Congratulations to Dornia Silupe-Ulumani on progressing to the next stage of Smokefreerockquest and being named among the top 35 acts in New Zealand.

Year 11 student Dornia Silupe-Ulumani has taken another exciting step towards the Smokefreerockquest National Final after being selected among the top 35 acts in New Zealand.

Following her second-place finish in the Solo/Duo category and her Best Lyrics Award at the Auckland regional finals, Dornia submitted video recordings of three original, unreleased songs for national judging. From around 100 regional finalists, including bands and solo or duo acts from across the country, she has progressed to the next stage of the competition. She is also one of just 15 solo or duo artists to reach the top 35.

The final national finalists will be announced this Friday, with eight bands and seven solo or duo acts earning a place at the Smokefreerockquest National Final in Wellington on 17 September. If selected, Dornia will represent Onehunga High School on the national stage.

Reaching the top 35 nationally is a significant achievement and reflects the quality of Dornia's original songwriting and performance. We wish Dornia all the very best for Friday's announcement.