What is Kyokushin Karate?

Kyokushin Karate is known as ‘The Strongest Karate’. It is a full-contact, bare-knuckle karate style famous for hard training characterised by power, endurance and knock-out kicks. At Poneke Dojo we train some of the best fighters in the country but we cater just as well to members who just want a fun and challenging way to get fit. We offer a variety of targeted classes to suit kids and adults.

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Poneke Kyokushin Dojo

My name is Chris Gower and I’m proud to be one of two people authorised to operate a branch of the International Karate Organisation Kyokushinkaikan (IKO) in New Zealand.

Being an IKO Branch Chief is a commitment to one of the world’s most forward-thinking karate organisations and an obligation to uphold an exacting international standard.  In my forty plus years training in Kyokushin karate I have traveled to Japan regularly to learn and compete.   I remain committed to a path of continual learning and still travel regularly for my own training, to officiate and to introduce new generations to international competition.

You’re invited

I am very pleased to invite you to join the IKO by becoming a member of the Poneke Dojo (Club) in Mt Cook, Wellington.  My wife Jill and I opened the club (as Mt Vic Dojo) in 1999.   Since then Poneke Dojo has become one of New Zealand’s most successful clubs with many generations of black belts and a consistently strong team of national and international competitors.  Training and grading at Poneke Dojo means you will be welcomed at similar dojo in just about any country and your grades will be recognised.

Our wonderful full-time facility in Mt Cook offers some of the most experienced and capable instructors in the country.  We value equally our connection to Japan and traditional karate, the absolute latest in sport science / coaching, and Wellington’s uber-cool, inclusive culture.  A friendly, relaxed atmosphere permeates the whole club.

There is no substitute for experience so we welcome you to come along and see for yourself.  We offer two weeks training absolutely free so you can check out a variety of classes.  Click the link below to register with no obligation to join.

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“I’ve been to my fair share of Dojos and I can honestly say that [Poneke Dojo] is the best I have come by to date. Not only does it have amazing well stocked and maintained facilities, but the atmosphere is welcoming, fun, and has become a second family to me.”

Dr Anna Washer

Got Kids?

Our kids karate classes are age-specific so we can target little ones with developmental exercises, building foundation skills, physical and social confidence.  Separating kids and adults allows us to cater to distinct developmental stages meaning the kids are achieving at level and enjoying their training experience.

As much as possible we recruit our young black belts and experienced high grades to teach the younger children.   These young leaders are amazing role models and teach the children so much more than how to throw a kick.  The kids love them and understand straight away that the pathway to black belt and leadership is within reach.  Our retention rate is fantastic!

“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 & school teacher)

There really is no substitute for experience so do come along and see for yourself.  We offer two weeks training absolutely free so you can check out a variety of classes.  Click the link below to register with no obligation to join.

We all look forward to meeting you soon.

Chris Gower
5th Dan, Dojo Head

Get in touch or Register Two Weeks Free Training!