Instructors

	David Lynch Chief Instructor, David Lynch has had over 40 years of aikido experience. As a result of spending nearly 18 years in Japan, David was able to train under the leading Japanese masters (Gozo Shioda 9th-dan, Koichi Tohei 10th-dan, Kisshomaru Ueshiba Doshu, Kenji Shimizu 8th-dan and others) and gain an unusual degree of experience in a variety of aikido styles. He holds the following ranks: Yoshinkan 6th-dan, Aikikai 3rd-dan, Ki no Kenkyu Kai 2nd-dan and Tendokan 3rd-Dan.
	Paul Rodgers Paul Rodgers (3rd Dan) has been practising aikido since 1991. A former road cyclist, he competed both nationally and internationally between 1986 and 1991. Paul operates a landscaping business in Auckland specialising in Japanese gardens (Paul Rodgers Landscapes).
	Justin Lewis Justin Lewis (3rd dan) has been training since 1995. He began his training under David’s instruction and continues to enjoy training in a range of different styles. Justin is a theatre director and producer.
	Aaron Hanson Aaron Hanson has been practising aikido since 1997 and currently holds the rank of 2nd dan. He has been involved in the martial arts since childhood, having trained in karate for many years previous to aikido. He is a marketer by profession, and currently works as a marketing contractor.
	Ian Drew Ian Drew started martial arts training in 1972 with Judo and then Karate, continuing both for many years, as well as some Chinese and weapons arts. He began aikido at the Lynch dojo in 1997 and continues to love the rich and varied practice. Ian also practices MJER Iaido (Japanese sword drawing) as an adjunct to aikido.
	Kate Butterfield Kate Butterfield began her training in Aikido under David Lynch at the young age of 11, and now continues to train both as a student and instructor having recieved her Shodan grading 3 years ago. In addition to her passion for Aikido, Kate is a also a Masters student at the University of Auckland studying Biological Anthropology (Human Evolution).