Bryan Williams, the organiser of Taupaki Goju Ryu Karate in Taupaki, Auckland, wants the sports community to know about their karate school. Specialising in traditional Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate, they're proud members of Jundokan New Zealand, an official branch of Jundokan Japan.
Bryan’s mission is to promote and support the practice of Goju Ryu Karate in New Zealand. The school offers a safe and welcoming space for both adults and children to train. They aim to keep training as affordable as possible to make karate accessible to everyone, reinvesting any profits back into the students' benefit.
Classes cater to juniors (ages 7-13) from 6 pm to 7 pm, and seniors (ages 13 and above) from 7 pm to 8:30 pm every Tuesday and Thursday at Taupaki Hall on Taupaki Road, opposite Harry James Reserve.
The focus at Taupaki Goju Ryu is on training both the mind and body. Students learn self-defence, build strength, and improve coordination, endurance, and flexibility. A key part of their training is kata, detailed choreographed patterns practiced solo or in pairs. While kata is emphasised over sports competition, opportunities to compete are available for those interested.
Joining Taupaki Goju Ryu Karate means becoming part of a larger organisation, Jundokan New Zealand, which grants direct access to some of the highest-ranked karate masters worldwide. The school prides itself on its family-friendly atmosphere, welcoming new members at any time of the year. They offer a two-week free trial for anyone wanting to try out their classes.
Led by senior instructor Bryan Williams-sensei, a 5th Dan black belt, and David Martin-sensei, a 3rd Dan black belt, the school operates on a not-for-profit basis. Training fees are kept low to encourage ongoing participation. For 2021, fees are: juniors (7 – approx 13 years) – $300 per year or $75 per term, students (Year 9+ & Tertiary Students) – $340 per year or $85 per term, and adults over 18 – $400 per year or $100 per term.
For those interested in joining or learning more, contact them at 09-412 9768 or email julia@bwainsolvency.co.nz. You can also find more details on their website, including term dates and other useful information.