Unpack the untold, electrifying story of locking in Aotearoa with this rich, deeply researched episode—a sweeping journey across decades as we trace the roots, rise, and revolution of New Zealand’s locking dance scene.

We open by shining a spotlight on the OGs and early pioneers—the individuals whose flavor, tenacity, and flair laid down the first funk fever in the Kiwi street dance landscape. Meet Locking Lizah and Vaugh Aiono of the formative crew BoogieHood Connection, igniting explosive battles like the legendary “Rock The Top 1.0” in 2008. Experience the roots of competition and kinship as we unearth the story of Joshua “Kokonut/Koko Lock” Mitikulena—battler, founder of Projekt Team and Hopskotch, Boogie Zone Global Showcase veteran, and pivotal spark for a movement.

Delve into the backbone of NZ locking: the dedicated organizations, creative crews, and digital collectives archiving every step, beat, and story. From the ever-active NZ Lockers Facebook group and the visually vibrant NZ Campbellockers Instagram (spearheaded by John Bernardo), to dynamic venues such as Kinetic Studio, En Beat Dance Academy, and the legacy TST Studio, this episode is a backstage pass to every incubator of energy, artistry, and community in the Aotearoa locking world. We also celebrate the tireless documentation by Street Talk NZ and Hopskotch Dance TV, and the digital footprint carved by LH Combine’s “Lock It In” event series.

Witness the scene’s transformation from raw jams and grassroots battles to a thriving, structured network driven by leaders who merge the old school with the next wave. Hear first-hand from the next generation of icons:

• Kat Walker (Katto Lock), the spontaneous soul and trusted educator nurturing raw talent
• Mele “Marshmele” Taeiloa, educator, performer, and judge guiding young dancers at Manurewa High School and beyond
• John Bernardo (JB/Prevail), a powerhouse mentor, educator, and leader of NZ Campbellockers
• John Vaifale (HappyFeet), whose multi-style mastery and cultural fusion shape every cypher and battle
• Zed Nufable (Mr. Zee/BoogiebotZee) and Rina Chae, the driving force behind En Beat Dance Academy and the Ladies of Hip Hop Aotearoa movement for women in street dance

Relive milestone events and legendary battles—Rock the Top 1.0 (2008), the surge of structured contests like Battlegrounds NZ, and the new school’s competitive heartbeat: Pop, Lock & Break It, Lock It In, and Red Bull Dance Your Style NZ. Discover the historic weekly locking workshops at Manurewa High—initiated by Bernardo, Taeiloa, Walker, and HappyFeet—which became a crucible for new generations, embedding foundational power and cultural connection.

We reflect on vital turning points, from the rise of mentorship as “free cheat codes,” to the enduring role of Māori and Pacific Island youth in giving locking renewed voice and mana in Aotearoa.

Hear how luminaries like John Bernardo contend with the challenges: authenticity versus commercialization, fading OGs, the urgent mission to honor Black cultural roots, and why community comes before the dance itself.

With its vibrant present and promising future, New Zealand’s locking scene is alive—a living fabric woven from cypher jams, celebration, and deep respect. Join us as we honor its roots, its keepers, and its dazzling new stars, ensuring this powerful legacy continues to “lock” in generations to come.

Show notes