He's had a glittering career which involved playing Simba in Disney's The Lion King, opening for Beyonce and is a national and world judge for Hip Hop International Australia and World Supremacy Battlegrounds - but Turanga Merito has never forgotten where he came from.
Now he's hoping to inspire the next generation of Rotorua youngsters to dream big by running two special hip hop dance workshops on Tuesday, through Lakes Performing Arts Company.
Company director Rebecca Daniels said it was an "amazing opportunity" for kids to learn from Mr Merito - who she said was one of Australasia's most recognised choreographers and performers.
Miss Daniels said Mr Merito was a prime example for kids wanting to pursue performing arts, as he had done it.
"It makes them realise 'hey I can do this, look at how successful he is'."
As well as running the workshops, Miss Daniels said he would do a question and answer session afterwards.
"I love how he is so keen to always give back, and always make sure he remembers his roots."
She said because Lakes Performing Arts Company was all about making performing arts affordable and accessible to students, the workshops were just $5 to cover costs.
Mr Merito said he couldn't wait to help inspire those at the workshops.
"I am beyond thrilled to be home in Rotorua, teaching my craft to the future generation of dancers and artists who live and breathe the same spiritual fire of this place I was raised with, through Lakes Performing Arts Company."
Mr Merito said, as well as sharing his skills teaching the dance workshops, he planned to give an insight into the audition, visa and working process.
"My goal is to workshop whoever comes vigorously, with passion and technique, hopefully giving them a sense of self belief that they can achieve anything they want to in this world of performing arts, reiterating the fact that just because they are from provincial New Zealand, this does not limit your options."
The junior hip hop workshop is for those under-14, and will run from 4.15pm to 5.45pm, while the senior hip hop workshop for 14 years and older will run from 5.45pm to 7.15pm. Both are being held at Western Heights High School.
Places for the workshops are limited. To register email info@lakesperformingsarts.com or phone (021) 256 8345.
Turanga Merito's achievements
- Played Simba in Disney's The Lion King in Sydney, Melbourne and China
- Vocal coach for X Factor New Zealand
- Toured with Guy Sebastian and opened for Beyonce with Stan Walker on his national tour
- Head choreographer at Christmas in the Park
- National and World Judge for Hip Hop International Australia and World Supremacy Battlegrounds