Port Hills Karate Christchurch is a karate school offering classes for all ages and skill levels. Located in a safe and family-friendly dojo, the school is dedicated to providing top-quality instruction in the Japanese martial art of karate. Led by qualified and experienced instructors, students receive comprehensive training in striking, blocking, kicking, grappling, and takedowns.
The classes at Port Hills Karate incorporate a variety of elements to help students develop their skills. Basic technique instruction forms the foundation of each class, ensuring that students have a strong understanding of proper techniques and form. Pre-arranged forms, known as kata, are also taught, which helps students practise sequences of movements and learn the practical applications of karate techniques. In addition, sparring, or kumite, is a vital component of the training programme, allowing students to apply their skills in a controlled environment.
Emphasis is placed on good technique, posture, and biomechanics at Port Hills Karate. The instructors are dedicated to helping students develop a thorough understanding of the principles behind each technique, ensuring that they can execute them effectively. At intermediate and advanced levels, students have the opportunity to practise both competition-style karate and self-defence training, further enhancing their abilities.
Founded in 2015 by fourth-degree black belt and former Karate New Zealand national team member, Dan Jakes, Port Hills Karate has grown into a respected karate school in Christchurch. The dojo is now run by Tyrone Paton, a dedicated and skilled instructor who graduated to black belt at PHK after training for over two decades in various styles of karate and other martial arts. Tyrone is passionate about incorporating elements from other disciplines and focuses on the practical application of karate techniques as a martial art.
Port Hills Karate offers classes at two locations. The Spreydon class takes place at St Martin's Church Gym on Mondays, with a kids' class for ages 5-9 from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm and an adults' class for ages 10 and older from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The Diamond Harbour class is held at Diamond Harbour School Old Library on Wednesdays from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm for students aged 5 and above.
Enrolment in a class can be done by contacting Port Hills Karate directly. The fees for classes are $120 per 10-week term, with no classes held during school holidays or public holidays. Fees must be paid at the beginning of the term or when joining the club. Family deals are available, with a 15% discount offered for two or more family members.
Additionally, all parents can train for free in the 4:00 pm (Diamond Harbour) and 4:30 pm (Spreydon) classes.
At Port Hills Karate, grading and advancement in rank are taken seriously. The minimum duration of training between grades is six months for white to purple belts and one year for brown belts. Black belt (Dan grades) are offered by invitation only, with students required to demonstrate dedication, effort, and good character during their training.
For those interested in Port Hills Karate, the school's social media and club directories provide a wealth of information, including a gallery of photos showcasing the dojo and the students' achievements. The school's mission is to create a friendly and respectful environment where students can learn and grow in their karate practise. Join Port Hills Karate today and embark on a journey of self-improvement and personal development through the art of karate.