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The purpose of training is to tighten up the slack, toughen the body, and polish the spirit. Morihei Ueshiba

 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.

Our Japanese style Dojo is an attractive place to train in central Auckland.

Training

Progress comes to those who train and train; reliance on secret techniques will get you nowhere.   Morihei Ueshiba

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

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.

In Aikido we practice a non-competitive method of training from Japanese budo (martial way).

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AIKI WEAPONS

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.

MIND AND BODY

In Aikido we are training to bring mind and body together.  We practice seated meditation and breathing exercises.  Aikido is often described as a moving meditation where we’re developing the ability to remain calm and clear even under great pressure.

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DOJO

Our Japanese style dojo is a dedicated solely to martial arts training with classes morning and evening.  In March 2025, we moved to our new premises.  It’s a  safe, friendly and attractive environment with mats permanently down.

Classes & Costs

Nothing surpasses regular training in Aikido.  Morihei Ueshiba 

MORNINGS

  • Tuesday: 6:30 – 7:30am   
  • Wednesday: 6:30 – 7:30am
  • Thursday: 6:30 – 7:30am
  • Friday: 6:30 – 7:30am

EVENINGS

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

START AIKIDO

Beginners are welcome to start any time either by joining regular training or via an introduction course.

INTRODUCTION COURSE

Next course: Tuesday 28 October and Tuesday 4 November 7.00 to 8.30pm

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.

$50 for the two sessions.  ( if you join this comes off the cost of your membership)

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

Gasshuku

FEES: 

  • Monthly A/P $85  
  • Six-monthly $500 
  • Annual $900 
  • Visiting Aikidoka are welcome to train at the dojo – a mat fee of $20 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 28 October and Tuesday 4 November 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 28 October and Tuesday 4 November 7.00 to 8.30pm

$50 for the two sessions ( if you join this comes off the cost of your membership)

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

O21 554175