New Zealand School of Shukokai Karate
At NZ Shukokai Karate, we believe in more than just teaching martial arts – we focus on you. Our training is built on a supportive, family-friendly environment where everyone feels welcome from the very first session. With one-to-one attention and encouragement, we not only help you develop your karate skills, but also support your personal growth, confidence, and wellbeing in everyday life.
About Us
The Journey Begins
Every great journey begins with a single step. For many, that step starts the moment they walk through the doors of NZ Shukokai Karate.
At first, it may feel unfamiliar — the sound of kiais echoing through the dojo, the discipline of bowing in, the effort of holding a strong stance. But soon, something changes. What was once challenging becomes empowering. Posture grows taller. Confidence shines brighter. Discipline and respect begin to weave into everyday life.
For children, Shukokai Karate becomes more than a martial art — it becomes a source of confidence, focus, and resilience.
For adults, it is a way to sharpen the mind, strengthen the body, and rediscover inner determination. And for everyone, it is a community where encouragement and respect stand at the heart of every class.At NZ Shukokai Karate, we don’t just train fighters — we shape character, spirit, and strength that last a lifetime.Your journey is waiting. Are you ready to take the first step?
DOJO CREED
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EFFORT
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PATIENCE
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TEMPERENCE
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RESPECT
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CREATIVITY
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COURAGE
At NZ Shukokai Karate, we are dedicated to providing top-notch karate training in a supportive and inclusive environment. Our dojo is a place where you can challenge yourself, grow your skills, and achieve your fitness and personal development goals.
INSTRUCTOR :
Sensei Andrew Kowanjko
Sensei Andrew Kowanjko 5th Dan Shukokai
Sensei Andrew began formal training in Shukokai 1986 with Hanshi Paul Mitchell at the Bayswater dojo in Melbourne, Australia
Sensei was graded to Shodan – Ho (Black Belt) in 1990. During Sensei’s first few years of Shukokai training he was fortunate enough to train with many Shukokai masters of the time including Sensei Tani, Sensei Kimura and Sensei Tommy Morris.
The Grandfather of Shukokai Karate in New Zealand.
In 1998 whilst following his passion for snowboarding Sensei Andrew settled in Wanaka and opened the first ever Shukokai Karate Dojo in New Zealand. In the same year the New Zealand Shukokai Karate association was founded and grew in numbers rapidly as many people discovered the unique and powerful style that is Shukokai.
Unfortunately in 1998 Sensei Tani passed, and his successor Master Sensei Yamada now headed the Shukokai Union where he was a big influence in Sensei Andrew’s development, grading him to Sandan in 2000. In 2001 Sensei made his first training trip to Japan which became the first of many.
Sensei also begun learning from Sensei Kawata of the Seikukei school 9th Dan in 2001 and was graded to Godan (5th Dan Shukokai) in 2010 by Sensei Kawata.
Sensei Andrew also holds the Title of Shidoin (International Instructor qualification) and Kenshi (Acknowledgement of character and personal development ).
Explore Our Class Schedule
How It Works
Embark on a journey of transformation with our diverse class schedule, offering training sessions suitable for all levels, from peewee classes ages 4 to 7 years old to Juniors to advanced practitioners. Immerse yourself in the art of Shukokai Karate and progress at your own pace.
Class Timings
Find the class timings that best suit your schedule
Peewee Classes 4 yrs to 7 yrs
Tuesdays (Balmoral)
5.30pm to 6.30pm
Juniors and Adults (Balmoral)
Tuesdays and Wednesdays
6.30pm to 7.30pm
Juniors and Adults (Pukekohe)
Thursdays
6.00pm to 7.00pm
LOCATIONS
Balmoral
10 Wiremu Street, Mount Eden, Auckland
Pukekohe
232 Pukekohe East Rd, Pukekohe East
Contact Us
Have a question or want to learn more about our programs?
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and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.