Shizoku Martial Arts - Karate & Self Defence

Fantastic experience: Since our daughter has attended sma she has gained not only confidence but has flourished with routine and discipline. Everyone is always so welcoming and it's a real whanau vibe. Highly recommend for people of any age

Fantastic experience: Khloe loves karate, and it's all thanks to Chris and his incredible team and family at SMA Karate They are absolutely amazing! The instructors are firm but fun, which ensures that the kids learn discipline and respect, but they also know how to make the classes fun and engaging. Their approach to teaching is exceptional, and they have a wonderful way of connecting with the kids, helping them to grow both in skill and confidence. We couldn't be happier with Khloe's progress and the supportive community we've found here. Highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: An amazing experience my son has learned a lot in the last few weeks. His behaviour has got better and teaching great discipline. They have great leaders there who are very respectful to everyone.

Fantastic experience: I have been attending for over 3 years and I’m still learning new skills and techniques. The club has a great atmosphere and is supportive of everyone and their development.

Fantastic experience: Just a great place and great people

Negative experience: Weak communication, let's bullies away with bad behavior, no welcoming to new members absolutely terrible for younger kids.

Fantastic experience: Very good team here! Highly recommend. My son and daughter thoroughly enjoy learning with the coaches there and look forward to it every week.

Fantastic experience: Every woman should do this course. You will leave with confidence, skills and strategies to use to stay safe should the unthinkable happen.The instructors are outstanding. You will be supported and respected. The serious matter of violence against women is so confronting yet they present the course in a way that empowers rather than terrifyies you It is a safe place to learn important life skills.

Fantastic experience: Cannot fault SMA karate. My 7 year old has grown in confidence and determination, she had found a new passion through coming here, from a child that wouldn't much leave my side, she loves coming to karate, her confidence has absolutely sky rocketed. Friendly and accommodating, great for discipline, sorts miss 7s attitude out really quick. She has a definite respect for her sensei. Thank you

Fantastic experience: Sensei Chris is so patient with my 5 year old's understandable inability to focus for the duration of his class. His firm but kind redirection has yielded results already and I'm happy to say that my grandson can't wait for his karate classes each week. Thank you sensei.

Fantastic experience: Joining SMA was the best decision we have made for my sons confidence, fitness and discipline. They have fantastic role models and offer an all round positive, encouraging, professional environment. Also the youth leader program is great opportunity for kids to help other members of the club. If your thinking about karate for your son or daughter I would highly recommend SMA.

Fantastic experience: Really recommend Shizoku. My primary age daughters' behaviour and attitude has improved significantly and noticeably since joining. The coaches, and Sensei are really present and supportive and aside from the physical side of learning self defence and martial arts, the control and character/self esteem developments are really amazing.

Fantastic experience: I have noticed an extra level of confidence and maturity in my son lately as a result of what he is learning. He is also loving practicing and mentoring others which helps cement his own learning and gives him opportunities to grow leadership skills and give back to others. Thank you to all the sensei and student instructors for all the guidance and work you all put in at the dojo.

Fantastic experience: Absolutely no words to describe how awesome the classes are. My son loves going to the karate classes and look forward to each class. It has made him focussed and more disciplined. I would recommend it to anyone with confidence. Jesney

Fantastic experience: Pretty stoked at how well our 8yo boy has taken to SMA and how committed he is to putting in effort and developing. Very different dojo environment from what I went through at a young age - our son is doing well within a friendly and welcoming environment, that is pushing these kids gently to keep getting better.

Fantastic experience: My Great grandson joined the beginners group about a month back now. Due to a very rough start in life he was very reserved and found it very difficult to communicate or talk with strangers but is now joining in and getting more confident every week .This is due to the welcome and the patience of the instructors .Thank you.

Fantastic experience: My 8 and 5 year old absolutely love karate with Chris and Co. They enjoy the physical aspect and the conversations about respect, responsibility etc. Have recommended it to lots of our friends

Fantastic experience: Sensei Chris and the rest of the SMA team do a great job creating a professional and focused environment, while keeping the kids engaged and having heaps of fun. I love seeing my girls learning new techniques and improving their confidence at every class.

Fantastic experience: My son just started classes in North Canterbury and already I have seen quite the difference in his overall attitude. He focuses and really enjoys learning skills. His fitness level has increased and he is learning quality aspects of teamwork. The instructors are very patient and they make it fun. My son has a smile on his face the whole time. Thank you so much!

Fantastic experience: Such a wonderful place/experience for the kids to learn. Sense Chris exuding the patience and focus that he instills int he pupils. Love it

Fantastic experience: Great club, very professional website with videos to assist practicing & strong focus on self defense & self discipline.

Fantastic experience: Friendly, respectful and high quality classes. I can promote 100%.

Fantastic experience: Fantastic Sensei! Teaches resilience, empowers children to reach life goals. Sensei Chris teaches so much more than just a martial art. Highly recommend.

Negative experience: Just a note for newbies that you are stuck in this system for 4 to 5 years and you can't continue with your rank in another Karate club unless the new club is willingly to transfer your rank over which is quite unlikely. *UPDATE* - You are right, I have never trained there but my nephew does (different surname) and they have been looking around but no other club carries rank over for Karate, which is why i advised it is better to do BJJ, Kick Boxing or TaeKwonDo (WT, ITF) which you means you go to any other club that teaches that style (locally or internationally) and your rank is maintained whether you are yellow belt or black belt you don't need to start again.

Fantastic experience: Amazing karate school, very professional with great online support also, great classes that keep the little one focus all the time , we are very happy we chose this school for our son and amaze by his progress.

Fantastic experience: Karate has been amazing for my daughter and Sensei Chris has such an amazing way with dealing with all of the children. My daughter loves coming twice a week

Fantastic experience: Great martial arts school! Chris works well with all ages and has a vast knowledge of the martial arts industry. I would highly recommend his school.

Fantastic experience: My daughter and I both go, and have done for several years. The staff are fantastic with kids and adults alike. It feels like a big family.

Fantastic experience: Chris and his team provides quality training to the candidates. It's definitely helping my wee one to focus more and to build up strong determination . Thanks Chris.

Fantastic experience: Have been impressed by the welcome and kindness as a very new participant. Wonderful community is fostered as well as dedication and support from everyone.

Fantastic experience: Very patient and understanding, tough but fair . My daughter has learnt a lot and her confidence has grown. Highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: Awesome atmosphere. Sensei Chris sets the kids up to be challenged and have fun. They love going to karate and learn excellent self defense and life skills along the way. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: This is more than just turning up to a Karate class and leaving. The kids and parents know there is an endless amount of support with the on-line tutorials, the excellent Goals programme and the encouraging rewards system whereby they can earn badges for going the extra mile. Their Motto says it all. You can see the children respect Sensei and Sensei respects them. We LOVE it!

Fantastic experience: Thank you sensei Chris and his team for these amazing classes! Not only they teach self defence, but also good communication, kindness, good manners and important life values. My son absolutely loves his classes and I can't speak highly enough of them. Thank you.

Fantastic experience: A fantastic club with a focus on developing correct techniques traditional values and life skills. Chris is a very experienced and knowledgeable instructor who is great with the kids. I would highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: A fantastic family friendly club! Sensei Chris not only teaches my son karate in a fun & exciting way but helps to instil positive life values he can use everyday at school & at home. My son was having so much fun going that I decided to join the adults classes too & I love it! It not only helps to keep me fit but teaches me great self defence techniques & helps me to feel strong & confident. The camaraderie with other students is awesome too!

Fantastic experience: My son has been attending since March 2021 and I can honestly say it's been the best thing for him. He thoroughly enjoys every minute and can't wait for the next session. Sensei Chris and the team are wonderful teachers and I would recommend them to anyone thinking of joining.

Fantastic experience: My children have been attending SMA Karate for the past 2 years. We have been so impressed with how things are run, and the confidence, focus, discipline and skills that my children have developed since being there. Sensei Chris is a fantastic role model for the children and I love that he instills confidence and life skills as part of their karate journey. I highly recommend SMA karate for anyone looking to get their kids into martial arts.

Fantastic experience: Highly recommend the Shizoku Martial Arts club. Sensei Chris has a great way with kids and my son has found something he loves doing. He has thrived since starting karate. They offer a free trial class which is great for kids that are unsure on taking that first step. We love the life skills goals which kids can apply to all aspects of their life even outside of karate.

Fantastic experience: Whether you’re looking for fun while working out, burn energy and receive proper training for yourself and for your children… then this place is for you. Your kids aim for the best, receive rewards for behaviour in and out of class, work hard for your next colour belt as a goal. For adults, you learn what the kids learn but a bit more intense than they would receive it. You get the Jack of all trades in these classes. There’s more than you bargain for and for a reasonable and affordable price. Not a single regret joining this club. Come and join or try the free trial class first and see how you go.

Fantastic experience: This has been the most incredible experience my youngest son. Sensei Chris is extremely encouraging and determined to get the best out of the children that attend. It’s fun, disciplined and encouraging all at the same time. Will has thrived this past month. Thank you and your team.

Fantastic experience: Found this was a family friendly place to take your children to learn knew skills, build confidence, and get fit, make friends,and learning ways to defend themselves, The Teacher is understanding of all the children and there needs and still pushes them to be there best. I'm so happy we joined our son, he was so shy couldn't talk to anyone but in a short time he talks to all the children and can't wait for Wednesday to learn you skills and enjoy being push to his limits he walks out of every class excited for next class. I highly recommend anyone to join all ages.

Fantastic experience: My son has been doing karate at SMA for a couple of months now and absolutely loves it! He had never shown much interest in sports previously. It's been the best thing we've done for him. In a short time we've already noticed an increase in his confidence and he has learned so much. Sensei Chris is fantastic with children and the classes are fun. They have excellent communication and resources on their website for training etc. Also love how they teach the children valuable life lessons and self defense. Highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: So much more than just another martial arts club. Life skills, personal accountability and community spirit run through the core of this program. Chris is a great leader doing great things.

Fantastic experience: Excellent Martial Arts Club. Great Tutor/Mentoring and professionally run. Would definitely recommend to Children/Parents and Residents in the Eastern Suburbs area.

Fantastic experience: Excellent Teacher! Well organized, knowledgeable and kind! Very reasonabke rates. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: Great place to train!