Kyokushin Karate, also known as 'The Strongest Karate', is offered at the Poneke Dojo in Wellington, NZ. This traditional Japanese martial art style is renowned for its full-contact, bare-knuckle training methods, which focus on power, endurance, and knock-out kicks. The dojo is committed to providing high-quality training for both kids and adults, catering to individuals who are interested in competitive fighting as well as those seeking a fun and challenging fitness activity.
The Poneke Dojo, operated by Chris Gower, is authorised by the International Karate Organisation Kyokushinkaikan (IKO) and upholds the organisation's strict standards. With over four decades of training in Kyokushin karate, Chris Gower has regularly travelled to Japan to further his knowledge and compete. He remains dedicated to continual learning and travels frequently to train, officiate, and introduce new generations to international competitions.
The Poneke Dojo, formerly known as Mt Vic Dojo, was established in 1999 by Chris Gower and his wife Jill. Over the years, it has become one of New Zealand's most successful karate clubs, producing numerous generations of black belts and a consistently strong team of national and international competitors. Training and grading at the Poneke Dojo ensures recognition at similar dojos worldwide.
The dojo boasts a full-time facility in Mt Cook, Wellington, with experienced and capable instructors. The club values its connexion to Japan and traditional karate, while also incorporating the latest advancements in sport science and coaching. Additionally, it embraces Wellington's inclusive and vibrant culture, creating a friendly and relaxed atmosphere throughout the club.
For those interested in joining, the Poneke Dojo offers two weeks of free training with no obligation to join. This introductory period allows individuals to experience a variety of classes and assess if Kyokushin Karate is the right fit for them. Testimonials from satisfied members highlight the inclusive and welcoming environment, as well as the focus on individual student needs and growth.
The Poneke Dojo also offers age-specific karate classes for children, ensuring they receive targeted developmental exercises and build foundational skills, physical abilities, and social confidence. By separating kids and adults, the dojo can tailor the training experience to meet the distinct developmental stages of each group. Young black belts and experienced high-grade students are recruited as instructors for the younger children, providing excellent role models and teaching valuable life skills alongside martial arts techniques. This approach has resulted in a fantastic retention rate for young members.
Overall, the Poneke Dojo is a world-class karate school that offers a strong foundation in Kyokushin Karate, catering to both competitive fighters and those seeking a fun and challenging fitness activity. With its commitment to traditional values, international recognition, experienced instructors, and inclusive atmosphere, it is an exceptional choice for individuals in Wellington, New Zealand who are interested in embarking on a martial arts journey.
