Mika to stand in Auckland Central for Gareth Morgan's new party

Entertainer Mika (left) has worked with Mike King on a suicide prevention project. Photo / Dean Purcell

A breakdance pioneer, actor and artist will go up against Nikki Kaye in Auckland Central in September's election.

Gareth Morgan's Opportunities Party (TOP) has announced Mika as its Auckland Central candidate.

Mika's artistic career has covered stage, film, television, fashion and music, including appearing in the Oscar-winning film The Piano, Shortland Street, and Mika Haka Kids. He has performed for Prince Charles and at 10 Edinburgh Festivals.

His Mika Haka Foundation works in schools and the community to help young people through the performing arts and physical culture.

"I've been approached before about getting into politics with other parties but they all wanted to use my profile rather than genuinely allow me to have a voice," Mika said.

Morgan said Mika would help promote TOP's policies that would solve the serious issues faced by young Kiwis.

"We have a groundbreaking new policy for youth to announce in about a month and Mika will be a big part of taking that message of hope to a group of New Zealanders who have been left disadvantaged and disenfranchised by the establishment parties."

Earlier this year, Mika worked with comedian Mike King on a suicide prevention project called Aroha'17.

Auckland Central has been held by Kaye since 2008. Labour's candidate is employment lawyer Helen White, who is standing after Jacinda Ardern ran in and won the Mt Albert byelection in February.