Year 8 ākonga Skyler Olivier will represent Aotearoa in hip hop dance at WCOPA 2026 in Las Vegas.

Year 8 hip hop dancer heading to Las Vegas

Year 8 ākonga Skyler Olivier has earned a spot on Team New Zealand for the 2026 World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA), set to take place in Las Vegas. Skyler will compete in the solo Hip Hop category, representing both Aotearoa and Orewa College on a global stage.

Departing in July 2026 as part of the national Black Stars squad, Skyler is one of a select few chosen to showcase their skills at this prestigious event. The WCOPA is often referred to as the 'Olympics for performing artists', bringing together talent from more than 60 countries.

Skyler’s selection is a proud moment for the kura and offers inspiration to other ākonga and dancers to explore and excel in their creative pursuits.

Photo credit: Chantel Olivier