Dharma Way Dojo / Self Defence Solutions
Information about Dharma Way Dojo / Self Defence Solutions
Opening hours
- Monday: 09:00–19:00
- Tuesday: 09:00–19:00
- Wednesday: 09:00–19:00
- Thursday: 09:00–19:00
- Friday: 09:00–19:00
- Saturday: 11:00–17:00
- Sunday: Closed
Dharma Way Dojo and Self Defence Solutions offers a unique blend of traditional Okinawan and Chinese martial arts alongside practical self-defense training in Christchurch. Led by Kyoshi Steven Allen, a former police and corrections officer with over 40 years of experience, the dojo provides private and small-group classes designed to fit your schedule. Whether your goal is health, self-defense, or spiritual growth, Steve tailors programs to help you integrate mind, body, and spirit.
Our core curriculum includes Shorin Ryu Matsumura Karate, the oldest known lineage of Okinawan karate, focusing on practical applications (bunkai) and traditional forms. We also teach the three major internal Chinese martial arts: Tai Chi Chuan (Yang style), Bagua Zhang (for flexibility and spinal health), and Hsing I Chuan (powerful, linear striking). Additionally, we offer Qi Gong practice to enhance energy and overall well-being, instructed by a practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
What sets us apart is our approach to real-world self-defense. Unlike sports-based martial arts, our training is grounded in the realities of violent encounters, drawing on Steve’s extensive background in law enforcement and physical confrontation. We teach principles of force dissipation and automatic, subconscious responses to ensure safety in unpredictable situations. Our self-defense program offers an approved five-level certification, from beginner to Master Instructor, recognized by the All Okinawan Ozark Mountain Karate Association.
We believe in quality over quantity, with highly personalized instruction that allows you to progress at your own pace. No prior experience is needed—just a desire to learn the 'true way' of martial arts. Contact us today to schedule your two free trial lessons and discover how we can help you achieve your personal goals.
Services, Machines and Guided Classes
Dharma Way Dojo / Self Defence Solutions: Reviews
Reviews are the opinions of their authors. We do not verify that the author was a customer.
Fantastic experience: I have been attending Steve's classes for about 7 months now and I have seen my body has improved a lot. My neck that has been sore for 4 years is gone now. My shoulders and back also feel less tight thanks to all the exercises that Steve shown me. He is also a very good teacher that will push his students so that they can do the best they can and improve. I didn't know how my body was so disconnected until I met Steve. He is very experienced in martial arts and with very small classes, he could really pay attention to each student. He is teaching me not only martial arts but also to have discipline and to keep challenging myself and keep improving. Thank you Steve, you are the best teacher that I have ever seen. Thank you for being so patient teaching me.
Fantastic experience: This is an excellent place to learn martial arts . You are not just one in a big class. Classes are flexible in timing and suited to you as an individual. The teacher has depth of insight into the martial arts that few others can claim. I am a long time student of Kyoshi Allen and can say my life has been enriched by his teachings.Come join our dojo.
Thank you Chrissy. We love having you here. Congratulations on your recent promotion to Shodan.
Fantastic experience: Steve is the most knowledgeable man of martial arts that you would find here in NZ he has helped me so much to gain confidence and body awareness. I highly recommend him if you are looking for useable self defence.
Thank you Lauren. You're a great student, am very proud of you.
Fantastic experience: Steve Allen is great to train with. He has tailored a program where I can attend classes during the week days or weekend. He is totally dedicated to his students. I have been a student for 2 years, during which time I have learned different techniques to defend myself and build confidence in other aspects of my life. As a business owner I find the practice of Chinese Martial arts is an experience that helps reduce stress and helps rejuvenate your health and joint mobility as you get older. I would highly recommend Steve Allen's Martial Arts program and Chinese healing therapy, to anyone wanting to improve there life in general.
Thank you Les, we are one big family here, and teaching you is a pure joy and my honor.
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