Chidokan Karate is a well-established karate school located in Auckland, New Zealand. Founded in 1954 by Takeshi Sasaki in Japan, Chidokan has a rich history and strong connexions to other Chidokan organisations worldwide. The first Chidokan dojo in New Zealand was opened in Auckland in 1968, and currently, there are three dojos located in different areas of the city.
At Chidokan, students are encouraged to develop their physical fitness and strength, knowing that the mind will benefit as well. The school offers specially designed programmes that cater to individuals of all fitness levels, including those who may be initially unfit. Juniors aged from 8 to 15 are taught age-appropriate authentic karate, with belt promotions and sport karate activities included in the junior syllabus.
Young people at Chidokan learn important values such as self-confidence, good character, and a sense of fair play while enjoying the results of their efforts. For adults aged 16 and above, it is never too late to start or return to karate-do. The training is tailored to the student's fitness level, knowledge, and ability, with positive encouragement given at their own pace. Classes typically consist of a diverse group of individuals, both young and old, male and female.
Chidokan NZ operates a grading system that allows students to advance and build self-confidence as they progress. Through continual training, students improve their techniques and move up the ranks, indicated by different coloured obis (belts). The organisation has been teaching authentic Japanese-style karate in New Zealand since its inception, providing top-level, professionally conducted tuition by Japan-trained instructors.
In addition to regular classes, Chidokan also offers short, effective self-defence courses. The instructors at Chidokan are highly experienced and hold varying ranks. At the Avondale dojo, students will be taught by Kancho Jack Sims Sensei, who is a 9th Dan. Other instructors include Simon Merrick Sensei (7th Dan), Grant Holland Sensei (6th Dan), Luke Jackson Sensei (4th Dan), Simon Rosser Sensei (4th Dan), and Praseep Anaduri Sensei (3rd Dan).
At the Papatoetoe dojo, Chris Hall Sensei (5th Dan) leads the classes, with Tony Young Sensei (4th Dan), Kaylee Philpott Sensei (1st Dan), and Amber Le Sensei (1st Dan) also instructing. At the Takapuna dojo, Shihan Neil Parker Sensei (5th Dan) is the lead instructor.
To get started with Chidokan Karate, individuals can visit one of the three dojos located in Avondale, Papatoetoe, or Takapuna. The dojo locations and class schedules can be found on the Chidokan website or by contacting the school directly.