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Welcome to JKS Shotokan Karate - North Shore

Based in Browns Bay, Hibiscus Coast (Orewa) and Takapuna on the North Shore of Auckland City, we are your local, family oriented and outcome focused Karate Club. We are passionate about teaching Karate to both children and adults, and at the same time, building their self esteem, strength and discipline. With a new motto: “Lifelong Karate-do”, the JKS organisation promotes and expands the art of empty hand among different age and social groups, aiming to improve society as a whole

learn-karate

There is so much that Karate can offer you and your family

Fun and fitness

Builds confidence

Great for discipline and self-control

For the whole family

A great way to make new friends

All ages and abilities

All round exercise

Self defence

Tournaments if you want to compete

Get Two Classes FREE when you sign up!

Get in fast for this great opportunity to really try karate.

Is your child aged 5 - 8 years old ?

Why not sign them up for Little Tigers Karate

Great for their focus and confidence.

Little tigers

What an incredible couple of days at the
JKS 6th International Cup 2024 in Japan!

The event kicked off with training alongside over 500 people guided by Shihan Kagawa, followed by 7 individuals testing for their Dan level belts and 6 people taking their qualification test. Results TBA

The tournament showcased remarkable kata performances by the students and some awe-inspiring displays of courage in the fights. On the second day, three teams representing JKS New Zealand competed in team kumite, yielding spectacular results and leading to the following medal tally:

Sensei Trevor FosterSilver Medals for Kata
Sensei Sean JosephSilver Medal for Kumite
Sensei Philip WillsonSilver Medal for Kumite
Sean LindBronze Medal for Koten Kata
Sensei Trevor FosterBronze Medal for Kumite
Sean Lind, Diego Mendes and Rashane Dewundara LiyanageBronze Medal for Team Kumite
Keenan Brown Marcel Fourie and Jake MillerBronze Medal for Team Kumite
Ellie PillarSpecial Participation Award

In total, JKS New Zealand secured 3 silver and 4 bronze medals.

A huge congratulations to all the athletes who competed, demonstrating unwavering determination, perseverance, and unrelenting effort. Those who did not win medals showed commendable spirit and left everything on the mat.

Why JKS Shotokan Karate - North Shore

Mission Statement

The aims and objectives of JKS North Shore Karate club is to foster, administer and advance the art of traditional Shotokan Karate here in New Zealand.

Our goal is to teach, motivate, educate and guide our students and instructors while promoting exemplary ethics in Karate-Do.

We promise to do this through regular training of the highest order, course and grading events, special courses, and of course, competitions for both juniors and seniors alike.

Our classes are tailored for both young children, through to adult karate-ka at all levels.

Other Key Benefits

  • Build self esteem and self-control
  • Be healthier in body, mind and spirit
  • Be more confident
  • Learn effective techniques
  • Learn discipline
  • Learn how to avoid getting involved in physical confrontations
  • Be less likely to abuse alcohol, smoke, or take drugs
  • Be more respectful towards yourself and others
  • Be regarded as a role model
  • Keep in shape while having fun

Black Belt Gradings for JKS Shotokan Karate - Auckland

Sensei Shohei Toyama's visit 2024

The JKS Auckland students experienced a truly inspirational week of karate, immersed in a masterclass that brought Kumite and Kata to life under the expert guidance of Sensei Shohei Toyama, a distinguished JKS Honbu Instructor. His visit offered invaluable lessons, instilling passion and drive in every student, from the youngest Little Tigers (ages 5-8) to seasoned practitioners over 60 years old.

The week kicked off on Tuesday at our Orewa Dojo, where 60 dedicated students gathered for an exhilarating two-hour session. Sensei Toyama began with the basics, refining Kihon for the Little Tigers and ensuring even the most advanced practitioners revisited these essential skills. The first hour flowed seamlessly into practice of several Heian Kata, setting a strong foundation. The second hour took it up a notch with JKS Kata like Junro Yondan and the intricate Koten Kata Kakyoko Nidan. The class concluded with Kumite drills, designed to enhance speed and precision—laying the groundwork for the days ahead.

Wednesday brought Sensei Toyama to Browns Bay, where over 40 eager karateka awaited. The first hour saw beginners diving deep into the fundamentals and refining their Heian Kata, while the second hour ramped up the intensity with advanced Jion Kata and dynamic Kumite practice. Sensei Toyama's lightning-fast techniques and flawless execution pushed everyone to rise to the occasion, truly inspiring.

The third day’s session at the JKS Herald Island Dojo focused on Heian Nidan and Junro Yondan, with Kihon integrated throughout the first hour. The second hour showcased advanced Kata like Jitte and Bassai Dai, with the movements of Sensei Toyama captivating all who watched.

Friday night in Takapuna saw another masterclass, emphasizing relaxed punching in Kihon. The first hour wrapped up with more Heian Kata practice, followed by the elegance of Kankusho and a powerful Kumite session in the second hour.

Saturday began with a class for beginners, where Sensei Toyama connected effortlessly with each student, guiding them through Kihon and introductory Kata. Kumite followed, with a progression from Kihon Ippon Kumite to basic Jiyu Kumite, fostering confidence and growth.

The senior class took place after lunch, where higher-level Kata like Gojushiho Dai and Sochin were practiced with precision. Special attention was given to Senso, a challenging JKS Koten Kata. The day culminated in an explosive Kumite session where Sensei Toyama shared strategies for smaller fighters to take on larger opponents, showcasing his signature speed and power. The week concluded with a proud moment, as Shodan and Nidan certificates were presented to students who passed their grades at the World Championships in July.

Sensei Toyama, it has been an absolute pleasure and an honour. Your energy and dedication have left a lasting impact on us all.

Oss!

Shop for your Karate essentials right here!

Sample of available items below

All our new Gi's supplied through the JKS Shop will now come with the JKS Badge embroidered on.

New service for club members - our own Sports Chaplain

Claus Fuchs, one of our Shodan karate-ka has qualified as a sports chaplain.

He is able to provide pastoral care, support, mentoring and guidance for any club member who may be struggling with personal issues, or the pressures of karate training, grading etc.

All discussions are strictly confidential and is there for your assistance.

claus-fuchs

Class Times

We have classes on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, plus train on Saturday mornings.

Fees

We like to encourage families to train together and therefor have great family package deals available.

Locations

We have dojos in Browns Bay and Takapuna on Auckland's North Shore, and in Orewa on the Hibiscus Coast.

Testimonials

Mark Costello

Student

I train with another small club but come to this one on Saturday morning for great intense 2 hour session for seniors.

Tracy Lawrence

Student and parent

I joined initially to get fit but have found that my co-ordination and memory have improved as well. I have found a community of people who make the days more enjoyable.

Aaron Marsh

Student

I came to investigate what the club was like and havent left since! Sean is an incredibly talented, knowledgeable and caring sensei (teacher). If you're interested in martial arts and self defense in a nurturing environment that you can trust and become a part of a family of like-minded students then this is the place. And its fun for the whole family!

Anton Van den Bergh

Sensei

Sensei Sean has been a great support to me (Anton van den Bergh ~ Timaru) on my journey into the JKS family. A comment from spectator at last tournament; "I wished we had a Sensei like him" - pointing to Sensei Sean when asked who she was talking about.... she thought his omnipresence and encouragement of his students all day long, was a great example of being a true Sensei!!
Well done Sensei Sean! I will try to live up to your standards!!

Mokko 711

Parent

My son has attended this club for 8 months and loves going to the class. He seems to learn many technics for self self-defense. Also, I can see he respects others more than before.
This club encourages practice for the students and plans many events to keep students fun

Nicholas Denton-Giles

Student and parent

My son and I have been going to jks north shore for a year and a half now, I’ve found sensei Sean to be very passionate about karate and an excellent teacher. He has a high level of expectation from his students and wants them to be the best they can be. The little tigers class is also excellent, sensei James is very good with the kids. Great atmosphere and people!

Tish Tate

Mother

Awesome club! The Sense's are totally dedicated to the students, my son started as a "Little Tiger" 3 years ago, his grown so much, his become very disciplined & focused, not only in his Karate but also at school. His a lot more active & really looks forward to seeing the team at training. It's a great sport, though the students train hard, they earn the belt, they dont get rewarded for participation. GIVE IT A GO!!!

James lawrence

Student / Sensei

I met Sean though business, and found out he ran a dojo. I thought I would try the club, and haven't regretted the decision. My goal is primarily to get fit and enjoy the martial arts again. Sensei Sean and the JKS Karate club has challenged me, and allowed me to get back into karate after a very long break. The training sessions are fun, and informative. This is a really great club.

Jason patterson

Student and parent

I've been part of this club since last June. The teachers really know their stuff and the students are just awesome to train with. If u want to learn karate best place hands down.

GMC Coaching

Student

So I started Karate at the age of 49 during one of our lockdowns, all my classes were online for the first month, I've had multiple injuries and have terrible flexibility due to years of other sports and accidents.
I've found the Sensei's to be super supportive and happy to work with my idiosyncrasy's, I improved so much in my first 2 months that I graded to White Belt yellow tip, I've enjoyed it so much I've convinced my neighbor to come along next term, in my opinion JKS is more than just a Karate Club, it's a community!