The Wellington School of Tai Chi Silverstream, located in Upper Wellington, New Zealand, is a renowned gym that specialises in martial and health arts. With a focus on Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and self-defence classes, the gym offers a variety of classes and forms, including hand forms, sword, walking stick, short staff, fan forms, and sabre.
The gym prides itself on its comprehensive Tai Chi programme, which consists of nine different levels, accommodating individuals of all skill levels. Classes are held at two locations Petone, which offers classes every day except public holidays, and Silverstream, which offers classes on Tuesday evenings.
The class timetable provides a detailed schedule, with each class level and the specific forms covered. Beginners are welcome, and the first class is free of charge, though it is advised to arrange a time with the gym for the first lesson.
At Petone, classes take place at Halford Place, situated at the far eastern end of Jackson Street. The classes cover various forms depending on the level, including the 24 Hand form, 18 Qi Gong, 32 Sword, 42 Sword, 18 Cane forms, and 13 Sabre Sun Style.
Silverstream hosts classes at Pinehaven Silverpine Scouts Hall, located in Pinehaven Reserve off Pinehaven Road. Classes here cater to different levels, from beginners to level 3 students, and are instructed by Leona.
In addition to Tai Chi classes, the gym also offers meditation classes, although there are currently no active sessions. The gym provides a friendly and welcoming environment for individuals interested in Tai Chi and its associated benefits for physical and mental well-being.
The Wellington School of Tai Chi Silverstream was founded by Hennie Barnard on August 1, 2001, after receiving continuous requests from his students to take their Tai Chi practise to a higher level. Initially teaching Tai Chi at multiple colleges through community and adult education programmes in Wellington, Hennie and Hettie, his wife, found a permanent location for the school in the central business area of Hutt City.
Since its establishment, the school has expanded its offerings and accommodated different levels and interests. The school's members have contributed significantly to creating a welcoming and well-maintained atmosphere, repainting and redecorating the premises.
The school's lineage can be traced back to Monk Jiang Nan from Shaolin Temple and Sifu Lai. With its emphasis on Yang Style, the Wellington School of Tai Chi Silverstream aims to provide a holistic approach to Tai Chi training, focusing on physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.