Testimonials

Testimonials

“Since starting Kyokushin in 1994 I can’t recall Chris taking 2 sessions the same or a single session without at least one new concept, analogy or fresh insight.  Chris has an innate ability to absorb information, process it overnight and incorporate it into his teaching the next day.  I’ve seen him do this with information he picks up anywhere, school, Discovery Channel, books, the newspaper, doctors, other instructors, students… it’s become my game to feed him research I get via my work at SPARC or from study and watch, in awe, as he works it seamlessly into his next class.  I’ve yet to work out how he functions in life and still finds the time to put so much thought into the Dojo and it’s members!

It’s wonderful to see his efforts reflected in the testimonials below… and that was when he was part time!  Now he’s giving the club his FULL attention… well it can only be good!” - Jill Gower

Mt Vic Dojo has provided my teenager with valuable opportunities to challenge himself both physically and emotionally. And even when he’s not feeling up to a challenge, the Dojo provides a solid sense of community for him. Thank you, Mt Vic Dojo!” – Teresia Teaiwa (Parent)

“My son was not terribly co-ordinated before starting karate and was not keen to try new things. In the year since he began his co-ordination has improved immensely and he always tries all the activities in his class. He goes home and practices without any reminders!” – Tali Boardman (Parent)

“What do you like best about Mt Vic Dojo? I like the fact that is central, and Chris is a wonderful teacher, particularly with the young ones. He knows how to approach each and one of them taking into consideration, their personalities and level of skills.” – Karina Lagreze (Parent)

“What do you like best about Mt Vic Dojo? The support of all members – be they highly graded or newbies. I like that learning comes not only from the instructor but the group as a whole making the experience both karate and community based.” – Jim Stanton (Yellow Belt)

“Having joined Mt Vic dojo nearly 10 years ago I feel like part of the family there. There is always a new opportunity to challenge and better yourself there – no matter your available time or ambitions. The people and friendships second to none!” – Pamela Booth (Brown Belt and Parent of Peewees)

“What do you like best about Mt Vic Dojo? Chris and Jill! Friendly and welcoming with a focus on what is best for the students.  Chris is a great teacher who relates well to students of all ages (and their parents).

[Chris] has a strong set of values that teach the Kyokushin way.” – Deanne Daysh (Parent)

“What do you like best about Mt Vic Dojo? We like the way that the classes are taught with passion, humour and discipline. The kids are also motivated by the many ways that they can achieve ie the belts, medals and certificates…. [I] cant say enough about Chris’s teaching. We think the dojo and his teaching is fantastic.”
La Cavanagh (Parent)

“You would be hard picked to find a better karate studio within New Zealand, let alone Wellington, that provides such a high calibre of instructors and facilities. A purpose-built room with mats, a dedicated weights room, pads and other protective gear, and a good mix of differently skilled students and instructors makes the dojo an obvious choice for martial arts and fitness buffs alike.” – Richard Parry (Brown Belt)

“I’ve been to my fair share of Dojos and I can honestly say that MVD is the best I have come by to date. Not only does it have amazing well stocked and maintained facilties, but the atmosphere is welcoming, fun, and has become a second family to me. Also being female and small I’ve been reluctant in the past to fight properly, but again MVD has changed that. It’s a safe environment to learn in and build you up at your own pace, and provide encouragement and strength when you really need it. From a girl who once “hated” fighting, I now can’t wait till my next one!”  – Anna Washer (Green Belt)

“Mt Vic Dojo has a friendly vibe and the martial arts is world class. The gym is great too!” – Tim Walker (Casual member)

“A friendly club some good hard training and fitness sessions.” – Brendon Tohill (Blue Belt)

“I enjoy the interaction of the people who train there, the knowledge of the instructors and the very friendly and relaxed environment that this creates.” – Mark Richards (Green Belt)

“Osu! Mt Vic dojo is simply amazing. It’s simply because it has an awesome facility and experienced instructors. They are also very friendly and fun! I particularly enjoy training there because training with top nz fighters is such an experience. They also hold fight events twice a year, and it’s very cool to be a part of a team who are very organized.” – Anonymous (Green Belt)

“What do you like best about Mt Vic Dojo? Where to start? Firstly, it’s the most well equipped Dojo I’ve ever been to, offering a multitude of classes so that I can train daily (or more!) if I want. The atmosphere is incredibly encouraging and committed, and you really feel like part of the family, regardless of your level of skill and fitness. If you want to just get a bit fitter and stronger you can, or if you really want to push yourself to the limit there are people there to help you do that. There are no limits to what you can achieve at MVD. It’s got to the point now that I count the people at MVD as close friends, not just people I train with. The physical and mental challenges I’ve had in my training have served me well not just in karate, but every aspect of my life. I recommend everyone I meet to try it, and as women not to be scared of the contact  fighting. It’s a big part of training but I feel totally safe doing it (I used to be completely against fighting!)” – Anna Washer (Green Belt AND 6th year med student!)

“What do you like best about Mt Vic Dojo? The collaborative attitude of instructors and students alike – whilst there’s the obvious competitive side of tournament, people are nonetheless very giving of their time and knowledge to promote other people’s skills and training.” – Richard Parry (Brown Belt)

“Oh, and for what you get it’s cheaper than a gym membership. And you actually get in better shape faster so best deal ever!” – Anna Washer… again :o )