Popping, a dynamic street dance style born in Fresno, California, has carved out a significant cultural niche within Aotearoa New Zealand's thriving hip-hop landscape. Its journey in New Zealand is a compelling story of cultural exchange, local adaptation, and the enduring power of dance as a form of identity and expression.
Early Waves: The 1980s and 1990s
Popping first landed on New Zealand's shores in the early 1980s, an integral part of the burgeoning breakdancing movement. This introduction was largely fueled by global media, specifically television and movies, alongside direct cultural ties with American Samoa and Western Samoa. A fascinating local adaptation emerged during this period: the term "bopping," a direct result of a Samoan pronunciation of "popping." This linguistic shift highlights the profound influence of Samoan culture on the dance form's early development in New Zealand.
Breakdancing, including popping, deeply resonated with New Zealand's youth, particularly Māori and Pacific Islanders. It offered a powerful avenue for self-expression and recognition beyond traditional academic or sporting pursuits. This cultural significance was formally acknowledged through early national breakdancing competitions specifically sponsored for young Māori and Pacific Islanders.
1984: The Bop Olympics was held at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland, a landmark event for the burgeoning New Zealand breakdancing scene.
1985: The televised Shazam Bop Competition further solidified breakdancing's presence in mainstream culture.
Despite this initial surge in popularity, breakdancing's mainstream visibility waned throughout most of the 1990s. However, its roots, especially within Pacific Island communities, remained strong, forming a crucial foundation for its eventual resurgence.
The Resurgence: 2000s Onwards
The 2000s marked a period of renewed vitality and significant development for the New Zealand popping scene. This era has witnessed a proliferation of workshops, battles, and community-driven initiatives, breathing new life into the dance form. Dancers have not only refined traditional techniques but also boldly explored fusions with other styles and local cultural forms, contributing to a unique "Kiwi" popping identity.
The Architects of Movement: Pioneers, Founders, Leaders, and Notable Dancers
The New Zealand popping scene has been shaped by a diverse array of talented individuals who have dedicated themselves to the art form, many of whom have passed the torch to new generations.
Ross Smith aka Future / Ra Smith: An Original Generation (OG) NZ popper based in Wellington, Ra Smith was instrumental in teaching many of the 2000s generation. He didn't just share moves but also imparted the philosophy, roots, and context of popping. He adapted popping to suit New Zealand and represented the country both locally and abroad, notably being featured on the OPS-PM Popcast.
River Vili aka Mase Boog: Revered as a true OG of the New Zealand popping scene, Mase Boog boasts over 29 years of popping and boogaloo experience, with 25 years dedicated to the "boog" style. He is famed for his fluid style and has had over two decades of direct mentorship with Suga Pop of the Electric Boogaloos, proudly being a member of the Electric Boogaloos family. He is crucial in preserving and transmitting the culture's essence and serves as a key connection between NZ and global pioneers. Mase Boog regularly shares his extensive knowledge through workshops.
Diana Hu aka Dianamite: A versatile force in the scene, Diana excels in Popping, Boogaloo, and Breaking. She is the backbone behind the Auckland Popping Community (APC) and a tireless organizer, actively hosting jams and events. Diana has fostered spaces for learning and community while elevating standards, notably by organizing pivotal workshops with international legends like Mr. Wiggles and Hozin. Her dedication to learning, teaching, competing, judging, and performing has taken her both nationally and internationally. She is a member of "Boogiehood Connection," "Instance Movement," and "3K Calibre." She frequently teaches foundational dance knowledge alongside Taupuhi Toki.
Taupuhi Toki aka Taupz aka Bboy Papa Smurf: A breaking legend and popping guardian, Taups was crucial in keeping popping alive during slumps. He ran central city jams on Queen Street, engaged in busking, and organized Vulcan Lane battles, promoting grassroots connection and the joy of dance, not just competition. He is an active participant, competitor, and judge. Taups has collaborated with BreaksNZ and the Mika Haka Foundation, and frequently teaches foundational dance knowledge alongside Diana Hu. He is a familiar face as an MC for battles.
Sejoo Han: A torchbearer for the new generation, Sejoo has been popping in NZ for over 10 years, mentored by OGs, and is widely recognized as a "popping powerhouse" and prominent dancer. He was pivotal in restarting regular classes and jams, and nurturing a thriving, collaborative club. Sejoo was part of the winning "Mighty Zong Kitchen" team. He's also a member of Projekt Team and has strong ties to the Auckland University Dance Association (AUDA) and the Auckland Popping Community/Club. Sejoo emphasizes musicality and the development of a unique personal style. As the current facilitator of the Auckland Popping Club, he continues to teach popping and host free jams every Friday, having been passed the torch by the OGs a decade ago. He also represented NZ popping in Europe.
Seidah Tuoai: An Aotearoa-born Samoan and Cook Island creative with 15 years of street dance experience, Seidah is a member of Projekt Team and Watchmin fam. She is notably the innovator behind the “Popping Puletasi”, a groundbreaking practice-led research initiative that fuses Samoan traditional dance and attire (siva Samoa and puletasi) with popping. This fusion has gained global recognition, with shoutouts from pioneers like Junior Boogaloo and Popping Pete. Seidah runs workshops and video series, passionately sharing and uplifting the community. She received funding to create a short film depicting the lived experience of Pasifika people during the Dawn Raids through Siva and Popping. She is currently shifting her creative focus towards choreography for film and video. The "Popping Puletasi" was also showcased at Battlezone, New Zealand's premier street dance competition.
Mr Zee "Zed Nufable": A highly respected figure across the New Zealand and Australian street dance communities, Mr. Zee specializes in Hip Hop Freestyle, House, and Popping. His street dance journey began in the Philippines in the 1980s, and he has competed, battled, and judged internationally since 2003. He coaches the 603 Boogie Squad and mentors aspiring young talent.
Lawrence Liew: A passionate dancer whose expertise spans house and popping, Lawrence has extensive teaching experience. He actively supports the local dance community by sponsoring Neverland Studios and nurturing young talent. He is dedicated to teaching popping to diverse age groups, contributing to the broader accessibility of the dance form.
Josh Rumbold "JR": A popping specialist and the photographer for "Boppalympics 2.0." His involvement in organizing dance gatherings is evident as he was congratulated for the successful "Unleash The Funk" event. Josh moved to Auckland in March 2021 and was warmly welcomed with a jam session.
John Vaifale "Happyfeet": A dynamic Hip Hop Freestyler who masterfully blends various styles including Hip Hop, Locking, Popping, Krump, and House. He was crowned the Red Bull Dance Your Style NZ National Champion in 2023 and proudly represented New Zealand at the World Finals in Frankfurt, Germany, in November 2023. John also secured a win in the "Build a Team" Battles with his crew 'STILL UNDERGROUND'. He is a go-to DJ for battles and jams.
Stacey Meng "8face Baby XIII": A remarkable young dancer who, at just 10 years old, achieved international acclaim by winning the Youth Division - All Styles category at "Step Ya Game Up 2023" in New York City. She demonstrates impressive proficiency across multiple street dance styles, including popping, and is a member of the 603 Boogie Squad.
Tanky Zong: A key member of the "Mighty Zong Kitchen" team, which won a competition alongside Sejoo Han. He is also associated with the 603 Boogie Squad. Tanky Zong has shared his popping knowledge by teaching classes at The Spreading Tree Studio.
Daniel Bispo: Identified as a member of the "Fownk Squad" within the 603 Boogie Squad. Daniel actively participated in a fundraiser busking jam.
Popn Ten: An active member of the Auckland Popping Community (APC). Popn Ten has been featured in busking sessions on Queen Street and judged battles like the NZ Battlegrounds.
Mike Qu: A notable participant in the Auckland Popping Jam, battling against Teddy and Gino, and a finalist in the APC Popping Battle against Fan. He made a welcome return to the popping jam in December 2019.
Fan Wang: A strong competitor in popping battles, Fan reached the finals of the APC Popping Battle in 2014 against Mike. He also secured a semi-final tiebreak win at "Waack It Out" in 2013 and was a battle guest for "Pop What You Got" in October 2023. He was also a judge at Pop What You Got.
Teddy: Competed in the Auckland Popping Jam in 2013, battling Diana, Mike, and Seidah. He also competed in "Waack It Out."
Gino Borromeo: Participated in the APC Funkstyles Showcase at BOTY NZ in July 2014. He battled Mike in the Auckland Popping Jam in 2013.
Dezhan Roberts: Performed a solo in October 2013 and competed in "Waack It Out" in 2013.
Justin Ki-Hyun Sung: An active administrator for the Auckland Popping Community's Facebook page, Justin regularly participates in and shares information about jams and events.
Octaves Sylver / Popping Octaves: Performed in the APC Funkstyles Showcase at BOTY NZ in July 2014. Popping Octaves took popping to national TV on NZ’s Got Talent in 2012, inspiring a new generation and breaking stereotypes. Octaves Sylver co-led the popping community showcase battles at Battlegrounds in July 2019. He also served as DJ Mercer for the Street Talk Video Mash Up in October 2015.
Jackal NZ: A prolific presence on social media, Jackal shares his own popping performances and music. He performed in Sydney at "To the top" in 2014 and competed in the UK B-Boy Poppin Battle in April 2017.
Other influential figures: Dominik, Peter, Philbert (from Animated CountrysiderZ), Kenpachi, Popping Drew (Endshot), Sam Yang, Ezra Bush, Raw Skeen, Tim Cheung, David Yan, Gabriela Quinsacara (international judge guest at Pop What You Got), Poppin Jack (Australia) (ongoing influence since 2002, key trans-Tasman figure, judge), Josh Cesan (Control & Isolation Judge), Ooshcon (Waving Judge), Justin, Samuel, Joshua, Angel, Maestro, Flavelle, Keiran, Patrick, Lady T, Koh Yamada, and Silkboogiestf.
Pillars of the Community: Organizations, Crews, and Community Hubs
The enduring vitality of New Zealand's popping scene is largely a testament to its dedicated network of dance crews and community organizations, supported by key physical hubs.
Auckland Popping Community (APC) / Auckland Popping Club (APC): This vital public Facebook group serves as a central nexus for dancers to connect and share information, playing a crucial role in disseminating news about classes, workshops, and events. The APC regularly hosts free popping jam sessions, fostering intergenerational connections and a supportive environment. In May 2023, the Auckland Popping Community rebranded to Auckland Popping Club and shifted its primary platform to Instagram, aiming to revitalize the scene and return to its "old times" at City Dance Studio. The club's vision is to recapture and future-proof the scene, driven by new leaders reclaiming energy from the City Dance Studio era.
Physical Hubs:
City Dance Studio: A legendary home above Queen St McDonald’s, it was the benchmark for APC’s vibrant era in the 2010s.
Momentum Studios / MMM Studios: A mainstay for consistent jams and classes in the late 2010s–2020s.
Kinetic Studio: APC’s modern heart since 2024, offering free, inclusive Friday night popping jams (open to all levels) and an accessible pathway for newcomers via open classes then jams.
AUT Dance Studios, En Beat Dance Academy: Offer popping workshops/classes, structured and ongoing education, with teachers like Zed Nufable/Mr. Zee and Mano Yu. En Beat Dance Academy and Movementum Studio serve as key venues for jams and workshops.
The Spreading Tree Studio: Where Tanky Zong has taught popping classes.
Neverland Studios: Supported by Lawrence Liew.
ZONGKITCHEN: Venue for "Funk in da House" in March 2024.
603 Boogie Squad: An active dance group focusing on Popping and Locking, consistently participating in and supporting events. Notable members include Mr Zee (coach), Daniel Bispo, and Stacey Meng "8face Baby XIII." They recently celebrated their 15th anniversary, a testament to their longevity and commitment.
Projekt Team: Known for their inventive and family-friendly street dance battles, such as 'Pick & Battle,' which uniquely features New Zealand homegrown music. Key members include Villa Lemanu, Myke Davis Hoeft, Mele Tapueluelu, Seidah Tuoai, and Sejoo Han. They also organized "Projekt Feel Good" street dance expos, contributing to the broader dance landscape.
Hopskotch Dance Crew / Hopskotch Dance TV: This crew operates a dedicated YouTube channel that meticulously documents the New Zealand street dance scene, including popping events, interviews, and battles. The Auckland Popping Community official YouTube channel was also launched in 2014.
Street Talk NZ: An organization deeply embedded in urban dance culture, Street Talk NZ consistently hosts workshops, events, and community initiatives.
Boogiehood Connection: An NZ Funkstyles crew with a long history. Videos of "owen BHC popping prelims" and "lizah BHC popping prelims" from 18 years ago (circa 2006) are available, showcasing their enduring presence.
Instance Movement: Primarily a breaking crew, Instance Movement notably collaborated with APC for a Chinese Night Performance in 2015, demonstrating inter-style cooperation.
FL09 (Flow 09): A new generation popping team in New Zealand, to whom the torch was officially passed in May 2024, signifying the continuation of the scene's legacy.
Mighty Zong Kitchen: A successful team that won a competition, featuring talented dancers like Sejoo Han and Tanky Zong.
AUDA (Auckland University Dance Association): A university dance association with connections to prominent figures like Sejoo Han and a guest performer at "Pop What You Got." An Auckland Popping Community Showcase was documented at Auckland University a decade ago.
The Beat of the Scene: Defining Events, Tournaments, Battles, Jams, and Workshops (Chronological)
New Zealand's popping scene thrives on a vibrant and active calendar of events, fostering community and pushing the boundaries of the art form.
Workshops and Training Initiatives
Workshops are absolutely fundamental to the continuous skill development and growth within New Zealand's popping community. The New Zealand scene has been enriched by workshops from internationally renowned artists such as Mr. Wiggles, Hozin, Suga Pop, Pop Kun, and Henry Link, bringing global expertise directly to local dancers.
2012: A notable Hozin Workshop Showcase with APC was held, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
2013: Zed aka BoogiebotZee held a workshop.
2014: Lawrence Liew taught a free popping class at Aotea Square for Popping Under the Stars.
January 2021: Seidah Tuoai led innovative popping fusion workshops.
January-February 2024: The Auckland Popping Club hosted impactful workshops with Ladina (Germany), an Electric Boogaloo family member and Suga Pop student, and Mase Boog, bringing global funk lineage direct to local dancers.
Ongoing: Mase Boog regularly conducts workshops. Diana Hu and Taupuhi Toki frequently collaborate to offer comprehensive B-Boy & B-Girl workshops, emphasizing foundational moves. Lawrence Liew is dedicated to teaching popping to diverse age groups. The Auckland Popping Community (APC) is a hub for learning, hosting regular free popping jam sessions that often incorporate structured beginner drills and open cyphers. En Beat Dance Academy and Movementum Studio serve as key venues.
February 2025: Mase Boog conducted another highly sought-after popping and boogaloo workshop.
June 7-8, 2025: Ladies of Hip Hop Aotearoa 2025 (Presented by Rina Chae and En Beat Academy) featured workshops led by international trailblazers and homegrown talent, offering opportunities to train, connect, and be inspired in an empowering, inclusive environment. International House dance icon Toyin Sogunro from New York City also delivered a masterclass.
Regular Jams and Sessions
These sessions are a cornerstone of the community, fostering informal learning and connection.
January 2014: Members of the APC actively engaged in busking on Queen Street. Notable performances included Nate, Popn Ten, and Joe.
February 2024: An APC jam session reunited long-standing members.
Ongoing: Auckland Popping Jam / APC Friday Jam sessions are often held weekly at various locations like Movementum Dance Studio (16 Morgan St, Newmarket) and Kinetic Dance Studio (18/20 Lorne Street, Auckland CBD). These are inclusive, welcoming all skill levels, and often incorporate beginner drills alongside advanced cyphers. Busking Sessions continue on Queen Street, Vulcan Lane, and other city locations, often as fundraisers or spontaneous open jams. Vulcan Lane Battles are community-rooted events that prioritize fun and connection, sustaining the scene during quieter periods. Online Jams were hosted via Zoom during the 2020 lockdown, keeping the community connected.
Major Competitions and Showcases (Chronological)
These events provide platforms for dancers to compete, showcase their skills, and connect with a wider audience.
2011: For The Love Battle was a powerful community event, raising funds for Christchurch Earthquake relief through battles and showcases.
2012: Popping Octaves took popping to national TV on NZ’s Got Talent, inspiring a new generation and breaking stereotypes.
2013:
Treason 2013 featured captivating popping showcases.
Waack It Out 2013 was significant as the first street dance battle competition in New Zealand to formally feature Wacking, while also including popping battles. Lawrence Liew reached the semi-finals, and Fan Wang won a semi-final tiebreak. Teddy and Dezhan Roberts also competed.
BattleCry Popping Final 2013 saw a memorable showdown between "Philbert" from Animated CountrysiderZ and "Fan" from China.
School Yard Breaks 2013 took place in Christchurch, demonstrating the dance's reach across the country.
The All Styles 2013 Popping battles included: Popping Drew vs Kenpachi, Kenpachi vs Mike, Mike vs Teddy, Teddy vs Diana, Dominik vs Peter, Seidah vs Teddy vs Mike, Mike vs Gino, Peter vs Mike, Lawrence vs ???, Fan vs Lawrence, and Seidah vs Leonid. Mike Qu was a notable participant, battling against Teddy and Gino, and a finalist against Fan. Dezhan Roberts performed a solo in October.
2014:
APC Funkstyles Showcase at BOTY NZ saw the APC proudly represent the funkstyles in July.
Popping Under the Stars, hosted by Auckland Live, offered a free class and a captivating showcase by the Auckland Popping Community.
Fan Wang reached the finals of the APC Popping Battle against Mike.
Jackal NZ performed in Sydney at "To the top."
The Auckland Popping Community official YouTube channel was launched.
February 2015: Silo Social, a collaborative event by TheBreaksNZ, Auckland Popping Community, and DreamCatchersWorldwide, featured open floor jams, workshops, and exciting Poppers vs Bboys exhibition battles.
October 2015: Octaves Sylver served as DJ Mercer for the Street Talk Video Mash Up.
April 2017: Jackal NZ competed in the UK B-Boy Poppin Battle.
July 2017: NZ Battlegrounds saw Sejoo Han clinch victory in the 1v1 popping category. Seidah Tuoai judged.
September 2018: "Fists of Fury: The Last Clan Standing" was planned for Wellington.
July 2018: NZ Battlegrounds saw Popn Ten judge.
December 2018: NZ Battlegrounds saw Sejoo Han clinch victory in the 1v1 popping category again.
March 2019: "Camp Heights" was an all-style battle event with Krump and Street divisions.
June 2019:
The "Creative Collision Projects dance summit" featured compelling popping battles, with Mang Yu emerging victorious.
Diana Hu proudly represented the APC at "Long Live The Queen," an all-styles event.
July 2019:
NZ Battlegrounds featured 1v1 popping and all-styles battles. Octaves Sylver co-led the popping community showcase battles.
Sejoo Han returned to the popping jam in December.
August 2019: KOD Aus&NZ Qualifier offered winners flights to compete in the prestigious World Cup 2020.
January 2020: Projekt Team organized the "Boogie for a Buck" busking fundraiser in Vulcan Lane.
February 2020: Sulphur City Shakedown, a 2v2 battle event, brought the heat to Rotorua.
March 2021: Josh Rumbold moved to Auckland and was warmly welcomed with a jam session.
May 2023:
Red Bull Dance Your Style NZ made its Aotearoa debut. John "Happyfeet" Vaifale was crowned the NZ National Champion and went on to represent NZ at the World Finals in Frankfurt, Germany, in November 2023.
Josh Rumbold competed at the Red Bull Dance Your Style NZ Final.
The Auckland Popping Community rebranded to Auckland Popping Club.
October 2023: Pop What You Got Vol. 1, Auckland’s top 16 1v1 series, was hosted by Sejoo Han. Fan Wang was a battle guest.
February 2024:
Pop, Lock & Break, a 3v3 format fusing popping, locking, and breaking, was held. Mase Boog, Diana Hu, and John "Happyfeet" Vaifale were judges/DJ. It was organized by Street Talk NZ. The 603 Boogie Squad consistently participates.
Popn Ten was part of an APC jam session that reunited long-standing members.
March 2024: Funk in da House, an energetic 1v1 popping and house battle, took place at ZONGKITCHEN. Daniel Bispo was a judge.
May 2024:
Te Oro Dance Battles / Te Oro Tekau (10-year anniversary) hosted intense 1v1 Breaking and Popping battles. Daniel Bispo was a judge for the 1v1 Popping battles. Taupuhi Toki was an MC for this event.
The torch was officially passed to FL09 (Flow 09), a new generation popping team in New Zealand, signifying the continuation of the scene's legacy.
October 2024: Pop What You Got Vol. 2 was held at Takutai Square, Britomart, involving collaboration with Projekt Team. Diana Hu and Taupuhi Toki as judges. John "Happyfeet" Vaifale was a DJ for this event. Fan Wang and Justin Ki-Hyun Sung are battle guests. AUDA was also a guest performer.
December 2024: An End of Year Party Jam with free pizza and lively DJ sets is planned by the Auckland Popping Club.
June 7-8, 2025: ‘HERSTORY’ – Ladies Of Hip Hop Aotearoa 2025, presented by Rina Chae and En Beat Academy, featured exhibition battles across styles including Popping, with crews from Team Fiji, Team NZ, and Team AUS going head-to-head. The event also included panel kōrero and live performances from artists and crews across the Pacific.