Otautahi Aikido is a renowned Aikido school located in Christchurch, New Zealand. Aikido, translated as “the Way of harmonious spirit,” is a Japanese martial art that emphasises the blending of motion with the attacker and redirecting their force rather than resisting it. This approach requires minimal physical strength as practitioners lead the attacker's momentum through entering and turning movements, culminating in throws or joint locks.
The style practised at Otautahi Aikido is called Buikukai, a dynamic and effective Aikikai style. It originates from Osaka and takes its direction from Hirokazu Kobayashi Shihan, a student of the founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba. Junichi Nishimura Shihan, a 7th Dan Aikido practitioner based in Auckland, is the head instructor for Otautahi Aikido in New Zealand.
Otautahi Aikido Group was established in April 1991, led by Liam O'Donoghue Sensei. Initially, the group trained at the old Crichton Cobbers Youth Club in Fitzgerald Ave. The principles that guided the establishment of the group included technical alignment to the Osaka Buikukai style, a democratic approach to club administration, and a commitment to respectful and safe training. In September 2020, the group relocated to its current location, a dedicated dojo in the charming St Mary's Church Hall in Heathcote.
The founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba O-Sensei, was born in Tanabe, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, in 1883. In the earlier years of his teaching, Ueshiba focused on the aiki-jjutsu system he had learned from Takeda Sokaku. However, as Ueshiba's art evolved, it became softer and more circular, with an emphasis on breath throws and utilising the opponent's movement to execute techniques. Ueshiba's teachings underwent various name changes throughout the years, evolving from aiki-jjutsu to Ueshiba-ry, Asahi-ry, aiki bud, and finally, aikido.
In 1927, Ueshiba established his first dojo in Tokyo, known today as the Aikikai Hombu Dojo.
At Otautahi Aikido, students have the opportunity to learn and practise Aikido in a supportive and respectful environment. With dedicated instructors and a strong commitment to the principles of Aikido, Otautahi Aikido is a vibrant and welcoming community for both beginners and experienced practitioners. Whether one seeks self-defence skills or a way to cultivate harmony of spirit, Otautahi Aikido is a place where individuals can embark on an enriching journey through the Way of Aikido.