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 Aikido is the ‘Way of Harmony’

The emphasis in Aikido training is on non-competitive, co-operative and creative  principles that can be applied to daily life. Regular practice trains the body and mind, developing ‘calmness in action’ and the ability to relax when under pressure.

As a form of self-defence, Aikido develops the inner aspects of dealing with conflict as well as the physical and technical aspects.

Koshinkai Aikido was founded by David Lynch who introduced Aikido to New Zealand.  David trained in Japan for many years with leading Aikido masters Gozo Shioda, Koichi Tohei, Kisshomaru Ueshiba and Kenji Shimizu.  

This gives Koshinkai a broad understanding of the different approaches to Aikido, grounded in an authentic experience of four of the major Japanese Aikido schools.

Training

KEIKO: polishing the mirror, finding the path

The only secret to Aikido is regular training.   Training can be challenging but is also pleasurable and invigorating.

Our dedicated Japanese-style dojo is an attractive, safe and friendly environment with classes morning and evening.

We don’t emphasise grading but we do recognise those who have demonstrated a clear determination to develop themselves through regular training and who contribute to the dojo. Aikido is not a competitive activity.

Jo 1

AIKI WEAPONS: perfecting the self

Aiki weapons, such as bokken, jo and tanto are practised as well as open-handed techniques.  This enriches your understanding of the origins of Aikido as well as training mind and body to work more effectively.

Kamidama1

MEDITATION: energy in silence

An old Zen teaching tells of the archer who hits the target even in pitch darkness by closing his eyes and concentrating on their inner core. Aikido has both “inner” and “outer” aspects and simple meditation exercises develop balance between these aspects.

Classes & Costs

“Nothing Surpasses Regular Training in Aikido” – Morihei Ueshiba


REGULAR CLASSES:

Morning Practice

  • Tuesday: 6:30am-7:30 am- Aiki weapons
  • Wednesday: 6:30am-7:30am – Basics
  • Thursday: 6:30am-7:30am- General
  • Friday: 6:30am-7:30am- General

Evening Practice

  • Monday: 8:00pm-9:00pm – General
  • Tuesday: 7:00pm – 8:30pm- General
  • Thursday: 5:30pm-6:25pm – General

INTRODUCTION TO AIKIDO

Next course: Tuesday 7 May,    7.00 to 8.30 pm.

Find out about the history and philosophy of Aikido, dojo etiquette and what to expect when training.  We will give you a sample of some basic principles and techniques and equip you to join our regular classes.

To register interest or for information contact Justin Lewis:  justin@aikido.co.nz or 021 554 175

GASSHUKU ( Training Camp)

 A weekend of Aikido training.  This is a fun way to develop your Aikido trough an extended period of training .

Dates for 2024 Gasshuku to be announced

KANGEIKO ( winter training)

Once a year in the coldest months we train intensively every morning to build our Aiki spirit

Gasshuku

FEES: 

  • Monthly A/P $60  (plus a one off $100 joining fee)
  • Six-monthly $330 ( no joining fee)
  • Annual $600 ( no joining fee)
  • Visiting Aikidoka are welcome to train at the dojo – a mat fee of $10 per session.

Membership entitles you to train as often as you like

Sensei

David Lynch
Founder

David introduced Aikido to New Zealand in 1965. During his 18 years living and working in Japan, David trained under leading Japanese masters Gozo Shioda, Koichi Tohei, Kisshomaru Ueshiba Doshi, Kenji Shimizu and others. He gained an unusual degree of experience in a variety of aikido styles. He was award the ranks of Yoshinkan 6th-dan, Aikikai 3rd dan, Ki no Kenkyu Kai 2nd-dan and Tendonkan 3rd- dan before establishing his own independent dojo.

David passed away in 2023 with over 60 years of Aikido experience.

Justin Lewis
Dojo – cho 

Justin began his training with David Lynch in 1995. He aims to reflect David’s open-minded attitude and emphasises the continued study of basic exercises and fundamental principles that underpin the various styles of Aikido. Justin’s work as a professional theatre director and playwright has given him the opportunity to train in numerous dojos around the world, giving him a broad base of experience. In 2016 David Lynch awarded Justin his 4th dan – the highest grade David has ever awarded. 

Learn Aikido

Next Introduction Course: Tuesday May 7. 7.00 to 8.30pm

Aikido trains you to deal with conflict in a non-aggressive way . You develop self – defence skills and a stronger, more supple and co-ordinated body. You also gain a positive mental outlook that has practical applications in daily life.  Training can be challenging but it also fun and endlessly rewarding. Aikido doesn’t rely on physical strength and is suitable for people of all ages.

As a modern Japanese budo ( martial way), Aikido will introduce you to Japanese culture and the rich philosophical and spiritual dimensions that can be found there.

You can start Aikido any time. Try two lessons for free anytime or you can join an Introduction to Aikido course.

The “Introduction to Aikido” course is a friendly introduction to the history, philosophy and basic techniques and prepares you to join regular training.

Next Introduction Course:

Tuesday 7 May. 7.00 to 8.30 pm

Booking are essential or for more information: Contact justin@aikido.co.nz

O21 554175