Auckland School of European Martial Arts

Welcome to the Auckland School of European Martial Arts (A.S.E.M.A), a unique institution that delves into the rich heritage of European martial arts. Our school is part of the broader New Zealand School of European Martial Arts (N.Z.S.E.M.A.), focusing on the study and practice of historical and cultural martial traditions that span the ages throughout Europe.

At A.S.E.M.A, we specialize in Historical European Martial Arts (H.E.M.A), a fascinating discipline that blends rigorous academic study with hands-on, experimental archaeology. This approach allows us to reconstruct historically accurate and functionally effective martial techniques, ranging from the elegant swordfighting styles of the medieval knights to the effective self-defense systems utilized in the 19th century.

Our classes cater to anyone looking to reconnect with their heritage or simply to explore a different form of martial arts outside the mainstream practices showcased in popular media. With a focus on the Liechtenauer tradition of swordsmanship, we prioritize practical application over mere technique, ensuring our students engage with the martial arts’ roots and philosophy.

Located at the Dunkirk Road Activity Centre in Panmure, with additional classes in Glenfield, we offer a diverse range of training sessions. Our curriculum is ever-evolving, featuring general classes, private training, and specialized events such as test cutting and coaching. We also encourage students to invest in their equipment as they progress, moving from basic drills to more dynamic sparring exercises.

In addition to our sword arts, we integrate darker forms of self-defense, such as Defense Dans La Rue (DDLR), a mixed martial arts system that fuses elements from various fighting styles into a coherent and effective self-defense approach. While we also host classes focused on historical bare-knuckle boxing, we aim to instill a rich understanding of both the history and effectiveness of these martial arts.

We invite you to join our community and experience the thrill of training in a supportive environment. Your first two classes are complimentary, allowing you to discover the unique offerings of A.S.E.M.A. Enrich your knowledge, connect with your ancestral roots, and learn how to defend yourself through the art of historical martial traditions.