The Art of Waacking in Aotearoa: A Journey of Expression, Community, and Global Recognition

I. Introduction to Waacking

Waacking, a dynamic and expressive street dance, emerged from the vibrant LGBTQIA+ club scene of 1970s Los Angeles during the disco era. This unique dance style is primarily characterized by its fluid, rotational arm movements, striking poses, and a profound emphasis on individual expressiveness, typically performed to the pulsating rhythms of 1970s disco and 1980s post-disco music.¹

The very genesis of Waacking is rooted in a powerful act of linguistic and cultural reclamation. Initially, the dance was termed "punking," a derogatory label for gay men prevalent at the time.¹ However, the community bravely reappropriated this term, transforming it into an empowering verb that signified strength and defiance. As the dance gained wider appeal, the name evolved to "Waackin'" and subsequently "Waacking," a deliberate shift to disassociate from negative connotations and describe the distinctive "whack" movement of arms.² This transformation of a pejorative into a symbol of pride demonstrates how marginalized communities strategically utilize artistic expression not merely for entertainment, but as a potent tool for social and personal redefinition. This inherent political and social dimension has been foundational to the dance since its inception, underscoring its role as a vehicle for empowerment.³

Waacking's aesthetic draws from a rich tapestry of influences, reflecting its adaptive and interpretive nature. Dancers found inspiration in the glamour and drama of classic Hollywood film actresses such as Lauren Bacall, Marlene Dietrich, and Bette Davis, as well as the sharp, quick movements seen in 1970s martial arts films.¹ These diverse inspirations manifested not only through the intricate movements and poses but also permeated aspects like dress styles and facial expressions, creating a distinct visual language.¹ This fusion of high art and street culture, incorporating elements from jazz and gymnastics, highlights a core aesthetic principle of Waacking: its ability to absorb and reinterpret disparate forms into a cohesive, expressive whole.¹

The global popularization of Waacking owes much to pioneering figures who brought it from underground clubs to broader audiences. Tyrone "The Bone" Proctor, an original Soul Train dancer and a member of The Outrageous Waacking Dancers, was instrumental in its early spread.² Jeffrey Daniel is widely credited with adding the "g" to "Waackin'" and famously performing the style on the American music-dance television program

Soul Train.¹ The dance largely remained an underground phenomenon until its exposure on

Soul Train ¹, which catalyzed the formation of groups like The Outrageous Waacking Dancers.² This illustrates how mainstream media platforms, even in their nascent forms, can serve as crucial conduits for elevating niche, culturally significant art forms from insular scenes to a wider global consciousness, accelerating their dissemination and evolution. Despite this broader exposure, the core values of individuality, self-expression, and storytelling inherent in Waacking have largely been preserved.³ The style experienced a significant resurgence in the early 2000s, largely due to the efforts of figures like Brian "Footwork" Green, who formalized its teaching, and other elders who generously shared their invaluable knowledge, leading to its widespread global practice.³

II. History of Waacking in New Zealand: Origins and Evolution

The history of Waacking in New Zealand is a relatively recent narrative, differing from some other street dance forms whose origins might be tied to earlier, more singular events. Its emergence in Aotearoa is not attributed to a single moment but rather a gradual introduction and organic growth, primarily driven by dedicated individuals who encountered the style overseas and subsequently brought their knowledge and passion back to cultivate a local scene. These pioneers, through their international training and local initiatives, have been instrumental in transplanting the global Waacking culture into New Zealand, fostering its growth, and ensuring its authenticity within the unique cultural landscape of Aotearoa.

A pivotal figure in establishing and leading the Waacking community in New Zealand is Jaydess Nand. Her journey involved extensive training in Australia, Los Angeles, and New York City, where she had the invaluable opportunity to study with legendary mentors, including the esteemed OG and Waacking Father Tyrone 'The Bone' Proctor, and Princess Lockeroo.³ This direct lineage to the dance's origins provided her with a deep foundational understanding and authentic connection to the style. Upon her return to New Zealand, Jaydess quickly became recognized as the nation's foremost expert in Waacking, earning both national and international acclaim for her profound knowledge and extensive experience.³ She is widely credited with actively managing and nurturing the New Zealand Waacking community and holds a significant role as a co-leader of The Jaackers, an international Waacking crew with a presence in both New Zealand and Australia. Jaydess's influence extends to her pioneering efforts in founding and directing major dance battle events in New Zealand, notably 'Waack It Out,' which holds the distinction of being the first street dance battle competition in NZ to feature a formalized Waacking competition, and 'Whats Yo Style.' Her international impact is further demonstrated by her co-founding of 'Waack Is Baack,' one of New York City's largest Waacking events. Beyond these organizational contributions, Jaydess has also creatively innovated within the style, developing "Desi Waack," a unique fusion that incorporates elements of her Indian heritage and Bollywood music into Waacking.

Another key figure whose contributions have profoundly shaped the New Zealand Waacking scene is Rina Chae. After extensive training and performing with international artists, including pop icon Beyoncé, in Los Angeles, Rina returned to New Zealand in 2014.¹⁰ Observing a perceived "lacking" in the local dance scene, she felt a strong imperative to contribute and elevate the standard. Since her return, Rina Chae has assumed a significant leadership role as the Mother of Imperial House of Waacking (New Zealand chapter), which is part of a global collective dedicated to spreading the style and its message worldwide.¹⁰ Her active involvement extends to serving as the Dance Liaison for Red Bull 'Dance Your Style' 2023, where she taught Waacking, demonstrating her commitment to showcasing the style on prominent platforms.¹⁰ Rina and her husband are deeply connected to the dance community, actively participating in street dance battles and hosting jams and events.¹⁰ Her work, particularly through En Beat Dance Academy, which she co-directs, is focused on creating structured pathways and opportunities for younger dancers across various street styles, including Waacking.¹⁰ She is also the founder of Street Candee, a prominent commercial/hip-hop studio.¹⁰

The journeys of Jaydess Nand and Rina Chae exemplify a phenomenon often observed in cultural arts: the "returnee effect." Both individuals gained extensive international training and experience in major dance hubs before choosing to return to their home country. Jaydess, with her direct connection to Waacking's originators, and Rina, with her high-profile commercial dance background, brought back a wealth of authentic knowledge and professional standards. Their decision to return, driven by a desire to "fill what was lacking" in the local scene, highlights a proactive, community-building ethos. This indicates that the initial establishment and subsequent growth of Waacking in New Zealand was not merely an organic local evolution but a deliberate "transplantation" of an authentic global culture. This ensures the foundational integrity of the dance is maintained while simultaneously adapting to the local context, fostering a scene that is both globally connected and locally relevant. Their commitment to nurturing the art form from the ground up has been crucial.

Furthermore, the actions of these pioneers underscore the interconnectedness of global and local dance scenes and a strategic approach to institutionalization. Jaydess's co-founding of 'Waack Is Baack' in New York City while simultaneously leading the New Zealand community demonstrates a continuous feedback loop and mutual influence between the nascent New Zealand scene and its established global counterparts.³ Similarly, Rina's role as Mother of the New Zealand chapter of the global Imperial House of Waacking ¹⁰ reinforces this global network. This constant connection to global pioneers and events helps maintain the authenticity and evolution of Waacking in New Zealand, preventing it from becoming a diluted or isolated interpretation of the style. The rapid establishment of formal structures, such as dedicated battle series like 'Waack It Out' and 'Whats Yo Style,' and structured academies like En Beat Dance Academy with its comprehensive class offerings ¹², moves beyond informal jams to create sustainable pathways for training, competition, and community building. This strategic institutionalization has significantly accelerated the dance's growth and its integration into the broader New Zealand dance landscape.

III. Current Waacking Leaders, Dancers, and Practitioners

The New Zealand Waacking scene today is a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem, supported by a dedicated community of influential leaders, active dancers, and impactful crews and companies. This section will elaborate on the key figures and organizations that are shaping the present and future of Waacking in Aotearoa.

A. Key Leaders and Influencers

The strength of the New Zealand Waacking community lies in its diverse and dedicated individual contributors, many of whom wear multiple hats as performers, choreographers, and educators.

Jaydess Nand continues to be a central and foundational figure in the New Zealand Waacking community. She actively runs the local Waacking scene, co-leads the international crew The Jaackers, and remains the driving force behind pioneering Waacking battle events such as 'Waack It Out' and 'Whats Yo Style' [user provided text]. Her innovative creation, "Desi Waack," which fuses her Indian heritage and Bollywood music with Waacking, exemplifies a unique cultural contribution to the style, showcasing its adaptability and potential for personal expression.

Rina Chae plays a significant leadership role as the Mother of Imperial House of Waacking (New Zealand chapter), a global collective dedicated to spreading the style worldwide.¹⁰ Her commitment extends to organizing events and nurturing emerging talent within the Waacking community. As co-director of En Beat Dance Academy and founder of Street Candee, she has established crucial educational and commercial platforms for dancers.¹⁰ Her role as Dance Liaison for Red Bull 'Dance Your Style' 2023 further solidifies her influence, bridging the Waacking community with prominent mainstream street dance events.¹⁰

Hayley Walters-Tekahika is a highly active participant in the Waacking community, serving as the booking agent for The Jaackers NZ and a performer in the theatrical production "Club Waack".¹⁵ She is also the creative director of Prowl Productions, a company she founded in 2022 with the explicit aim of creating dedicated spaces for femme and street dance styles. Her work with Prowl Productions is notable for its focus on highlighting queer, people of color (POC), and ally creatives, using dance as a medium for powerful storytelling.¹⁵

Andrew Cornish, as co-director of "Club Waack," shares leadership in theatrical productions that feature Waacking, contributing to the narrative of queer struggle and community building through the art form.¹⁵

Setu Mosegi, based in Christchurch, represents the geographical spread of Waacking beyond Auckland. While specific details about his individual Waacking events or workshops were not extensively detailed in the available information, his presence indicates the localized development and growing reach of the style across New Zealand.¹⁶

Angelika Zueva, an original member of the Street Candee Dance Company, possesses a substantial background in commercial dance in New Zealand, having trained extensively under Rina Chae.¹⁹ Her performance credits include major events such as Coca Cola Christmas in the Park and New Zealand's premier cabaret show, Encore.¹⁹ Her involvement in the K-Pop scene, including K-Pop Showdown and choreographic submissions for K-Pop artists, showcases her versatile skill set and ability to navigate various dance genres.¹⁹ After pursuing dance opportunities in the United States, her return to New Zealand signifies continued engagement with the local dance scene, even as she focuses on recovery and future endeavors.¹⁹

Sarah Reece is recognized as a talented dance assistant and choreographer, having collaborated closely with Rina Chae on projects such as the K-Pop Academy show.²¹ She instructs Heels choreography at En Beat Dance Academy.²² While direct instruction in Waacking is not explicitly stated in the provided information, her close professional relationship with a key Waacking figure like Rina Chae and her role within En Beat Dance Academy strongly suggest potential involvement or influence within the Waacking sphere. Her background also includes extensive professional work in dance and aerial arts.²³

Heidi Chen is a versatile creative with a foundational background in Ballet and Chinese dance, who developed a strong passion for street dance, including Vogue and Hip Hop.²⁴ She has performed with Street Candee Dance Company ²⁶ and served as an assistant choreographer for prominent K-Pop bands.²⁴ Her ability to master diverse styles and work actively across New Zealand, China, and Australia highlights her extensive skill set.²⁴ Although specific instruction in Waacking is not detailed, her versatile street dance background, her role as a "Vogue extraordinaire" at Red Bull Dance Your Style ¹¹, and her association with En Beat Dance Academy where she teaches choreography ²⁷ strongly imply her engagement with Waacking.

Peggy Yao is a dancer specializing in Vogue Femme, Vogue Old Way, and Waacking, actively contributing to the vibrant battle scene in New Zealand.¹¹ Her participation in competitions, including Red Bull Dance Your Style, is noted for the personality and passion she brings to her performances.¹¹

Earl De Castro is a notable figure in the New Zealand dance scene, recognized for his significant contributions to both Waacking and Voguing.¹¹ His acclaimed work "Liberate-He," presented at the Tempo Dance Festival, was described as a "thrust of waacking and voguing, tight jeans and high heels, all pitch perfect," emphasizing the theatrical and expressive nature of his artistic output.²⁹ He was also a competitor in Red Bull Dance Your Style.¹¹

David Fung is a skilled dance artist and choreographer who has collaborated with Rina Chae as a talented dance assistant and choreographed for various commercial dance projects.²¹ He teaches commercial choreography at En Beat Dance Academy.¹³ His prominent role within this renowned academy and his close ties to a key Waacking leader like Rina Chae indicate his engagement with a wide spectrum of street dance styles, including Waacking.

Renee "Naynay" Sharp and Penelope Penny Shand are both recognized as active Waacking practitioners. They are associated with Projekt Team, an initiative dedicated to creating positive and safe spaces for expression through street dance, highlighting their commitment to community-focused dance initiatives.³¹

Lara Chuo (Noir from Avant House of Dawn) is a Waacking practitioner deeply embedded in the New Zealand dance landscape. She is a part of Prowl Productions, an entertainment company celebrated for producing street dance theatre.³¹ Furthermore, she is known by her house name, Noir, from the Avant House of Dawn, a prominent ballroom house in Aotearoa committed to queer artistry and self-expression.³⁵ Her involvement underscores the strong and vital connection between Waacking and the burgeoning ballroom scene in New Zealand.³³

The collective profile of these individuals reveals a significant characteristic of the New Zealand dance scene: the prevalence of the "multi-hyphenate" dancer. Many key figures, such as Angelika Zueva, Sarah Reece, Heidi Chen, and David Fung, are not confined to a single dance style. They exhibit versatility across commercial dance, K-Pop, Hip Hop, and various forms of choreography.¹⁰ This broad skill set and diverse engagement allow them to influence and integrate Waacking across various dance contexts, from foundational street dance to commercial choreography and K-Pop. In a relatively smaller dance industry like New Zealand's, individuals often need to be versatile to sustain their careers and contribute broadly, fostering a rich cross-pollination of styles and a more holistic development of dancers. This versatility strengthens the overall street dance ecosystem in NZ, ensuring that Waacking is not siloed but rather thrives within an interconnected network of styles and performance opportunities.

Moreover, the contributions of individuals like Earl De Castro and Lara Chuo highlight Waacking's role as a powerful platform for queer and intersectional identity. Earl De Castro's work "Liberate-He" explicitly fuses Waacking and Voguing with themes of queer expression.²⁹ Lara Chuo's identity within the Avant House of Dawn and her work with Prowl Productions directly links Waacking to the ballroom scene and queer artistry in Aotearoa.³¹ This demonstrates that Waacking in New Zealand is not merely a dance form but a profound vehicle for identity, particularly for LGBTQIA+ and People of Color (POC) communities. It serves as a vital space for self-expression, community building, and storytelling, echoing its historical roots in the US and adapting them to the unique Aotearoa context, including elements of Indigenous theatre-making.

Table 1: Key Waacking Leaders and Influencers in New Zealand

Name	Primary Affiliation(s)	Key Waacking Contribution(s)	Noteworthy Detail
Jaydess Nand	The Jaackers NZ	Running NZ Waacking community, co-leading The Jaackers, founding 'Waack It Out' & 'Whats Yo Style', co-founding 'Waack Is Baack' (NYC), creating "Desi Waack."	Recognized as NZ's Waacking expert; trained with OG Tyrone 'The Bone' Proctor & Princess Lockeroo.
Rina Chae	Imperial House of Waacking NZ, En Beat Dance Academy, Street Candee	Mother of IHOW_NZ, co-director of En Beat, founder of Street Candee, Dance Liaison for Red Bull 'Dance Your Style' 2023, fostering young talent.	Returned from LA (trained with Beyoncé) to address "lacking" in NZ dance scene.
Hayley Walters-Tekahika	The Jaackers NZ, Prowl Productions	Booking agent for The Jaackers, performer in "Club Waack," Creative Director of Prowl Productions.	Founded Prowl Productions to create spaces for femme and street dance styles.
Andrew Cornish	Prowl Productions	Co-director of "Club Waack."	Leadership role in theatrical productions featuring Waacking.
Setu Mosegi	N/A	Contributing to Waacking landscape in Christchurch.	Indicates geographical spread of Waacking beyond Auckland.
Angelika Zueva	Street Candee Dance Company	Original member of Street Candee, extensive training with Rina Chae, K-Pop scene involvement.	Returned to NZ after pursuing dance opportunities in the U.S.
Sarah Reece	En Beat Dance Academy	Dance assistant & choreographer for Rina Chae (K-Pop Academy), teaches Heels choreography at En Beat.	Close collaborator with Rina Chae, suggesting influence in Waacking sphere.
Heidi Chen	Street Candee Dance Company, En Beat Dance Academy	Performed with Street Candee, assistant choreographer for K-Pop bands, "Vogue extraordinaire" at Red Bull Dance Your Style.	Versatile background in Ballet, Chinese dance, and various street styles.
Peggy Yao	N/A	Specializes in Vogue Femme, Vogue Old Way, and Waacking; active in battle scene.	Brings personality and passion to competitions.
Earl De Castro	N/A	Notable contributions to Waacking and Voguing, work "Liberate-He."	"Waacking superstar" known for theatrical and expressive contributions.
David Fung	En Beat Dance Academy	Dance assistant & choreographer for Rina Chae, teaches commercial choreography at En Beat.	Works within a renowned academy, engaged with various street dance styles.
Renee "Naynay" Sharp	Projekt Team	Waacking practitioner associated with Projekt Team.	Focuses on creating positive, safe spaces for expression through street dance.
Penelope Penny Shand	Projekt Team	Waacking practitioner associated with Projekt Team.	Focuses on creating positive, safe spaces for expression through street dance.
Lara Chuo (Noir from Avant House of Dawn)	Prowl Productions, Avant House of Dawn	Waacking practitioner with Prowl Productions, member of Avant House of Dawn.	Highlights strong connection between Waacking and the ballroom scene in NZ, queer artistry.

Value of the Table: This table provides a structured, at-a-glance summary of the key individuals shaping the Waacking scene in New Zealand. It allows for easy identification of their primary affiliations, specific contributions, and unique backgrounds, improving comprehension and navigation of the detailed narrative. By showcasing the wide range of individuals and their diverse roles, it emphasizes the depth of human capital driving the scene and facilitates quick cross-referencing between individuals and the organizations/events they are involved with, reinforcing the interconnectedness of the community.

B. Active Crews and Companies

The New Zealand Waacking scene is further bolstered by a network of active crews and companies, each contributing uniquely to the dance's development, training, and visibility.

The Jaackers NZ, established in Auckland in 2015, holds the distinction of being New Zealand's first dedicated Waacking company [user provided text]. This international crew, co-led by Jaydess Nand, maintains a presence in both New Zealand and Australia. Their commitment extends beyond performance, as they actively conduct free workshops to impart Waacking history and foundational techniques, demonstrating a strong dedication to education and community building.

Waackalicious is a dance crew that specializes in the Waacking style. They have gained recognition through their performances at events like Funk Volume 1 and their association with Auckland Pride's Waack Attack, an event that explicitly links Waacking to the LGBTQIA+ community.³⁶ Their presence has also been noted in Instagram posts supporting teams at New Zealand's 2023 HHI National Championships, highlighting their engagement in the competitive circuit.³⁶

The Imperial House of Waacking New Zealand (IHOW_NZ) represents the local chapter of the global Imperial House of Waacking collective, a worldwide movement dedicated to spreading the style and its core message.¹⁰ Under the leadership of Rina Chae as its Mother, IHOW_NZ has achieved significant competitive success, winning New Zealand's World of Dance qualifiers and setting their sights on competing in Los Angeles.³⁷ Their association with Battlezone, a premier street dance event, further underscores their competitive prowess and influence within the broader street dance community.³⁹

Prowl Productions functions as an entertainment company specializing in street dance theatre. They are known for producing impactful shows like 'PROWL' for the Auckland Fringe Festival.³¹ Described as New Zealand's premiere Waacking and street dance company, Prowl Productions actively contributes to community development by offering free workshops in Waacking, Vogue, and Open Choreography, making these styles accessible to a wider audience.³¹ Their productions frequently feature Waacking, with a deliberate focus on highlighting queer people of color and fostering community in Aotearoa through their artistry.¹⁵

Street Candee, along with its broader "Candee Collective," was founded by Rina Chae and stands as a prominent commercial and hip-hop studio/school in New Zealand.¹⁰ Angelika Zueva, a significant dancer in the scene, was an original member of the Street Candee Dance Company.¹⁹ While specific Waacking events directly attributed to the "Candee Collective" are not extensively detailed in the provided information ³⁶, Street Candee's deep involvement in the broader street dance community and Rina Chae's foundational role as a Waacking Mother strongly indicate the integration and offering of Waacking within their programs. Moreover, other commercial studios like Kinetic Dance Studio in Auckland also offer Waacking classes, representing a similar environment where the style is taught.⁴²

En Beat Dance Academy, co-directed by Rina Chae, offers a comprehensive curriculum of street dance classes, including dedicated Waacking classes structured for various skill levels.¹² Their detailed schedule includes specific timings for Kids Waacking, Beginner Waacking, and Int/Adv Open Level Waacking.¹³ Beyond regular classes, En Beat actively hosts workshops and dance parties, such as the "Workshop and Dance Party - at En Beat" events, which contribute significantly to the broader street dance community and frequently feature elements of Waacking.¹² This academy plays a crucial role in nurturing and developing new talent within the Waacking discipline.

The Ladies of Hip Hop New Zealand festival is a significant annual event dedicated to celebrating and uplifting women and girls within Hip Hop and street dance culture, with an explicit inclusion of Waacking.⁴³ Held over two dynamic days, the festival features battle prelims across multiple dance styles, including Waacking, alongside workshops, guest performances, and panel talks.⁴³ The 2025 event, for instance, featured a House Dance Workshop led by international guest Toyin Songunro, underscoring the intersectionality of street dance styles.⁴⁴ This festival provides a vital and empowering platform for female street dancers in New Zealand, emphasizing intergenerational empowerment and the celebration of identity.⁴⁴

The presence of such a diverse array of organizations, from dedicated Waacking companies and international house chapters to street dance theatre companies and broader commercial studios, indicates a robust and maturing Waacking scene in New Zealand. This diversification of platforms suggests that Waacking is not confined to a single niche but is being integrated into various aspects of the dance industry. This ensures its wider reach and sustainability, encompassing foundational training, competitive battles, theatrical performance, and broader cultural festivals.

Furthermore, a strong underlying theme among these active entities is their commitment to community-centric initiatives. The Jaackers NZ, for example, offer free workshops, making the dance accessible to a wider audience. Prowl Productions not only provides free workshops but explicitly focuses on queer and People of Color (POC) communities in their work and outreach.¹⁵ Similarly, the Ladies of Hip Hop New Zealand festival is explicitly designed to empower women and girls in street dance, including Waacking.⁴³ This emphasis on community building, accessibility, and social empowerment reflects Waacking's historical roots as a dance of self-expression for marginalized groups, demonstrating that its cultural values are deeply embedded in its New Zealand development. These initiatives underscore a conscious effort to nurture talent while fostering inclusive and supportive environments.

Table 2: Active Waacking Crews and Companies in New Zealand

Name	Focus/Mission	Key Waacking Activities/Offerings	Notable Affiliations
The Jaackers NZ	New Zealand's first Waacking company, international crew.	Free workshops teaching Waacking history and foundations.	Co-led by Jaydess Nand; presence in NZ and Australia.
Waackalicious	Specializes in Waacking style.	Performances at Funk Volume 1, Auckland Pride's Waack Attack; support at 2023 HHI National Championships.	Associated with Auckland Pride events.
Imperial House of Waacking New Zealand (IHOW_NZ)	NZ chapter of global collective, spreading Waacking style and message.	Won NZ World of Dance qualifiers; aiming for LA competition; associated with Battlezone.	Mothered by Rina Chae; part of global Imperial House of Waacking.
Prowl Productions	Street dance theatre company, creating spaces for femme and street dance styles.	Produces shows like 'PROWL' (Auckland Fringe); free workshops in Waacking, Vogue, Open Choreography; highlights queer POC community.	Described as NZ's premiere Waacking and street dance company.
Street Candee / Candee Collective	Commercial/hip-hop studio/school.	Broader involvement in street dance community; inclusion of Waacking within offerings.	Founded by Rina Chae; Angelika Zueva was original member.
En Beat Dance Academy	Comprehensive street dance classes, fostering new talent.	Dedicated Waacking classes (Kids, Beginner, Int/Adv Open Level); hosts workshops and dance parties.	Co-directed by Rina Chae.
Ladies of Hip Hop New Zealand	Festival celebrating and uplifting women and girls in Hip Hop and street dance culture.	Dance battles (including Waacking), workshops (including Waacking), guest performances, panel talks.	Focus on empowering women and girls; promotes intergenerational empowerment.

Value of the Table: This table provides a clear organizational overview of the Waacking ecosystem in New Zealand, making it easy to understand the major players and their specific contributions. It highlights the programmatic offerings available, which is valuable for aspiring dancers and event organizers. By clearly listing their activities and affiliations, the table helps illustrate the collective impact of these groups on the growth, accessibility, and diverse integration of Waacking within the broader dance landscape.

C. Notable Events, Tournaments, Battles, and Workshops Featuring Waacking

The vibrant pulse of the New Zealand Waacking scene is most evident in its array of events, ranging from pioneering battles to large-scale festivals and theatrical productions. These platforms are crucial for showcasing talent, fostering community, and preserving the dance's cultural roots.

Pioneering battle events have been instrumental in formalizing Waacking as a competitive art form in New Zealand. 'Waack It Out,' founded by Jaydess Nand, holds the distinction of being the first street dance battle competition in NZ to feature a formalized Waacking category [user provided text]. Complementing this, 'Whats Yo Style' is another significant Waacking battle event also established by Jaydess Nand [user provided text]. Her influence extends internationally, as evidenced by her co-founding of 'Waack Is Baack' in New York City, one of the largest Waacking events globally [user provided text]. These events underscore the dedication of New Zealand pioneers to establishing a robust competitive framework for Waacking.

Waacking is increasingly featured on major national and international platforms, broadening its exposure and validating its artistic merit. The Red Bull Dance Your Style National Final, an international all-styles street dance competition, made its debut in Auckland in May 2023, with Rina Chae teaching Waacking as part of the event.¹⁰ This inclusion on a globally recognized platform showcases Waacking's rising prominence. Similarly, the

Ladies of Hip Hop New Zealand Festival is a significant annual event explicitly dedicated to celebrating and uplifting women and girls in Hip Hop and street dance culture, including Waacking.⁴³ This two-day festival features dance battles that include Waacking, alongside workshops and panel talks, serving as a vital platform for the female street dance community and promoting intergenerational empowerment.⁴⁴ The 2025 festival, for instance, is set to include battles across a wide spectrum of street styles, including Hip Hop, Krump, Popping, Locking, House, Breaking, and Vogue OTA, demonstrating the interconnectedness of these dance forms.⁴⁴

A particularly culturally resonant event is the "World of Waacking Battles: Express Your Culture," scheduled for Auckland in June 2025. This event uniquely encourages dancers to represent their ethnic culture through fashion, makeup, or movement.³⁶ This initiative highlights the dance's profound role in celebrating diverse cultural identities within Aotearoa and actively welcomes both seasoned and novice dancers, fostering accessibility and inclusivity.³⁶

Battlezone, described as New Zealand's premier street dance event, is another critical platform, having featured the Imperial House of Waacking NZ in its 2024 iteration.³⁹ This event is a major showcase for street/hip hop dance talent in Aotearoa.³⁹ While not exclusively focused on Waacking,

Battle in the Bay brings together dancers from across New Zealand for competitions, workshops, and networking, supporting the broader street dance scene of which Waacking is an integral part.⁴⁹

Beyond competitive and festival settings, Waacking is also integrated into theatrical and community-focused events. "Club Waack," a theatrical production by Prowl Productions, exemplifies this artistic evolution. It tells a local story of queer people building community in New Zealand and a global narrative of queer struggle through dance.¹⁵ Notably, this production explicitly activates the notion of

whakapapa (genealogy/connection), celebrating the queer Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (QBIPOC) forefathers of Waacking.¹⁵ This demonstrates how Waacking is being utilized as a tool for survival and thriving, deeply intertwined with Indigenous theatre-making and collective memory in Aotearoa. Another community-focused initiative is

"Projekt Feel Good," held in South Auckland, which incorporates "swift vogue movements" and "explosive krumping," showcasing the interconnectedness of various street dance styles and fostering positive, safe spaces for expression.³¹ Renee "Naynay" Sharp and Penelope Penny Shand are associated with Projekt Team, indicating their involvement in such community-centric endeavors.

Auckland Pride's Waack Attack, connected with the Waackalicious crew, explicitly highlights Waacking's strong ties to the LGBTQIA+ community and Pride celebrations.³⁶ Prowl Productions further supports this connection by offering "Fabulous Waacking & Vogue Workshops + Mini Battle" during the Auckland Pride Festival.³¹

Ongoing training and workshops are fundamental to the sustained growth of Waacking. En Beat Dance Academy, for instance, offers regular Waacking classes for various levels and hosts workshops and dance parties throughout the year, contributing significantly to the continuous training and community engagement for Waacking dancers.¹² Similarly,

Prowl Productions provides free dance workshops in Waacking, Vogue, and Open Choreography, ensuring accessibility to these styles for the Auckland area.³¹

The evolution of Waacking events in New Zealand demonstrates a significant trend towards both mainstreaming and specialization. The existence of dedicated Waacking battles, such as 'Waack It Out,' alongside its inclusion in broader all-styles competitions like Red Bull Dance Your Style and the Ladies of Hip Hop NZ festival, illustrates this dual development.¹¹ This indicates that Waacking in New Zealand has achieved a critical mass, allowing it to sustain its own specialized events while simultaneously gaining recognition and exposure within the wider street dance and even mainstream cultural events. This dual approach ensures both the preservation of its unique identity and its continued growth and visibility.

Furthermore, a powerful aspect of these events is the integration of cultural expression as a competitive element. The "World of Waacking Battles: Express Your Culture" event, by explicitly requiring dancers to represent their ethnic heritage through their performance and presentation ³⁶, elevates the dance beyond mere technical display. This is a significant evolution from traditional dance battles, where the emphasis is typically on skill and musicality. By embedding cultural representation into the competitive framework, the New Zealand Waacking scene is actively fostering a deeper connection between the dance and the diverse cultural identities of Aotearoa. This transforms competition into a platform for vibrant cultural celebration and pride, enriching the art form and its community.

Table 3: Significant Waacking Events in New Zealand (Past & Upcoming)

Event Name	Type	Key Waacking Feature	Date/Frequency	Location
Waack It Out	Battle Competition	First formalized Waacking competition in NZ.	Annual (founded by Jaydess Nand)	Auckland
Whats Yo Style	Battle Competition	Major Waacking battle event.	Annual (founded by Jaydess Nand)	Auckland
Red Bull Dance Your Style National Final	All-Styles Battle	Waacking featured as one of the competitive styles; Rina Chae taught.	May 2023 (first time in NZ)	Auckland
Ladies of Hip Hop New Zealand Festival	Festival (Battles, Workshops, Talks)	Includes Waacking battles and workshops; focuses on empowering women/girls in street dance.	Annual (June 7-8, 2025 mentioned)	Auckland (Aotea Centre)
World of Waacking Battles: Express Your Culture	Battle Competition	Dancers represent ethnic culture through performance; welcomes all levels.	June 2025	Auckland
Battlezone	Street Dance Event/Battle	Features Imperial House of Waacking NZ; premier street dance event.	October 4, 2024 (past event mentioned)	Auckland Town Hall
Battle in the Bay	All-Styles Competition/Workshops	Supports broader street dance scene, including Waacking.	November 29-30, 2024 (mentioned)	Hastings
Club Waack	Theatrical Production	Tells local story of queer community building; activates whakapapa.	September 12-16 (past event mentioned)	Auckland (Basement Theatre)
Projekt Feel Good	Community Event	Includes "swift vogue movements" and "explosive krumping" from Projekt Team.	2024 (mentioned)	South Auckland
Auckland Pride's Waack Attack	Community Event	Highlights Waacking's connection to LGBTQIA+ community.	February (part of Pride Festival)	Auckland
En Beat Dance Academy Workshops & Parties	Workshops/Jams	Regular Waacking classes; hosts workshops and dance parties.	Ongoing (e.g., June/August 2025 workshops)	Auckland (En Beat Dance Academy)
Prowl Productions Free Workshops	Workshops	Free workshops in Waacking, Vogue, and Open Choreography.	February 22 (mentioned)	Auckland

Value of the Table: This table provides a comprehensive overview of the event landscape for Waacking in New Zealand, clearly demonstrating its vibrancy and the diverse opportunities for participation and viewership. By specifying event types, key features, dates, and locations, it helps establish a timeline of Waacking's development and its geographical spread, while also informing future engagement for interested parties. It visually reinforces the dual function of events as platforms for both competitive excellence and cultural affirmation.

D. Notable Dancers and Achievements

The talent nurtured within the New Zealand Waacking community has achieved significant recognition, both nationally and on the international stage, underscoring the scene's growing caliber.

Jaydess Nand, a foundational figure, is also a highly decorated Waacking dancer. Her achievements include being crowned the Waacking champion from Unleash The Beast 2015 Australia and the Women's Performance champion from Take The Throne Vogue Ball 2015 NZ [user provided text]. A notable international success was her semi-finalist placement (top 4) at Waack Fest LA, USA in 2015 [user provided text]. These accomplishments highlight her status as a leading figure not just in New Zealand, but within the global Waacking community, demonstrating the high standard of her practice.

Emerging talent is also making significant waves. Stacy Meng, known as Baby XIII, excels across multiple street dance styles, including Waacking, Popping, Locking, and Krump.¹¹ Her competitive prowess was demonstrated by her win in the Youth Division - All Styles at the Step Ya Game Up 2023 competition in New York City.¹¹ Her versatility and international success are strong indicators of the promising new generation of dancers being cultivated in New Zealand.

While primarily known for Hip Hop and Krump, Rian Gounder (Prince Lightsaber) also represents the broader excellence within the New Zealand street dance community that fosters Waacking. He competed in the K.O.B. (King of Buck) dance competition in Japan, earning a silver medal in the under-15 category.¹¹ This marked a historic moment as the first time a New Zealand competitor placed in the youth category of this global event, indicating the broader engagement and international competitive success within the same community that supports Waacking.

The achievements of Jaydess Nand on international stages, such as her semi-finalist placement at Waack Fest LA, and the success of young talents like Stacy Meng winning in New York City, serve as powerful external validation of the high quality and competitive strength of New Zealand Waacking talent. This global recognition not only boosts the morale and profile of the New Zealand Waacking community but also attracts more talent, resources, and international attention, creating a virtuous cycle of growth and excellence. It signifies that the foundational work and community building efforts in New Zealand are producing dancers who can hold their own against international peers, raising the profile of Aotearoa as a significant hub in the global street dance community.

The presence of both established pioneers like Jaydess Nand and promising new generations, exemplified by Stacy Meng, demonstrates a healthy and evolving scene. The inclusion of Rian Gounder, who excels in other street styles, further illustrates the diverse talent pathways within the interconnected world of street dance. This suggests that success in one street dance style can open doors to broader recognition, benefiting Waacking through the cross-pollination of skills and exposure. This intergenerational success and diverse talent pool contribute to the overall dynamism and future potential of Waacking in New Zealand.

Table 4: Notable Waacking Dancers and Achievements in New Zealand

Name	Specialization(s)	Key Achievement(s)/Recognition(s)
Jaydess Nand	Waacking, "Desi Waack"	Waacking champion (Unleash The Beast 2015 Australia), Women's Performance champion (Take The Throne Vogue Ball 2015 NZ), Semi-finalist (top 4) (Waack Fest LA 2015).
Stacy Meng (Baby XIII)	Waacking, Popping, Locking, Krump	Won Youth Division - All Styles (Step Ya Game Up 2023, New York City).
Rian Gounder (Prince Lightsaber)	Hip Hop, Krump (broader street dance community)	Silver medal (K.O.B. dance competition, Japan, under-15 category) - first NZ competitor to place in youth category.
Peggy Yao	Vogue Femme, Vogue Old Way, Waacking	Competitor in Red Bull Dance Your Style NZ Final; noted for personality and passion in competitions.
Earl De Castro	Waacking, Voguing	Competitor in Red Bull Dance Your Style NZ Final; work "Liberate-He" (Tempo Dance Festival) recognized for fusing Waacking/Voguing.

Value of the Table: This table clearly showcases the top talent in the New Zealand Waacking scene and their competitive prowess, both domestically and on the international stage. For aspiring dancers, it provides tangible examples of success and benchmarks for achievement. The list of achievements, particularly international ones, serves as concrete evidence of the maturity and high quality of Waacking in New Zealand, further validating the scene's growth and impact.

IV. Community and Cultural Impact

Waacking in New Zealand transcends its identity as merely a dance style; it functions as a powerful vehicle for community building, profound self-expression, and vibrant cultural celebration. This art form provides essential spaces for individuals to connect, find their voice, and affirm their identities.

Events like "Projekt Feel Good," held in South Auckland, exemplify this community-centric approach. These gatherings, which incorporate "swift vogue movements" and "explosive krumping," demonstrate the inherent interconnectedness of various street dance styles and are designed to create positive, safe spaces for expression.³¹ This focus on fostering supportive environments is crucial, particularly for dance forms that originated in marginalized communities.

A significant aspect of Waacking's cultural impact in Aotearoa is its role in celebrating LGBTQIA+ and diverse cultural identities. The "World of Waacking Battles: Express Your Culture" event, for instance, explicitly encourages dancers to represent their ethnic heritage through their fashion, makeup, or movement.³⁶ This initiative directly highlights the dance's capacity to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures in Aotearoa, reinforcing its deep roots in LGBTQIA+ and People of Color (POC) communities globally.⁴ This approach transforms competitive dance into a platform for cultural affirmation and pride.

The theatrical production "Club Waack" by Prowl Productions further illustrates Waacking's profound cultural significance. This show tells a local story of queer people building community in New Zealand and connects it to a broader global narrative of queer struggle.¹⁵ Crucially, "Club Waack" activates the notion of

whakapapa (genealogy or connection), celebrating the queer Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (QBIPOC) forefathers of Waacking.¹⁵ This demonstrates how Waacking is being utilized as a tool for survival and thriving, deeply intertwined with Indigenous theatre-making and collective memory in Aotearoa.¹⁵ This reveals a profound cultural impact, positioning Waacking as a form of cultural resistance and affirmation within the Aotearoa context, actively challenging existing power structures and providing a voice and platform for marginalized communities.

The involvement of practitioners like Lara Chuo (Noir from Avant House of Dawn) further solidifies Waacking's presence and impact within the growing ballroom scene in New Zealand.³³ The ballroom scene itself serves as a vital safe space for queer communities to celebrate and grow.⁵³ This symbiotic relationship between Waacking and the ballroom culture reinforces the dance's role in fostering a sense of belonging, validation, and empowerment, particularly for those who may face societal challenges outside these dance spaces. The dance becomes a powerful language for articulating and affirming identity.

The continuous efforts of leaders such as Jaydess Nand and Rina Chae are vital for the preservation and intergenerational empowerment within the Waacking community. Through their workshops, events, and formal organizations like En Beat Dance Academy and Ladies of Hip Hop New Zealand, they ensure the historical integrity and foundational techniques of Waacking are passed down to new generations of dancers.⁴⁴ The Ladies of Hip Hop Aotearoa festival, in particular, focuses on intergenerational empowerment, celebrating the

mana (prestige, authority) and leadership of women and girls in Hip Hop culture, including Waacking.⁴⁴ This commitment ensures the dance's legacy and its continued evolution.

The emphasis on "self-expression," "celebrating diverse cultural identities," and creating "safe spaces for expression" ³¹ highlights that Waacking's cultural impact in New Zealand is deeply personal for its practitioners. It is not merely a performance art but a crucial element in individual and collective identity formation. The scene in Aotearoa, through its active integration of local cultural elements and its focus on queer and Indigenous identities, presents a unique model for cultural adaptation. This demonstrates how a global art form can become deeply localized and culturally resonant, serving as an example of how street dance can not only thrive in new environments but also contribute to and be enriched by indigenous cultural frameworks, fostering a truly unique "Aotearoa Waacking" identity.

V. Conclusion and Future Outlook

Waacking in New Zealand has undergone a remarkable evolution, transforming from an internationally inspired dance form into a deeply rooted and culturally significant movement within Aotearoa. This vibrant scene has been meticulously cultivated by pioneering figures such as Jaydess Nand and Rina Chae, whose foresight and dedication have been instrumental in establishing its foundations. Their efforts are complemented by a growing network of talented individuals, including Setu Mosegi, Angelika Zueva, Sarah Reece, Heidi Chen, Peggy Yao, Earl De Castro, David Fung, Renee "Naynay" Sharp, Penelope Penny Shand, and Lara Chuo, all of whom contribute to the dance's diverse landscape.

The community has successfully established dedicated crews, notably The Jaackers NZ and the local chapter of the Imperial House of Waacking New Zealand, alongside dynamic production companies like Prowl Productions. These entities collectively provide essential platforms for rigorous training, competitive excellence, and profound self-expression. Crucially, they also serve as vital spaces for community building and the celebration of diverse identities, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ and Pasifika communities, echoing and adapting Waacking's original ethos of empowerment and visibility.

The burgeoning reputation of New Zealand's Waacking scene is further solidified by the international success of its young champions, such as Stacy Meng and Rian Gounder, who have achieved significant recognition on global stages. This competitive prowess not only elevates the profile of individual dancers but also brings international validation to the quality and depth of talent cultivated in Aotearoa.

The scene's enduring strength is characterized by a strong emphasis on authenticity, a deep commitment to community, and a powerful embrace of cultural expression. This holistic approach positions Waacking as a vital and continuously evolving component of New Zealand's rich and diverse dance landscape. The ongoing commitment to offering free workshops, fostering inclusive events, and providing structured training pathways through academies like En Beat Dance Academy suggests a sustainable and promising future for Waacking in Aotearoa. Its deep integration with critical social and cultural narratives, particularly concerning queer and Indigenous identities, ensures its continued relevance and profound impact extends far beyond the confines of the dance floor, solidifying its place as a powerful cultural force in New Zealand.