This episode takes you on a journey through four decades of movement, community, and identity in New Zealand’s hip-hop dance world.
The Arrival & Early Waves (1980s–1990s)
- Popping debuted in NZ in the early 1980s as part of the breakdancing craze, propelled by TV, movies, and strong links with American and Western Samoa.
- “Bopping,” the Samoan-accented adaptation, points to deep Pacific influence in the style’s local roots.
The Resurgence & Reinvention (2000s–Today)
- The 2000s saw renewal and explosion of workshops, battles, and initiatives, uniting old-school roots with adventurous fusion and uniquely Kiwi flavor.
- Dancers began integrating global innovations with NZ’s identity, laying the groundwork for today’s vibrant community.
Architects of the Scene: Pioneers, Leaders & Artists
- Ross Smith aka Future / Ra Smith: Wellington OG; taught technique and philosophy to the 2000s generation, repping NZ locally and internationally.
- River Vili aka Mase Boog: Over 29 years in popping/boogaloo; mentored by Suga Pop (Electric Boogaloos); a direct link to global pioneers and culture bearer; frequent workshop teacher.
- Diana Hu aka Dianamite: Popping, boogaloo, and breaking specialist; built the Auckland Popping Community (APC); organized jams, pivotal workshops (Mr. Wiggles, Hozin), and international exchanges; member of Boogiehood Connection and other crews.
- Taupuhi Toki aka Taupz/Papa Smurf: Breaking legend, popping scene torchbearer during lean years, grassroots battle/jam pioneer (Queen St jams, Vulcan Lane); active MC and teacher.
- Sejoo Han: Major new-generation leader and “popping powerhouse”; pivotal in reviving regular jams/classes post-2010; collaborative organizer and battle champion; facilitates APC’s current activities.
- Seidah Tuoai: Aotearoa-born Samoan/Cook Island artist, creator of the globally acclaimed “Popping Puletasi”—an innovative fusion of Samoan dance, attire, and popping; workshop leader and film-maker.
- Mr Zee (Zed Nufable): NZ/AU street dance mainstay since the 1980s, international judge, coach (603 Boogie Squad), and educator.
- Many others: Lawrence Liew, Josh “JR” Rumbold, John “Happyfeet” Vaifale (Red Bull champion), Stacey Meng “8face Baby XIII” (youth world champ), Tanky Zong, Daniel Bispo, Popn Ten, Mike Qu, Fan Wang, Teddy, Gino Borromeo, Dezhan Roberts, Justin Ki-Hyun Sung, Popping Octaves (NZ’s Got Talent), Jackal NZ, Kenpachi, Popping Drew (Endshot), Sam Yang, Ezra Bush, Raw Skeen, Tim Cheung, David Yan, Gabriela Quinsacara, and more—each a vital thread in NZ’s story.
Pillars of Community: Organizations & Crews
- Auckland Popping Community/Club (APC): The central hub—Facebook group, now Instagram—hosts free jams, events, and info exchange. Rebranded in 2023, revitalizing its legacy.
- Venues: City Dance Studio (iconic 2010s home); Momentum/MMM Studios; Kinetic Studio (modern hub, home to Friday jams); En Beat Dance Academy, The Spreading Tree, Neverland Studios—these platforms anchor regular jams, classes, and workshops.
- 603 Boogie Squad: A key popping/locking crew (15+ years); notable members and guest instructors.
- Projekt Team, Hopskotch Dance TV, Street Talk NZ, Boogiehood Connection, Instance Movement: Diverse collectives contributing workshops, battle series, and vital archival documentation.
- FL09 (Flow 09): Torch officially passed to this new-gen team in 2024, symbolizing community continuity.
Defining Events, Battles, & Showcases
- NZ Battlegrounds (Hamilton): Epic 1v1 popping showdowns; qualifiers for Australia’s dance championships.
- Te Oro Dance Battles: Celebrating street dance’s legacy with breaking/popping and live music.
- Pop What You Got: Auckland’s signature tournament—showcases veterans, rising stars, and international guests.
- Pop, Lock & Break: Multi-style 3v3 events, inclusive and celebratory.
- Vulcan Lane Battles, Popping Under the Stars, Silo Social, online jams (during COVID)—all foster belonging and innovation.
Show notes
