Jdot 12): Expressive street artist, educator, advocate for mental well-being, interviewee for "Beauty in the Ugly" thesis, creator behind "Why We Move." A central figure in battles and discussions across eras.
- Chris Teava (EXCBS): Founder of the EXCBS Krump fam and Krump Aotearoa, a significant competitor and organizer of major Krump events in NZ.
- Byrin Mita (XIII/former Jr Mutiny): Founder of XIII WRLD collective and XIII Fam, which nurtures young talent in various street dance styles.
- Omen (Twin Legion Killa): Consistent leader from Cap City, Wellington, in Krump battles and sessions.
- Darren Reyes (Pax/Jr Lightsaber): Founder and organiser of Silo sessions in Auckland
- Kriesler Cullen (Flyhigh/Twin Lightsaber): Co-founder of Silo sessions in Auckland
- Yrjo Galvez (Severe/Rough Biggie/Boy Omen): Co-organiser of Silo sessions in Auckland
- Stacy Meng (Baby XIII/8face): Versatile young prodigy in Popping, Locking, Waacking, and Krumping, member of XIII WRLD, winner of Youth Division - All Styles at Step Ya Game Up 2023.
- Samuel Han (Kid XIII): Promising young talent and core member of XIII WRLD.
- Raul Gounder (Yg Lightsaber) and Rian Gounder (Prince Lightsaber): Internationally acclaimed Hip Hop duo, affiliated with Projekt Team and Prototype crew. Rian is a Youth Battle World Champion and K.O.B. silver medalist.
- William Rakena (Don Bvck): Credits Krump with helping him overcome troubled youth.
- Israel Adesanya (Black Majik): Known for MMA, but also a prominent early NZ Krump dancer.
- John Vaifale (Happy Feet): One of NZ's leading freestyle hip-hop dancers, holds various titles, including a Krump Dance Championship at Australia's World Supremacy Battlegrounds. Member of Projekt Team, Hyperush Empire, and HLGNZ.
- Big Yak: Pioneer of the Christchurch Krump movement, known for original style and dominant bravado, has been battling, teaching, and working locally, nationally, and internationally for 14 years.
- Lance Ureta (Blvd): A leader and Krump dancer in Waikato, known for using Krump as a release and expression.
- AŌTA_REESO (Slayz): Documents Krump dancing and jams in NZ via TikTok.
Key Fams and Collectives:
- EXCBS Krump Fam: Founded by Chris Teava, a foundational pillar in the competitive scene.
- Lighthouse Fam (later LH Combine): Established by Ken Vaega, merged with Watchmin World to form LH Combine. Responsible for the Krump Club of Ōtara, supporting youth development and connecting NZ dancers globally. Members of Lighthouse fam include Twin Lightsaber (Kriesler Cullen/Flyhigh), JR Lightsaber (Darren Reyes/Pax/former Kid Drill), Queen Lightsaber, Boy Lightsaber (Zepheniah Setu), Girl Lightsaber, YG Lightsaber (Raul Gounder), Prince Lightsaber (Rian Gounder), Prince Syte (Brooklyn), Girl Syte, Ip Saber (Lewis Talo), Ill Saber (William Boquiron) and Nela Tuihaangana
- Watchmin World (Watchmin Fam): Founded by Ennoalla Paea-Vaega, focuses on empowering women in Krump. Members include Twin Watchmin (Seidah Tuioai), Gully Watchmin (Shanice Talo), JR Phirus (Caitlyn Dulcie/Miss Earth New Zealand 2023), Baby Watchmin (Talyna Tuihaangana), Watchmin Wing (Kat Walker/Katto Lock), Kid Watchmin (Cassidy Makiha Kang), Yg Watchmin
- XIII Fam / XIII WRLD collective: A high-performance street dance team and developmental program founded by Byrin Mita, nurturing young talent. Includes hierarchy of members such as JR XIII (Clear), Lil XIII (Rain), YG XIII , Boy XIII (Joe Taylor), Girl XIII (Peyton), Kid XIII (Samuel Han), Child XIII (Matthew), Monsta XIII (Arthur Meng/Explosion), Baby XIII (Stacey Meng/8face).
- Hyperush Empire: A prominent Krump fam led by Alexander "Aktive" Teratuia.
- Krump Aotearoa: Central support network for the New Zealand Krump community, organizing significant events.

Krump History of New Zealand

Early Stirrings and Foundations (Circa 2004-2010)

The Modern Era: Online Adaptations and Diverse Showcases (2020-2024)

Key Figures and Fams (Overall Impact)

Street Candee & Candee Collective: Femme powerhouse crew in Commercial and Street Dance in New Zealand