The Top 7 Martial Arts Classes in Auckland for Every Skill Level
David Harris
| Last Updated: January 2025 Ever tried learning martial arts from someone who clearly got their black belt from watching too many YouTube videos? Trust me, it’s an experience.
My first martial arts class was in a dimly lit “dojo” that smelled faintly of old gym socks. The instructor spent more time fiddling with his phone than teaching us. He’d show us a move on the screen and then have us imitate it, pausing frequently to rewind and catch what he missed.
Let’s just say it gave me a newfound appreciation for legitimate martial arts training programmes.
Since then, I’ve tried to find the best martial arts classes in Auckland to make sure my next class won’t be a disaster. So, if you also need a good martial arts class, here are the ones that made it to my list!
How much does it cost to take martial arts classes in Auckland?
How I Choose
1. The Shinobi Academy
The Shinobi Academy is an expansive, fully equipped martial arts gym dedicated to training individuals of all ages in diverse disciplines, including Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing, boxing, and mixed martial arts (MMA).
With specialized instructors and an emphasis on foundational fitness, the academy offers a modern approach to martial arts training, helping students cultivate strength, agility, and self-discipline. They also have options for personal training and youth-focused programs through their partnership with MAKA, a youth leadership initiative.
Programs and Classes The Shinobi Academy’s programs are built around popular martial arts like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing, boxing, and mixed martial arts, offering a balance of grappling and striking skills.
Their two-week trial period provides prospective members with a taste of the academy’s atmosphere and training style, allowing individuals to explore the range of disciplines offered. Classes are available for all ages, with separate groups for children (ages 5-8, 8-12, and teens) as well as a competition squad for those pursuing martial arts competitively.
The Shinobi Academy’s coaches are seasoned professionals with significant accolades, ensuring high-quality instruction. Their one-on-one personal training sessions also allow members to work on specific goals with a coach at either the gym or an off-site location.
Customer Reviews
The kids are blessed to have coaches who value them so much
“First of all, I would like to thank all The shinobi academy coaches for their hard work and making my children become members of the big family. The kids are blessed to have coaches who value them so much. Especially Jahnis !!! He has taught mine a lot of skills and knowledge that the kids can learn in daily training !”
The instructors are fantastic, giving detailed guidance on every move
“My kids have loved their nine months at The Shinobi Academy. The instructors are fantastic, giving detailed guidance on every move and keeping the classes fun with engaging games. We’ve seen great improvements in their skills and confidence. It’s a supportive and enjoyable environment, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking for quality martial arts training for their kids!”
2. Xtra Edge
| WEBSITE | https://www.xtra-edge.nz/ |
| ADDRESS | Ponsonby Community Centre 20 Ponsonby Terrace Ponsonby Auckland 1011 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 0292220555 [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Every Second Saturday: 08:30am – 10:00am |
Xtra Edge Martial Arts offers a dynamic and empowering training experience for individuals of all skill levels. With a focus on discipline, self-defense, and physical fitness, their classes provide a well-rounded approach to martial arts. Whether you’re a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced practitioner refining your technique, Xtra Edge creates a supportive and challenging environment to help you achieve your goals.
The instructors at Xtra Edge are highly skilled and passionate about their craft, ensuring that each student receives personalized attention and guidance. Their teaching style blends traditional martial arts principles with modern training techniques, making classes both engaging and effective. Students not only develop strength and agility but also learn valuable self-defense strategies that can be applied in real-life situations.
Beyond physical training, Xtra Edge emphasizes mental resilience, focus, and personal growth. The structured classes encourage discipline and perseverance, which extend beyond the dojo into everyday life. With a welcoming community and a commitment to excellence, Xtra Edge Martial Arts is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to improve their fitness, confidence, and self-defense skills.
Customer Reviews
“Have been attending xtra edge for two months and I’ve noticed quite a difference in myself. Physically I’ve learnt some invaluable defence skills which I’m gaining confidence to use in a difficult situation if the need comes. Week by week the training has also grown me mentally to deal with challenging situations not just in a self defence way but life in general. Very approachable and highly knowledgeable coach. The classes are a great way to end a week/begin a weekend.” – Prissey MK
“🌟 Empowered and Strong! 🌟 Our NumberWise team had an amazing experience last Saturday at Xtra-Edge Self-Defence. This empowering class was a great workout, benefiting us both mentally and physically. We learned situational awareness, de-escalation techniques, and practical self-defence skills. These skills help us handle challenges both at work and in everyday life. We walked away feeling more resilient, with improved fitness, and a renewed sense of confidence and calmness. Thank you, Xtra-Edge, for helping us discover our potential. Now, we’re not just good with numbers but also armed with self-defence skills! 💪👊” – Nelson Wang
3. The Kung Fu School – Mt Eden
The Kung Fu School is ideal for families looking to practise kung fu together or individuals seeking a supportive community where they can train at their own pace. It has classes for children from age 5 to adults.
The head instructor, who holds a PhD in education, brings a wealth of knowledge and a structured teaching approach that makes learning accessible for everyone, regardless of skill level.
The traditional martial arts values instilled in the session stood out to me the most. The curriculum covers everything from evasion techniques to hand strikes, kicking, and submissions.
I particularly enjoyed the introduction to famous Shaolin animal styles and Qi Gong, which added a unique cultural depth to the training.
The variety of 18 traditional Chinese weapon classes is also a highlight for those interested in mastering ancient martial arts tools. Some beginners, though, might find this class a bit overwhelming.
Customer Reviews
The instructors are so much fun and incredibly devoted
“I absolutely love Mt Eden Kung Fu School. It’s like a second home and it’s incredible for people wanting to get fit, meet people, work on themselves and challenge their abilities – physically and mentally! The instructors are so much fun and incredibly devoted – along with all the seniors who love to make you feel at home and help you out. Came from a background of absolutely no martial arts and it’s become a huge part of my life. Couldn’t recommend enough.”
- Brittany Cook Google Review
The learning environment is so open and friendly
“I’ve been going to the Mt Eden Kung Fu School for 7 years and it has become one of the most rewarding and influential parts of my life. The learning environment is so open and friendly, and has allowed me to not only develop my fitness and Kung Fu skills but also life skills such as leadership and communication. The instructors are welcoming and encourage the students to reach their full potential. “
4. Van Roon Martial Arts
Head coach Carl Van Roon, with black belts in karate and taekwondo and 28 years of martial arts expertise, has inspired many to believe they too can achieve black belt status.
Parents appreciate the emphasis on self-discipline, respect, and anti-bullying in their kids’ taekwondo classes. This holistic approach has equipped their children to handle challenges better both on and off the mat.
For adults, taekwondo and kickboxing classes are a hit, especially because of the opportunities to compete at national and international levels. Many mentioned that these competitions provide an exhilarating chance to showcase their skills and gain recognition.
What stood out to me, though, were the tricking classes. They combine acrobatics with martial arts, which is the perfect way to add excitement and flair to martial arts.
Some did mention that the class schedules can be somewhat rigid. The large class sizes also occasionally make it harder for students to get personalised attention.
But despite this, Van Roon Martial Arts is a solid choice for anyone looking for a supportive and all-encompassing martial arts training environment in Auckland.
Customer Reviews
They have a class for everything and have amazing coaches
“This place is amazing for starting off to being A black belt or to a white belt or somewhere in the middle, they have a class for everything and have amazing coach’s, they can be harsh sometimes but that’s what helps you get better by pushing yourself. Mr Glover is the best coach but has disappeared. The school holiday program is amazing and I loved it and it would be fun for people who don’t do martial arts too. The sparring squad is also quite good.”
- Felix Mahajan Google Review
Everyone took home all the moves they learned and had a great time
“Really appreciate Carl and Allister for your generous support of the school holiday programs at Epsom Community Library. Your professionalism, friendliness, and sense of humour made the workshop enjoyable for both kids and parents. Everyone took home all the moves they learned and had a great time. We’ve received so much positive feedback from both parents and children, with some expressing their eagerness to join your group for further learning.
Once again, we sincerely appreciate your support for our community.
Huge thanks”
- Danqing Wu Google Review
5. Auckland Martial Arts Academy
During my trial Muay Thai class at Auckland Martial Arts Academy, I was struck by the welcoming atmosphere and the instructors’ dedication.
Although the Muay Thai sessions were intense because of their focus on both technique and conditioning, I felt both challenged and supported. And by the end of the class, I could see why so many people raved about it.
Beyond Muay Thai, the Jiu-Jitsu class is particularly popular for its focus on ground fighting techniques and submissions. Many appreciate the clear instruction and structured progression.
And there’s high praise for the women’s only classes where the lead coach, Wendy Talbot, creates an empowering environment where women can learn self-defence skills confidently while also having fun.
However, some felt that the membership fees were steep, especially for those on a student budget.
Customer Reviews
Best martial arts gym experience I’ve had
“The best martial arts gym experience I’ve had in over a decade of training. The facilities are state of the art, the coaches are world class and extremely professional. The gym is central with plenty of parking and affordable membership options for every budget.”
- Mr Dell Google Review
Honestly this place has it all
“Amazing martial arts gym with the best coaches and admin staff. The environment is very welcoming and inviting while the facility itself is very spacious and most Importantly clean. There’s heaps of free parking around so there no excuses for being late to class. The gym offers so many different types of classes which is rare to find so the potential to cross train and find what you like is definitely there. Honestly this place has it all, the only thing left is to embrace the grind and sign up.”
6. KRAV Fighter
For anyone serious about self-defence, Krav Fighter is the place to be. The training at Krav Fighter is rooted in the battlefield-proven methodologies of renowned self-defence experts Itay Gil and Lior Offenbach, which many members find incredibly reassuring.
Several regulars mentioned that knowing that their instructors have been trained by such high-calibre Israeli counter-terrorism members gives them a lot of confidence in the techniques they learn.
Others who have been training with Krav Fighter for over a year told me that the mix of military, police, and modern martial arts techniques bridges any gaps and makes for a comprehensive training experience.
And for women looking to gain confidence and learn effective self-defence, Krav Fighter offers specialised Krav Maga classes tailored just for you. Many have shared stories of how these sessions have not only improved their physical strength but also boosted their mental resilience.
However, if you’re looking to explore a wider variety of martial arts styles, the offerings might be a bit limiting.
Customer Reviews
I can’t recommend Krav Fighter enough
“I joined Krav Fighter a few months ago with the intention of boosting my awareness, confidence and self defence skills before I head overseas. Having never done any form of martial art or self defence before, I was a little intimidated at first because other members were of course far more skilled. However, the sense of community here is amazing; everyone supports each other, and you feel like you’re part of a family. Luby is especially lovely, patient and dedicated to helping you learn. Joel is also highly skilled and really helps you get your technique right. The basics training and gym sessions are all super informative and fun but equally intense – it’s a great way to get/keep fit! I’ve seen a significant improvement in my self-defence and fitness abilities in just a short time. I can’t recommend Krav Fighter enough, particularly for women looking to harness their girl power 💪🏼 A fantastic place to train and grow both physically and mentally. Gutted to be leaving – if I wasn’t heading overseas, there is no doubt that I would carry on training here. Thank you team, you’re all amazing ! ❤️”
- Grace Google Review
At each session you learn something useful
“I’ve been training there for 3 months and I feel much more confident and aware in my daily life. Being a woman, I was a bit cautious at first but I found it to be a safe environment, the guys are kind and respectful. At each session you learn something useful, with the explanations as to why do it this way and not that way, in which situations to use it, etc. Any questions are welcomed and answered with details. This is helpful both physically to get in shape (which I was not) and mentally to feel safer and stronger. I highly recommend, even just to learn the basics, these are lifelong skills you’ll be learning there.”
- Céline Google Review
7. Lion Budokan Karate International
LBKI is a place where traditional karate and modern self-defence techniques are taught in harmony, appealing to those looking for a holistic approach to martial arts.
Shihan Syed Mohiuddin, the founder and chief instructor, has nearly three decades of karate training under his belt. His philosophy of martial arts as an essential art form offers physical benefits, mental discipline, and a deeper understanding of oneself.
His philosophy resonates with many of the parents I talked to, who were keen on the mental and physical growth they observed in their children after a few classes.
Many others loved the mix of traditional karate and modern self-defence techniques, finding it both challenging and rewarding. Several mentioned how the milestone system for tracking progress and the frequent tournaments keep them motivated and engaged.
However, classes can sometimes become quite crowded, which might hinder personalised attention. Some also commented on how the additional expenses for uniforms, equipment, and participation in frequent tournaments can be quite high.
Customer Reviews
Found my daughters to be more confident and energetic
“We are a proud family to be part of the Lion Budokan Karate Int Club. We enjoy our classes and the best part is you actually learn a lot every passing class. Found my daughters to be more confident and energetic , thanks to the detailed attention given by Sensei and his team to every student on the whole! Wish Lion Budokan the very best and look forward for more learning! Just have to remember, age is just a number and enjoy to the fullest :)”
- Kamran Qamar Google Review
Enables them to develop a disciplined character
“Lion Budokan karate International is leading and one of largest in Auckland region. Renshi Syed’s martial arts journey began with Karate in his youth, he is the New Zealand Chief Instructor and Examiner. His mission is to continue training and to enable people of all ages to learn about how to have respect, patience and enables them to develop a disciplined character. Wonderful supportive environment for new learners as well. Strongly recommended !”
- Kishor Guleria Google Review
