About Whangarei BJJ
Whangarei BJJ is Northland's home of serious martial arts training, led by the region's only IBJJF-certified BJJ Black Belt — a 3rd Degree with over two decades on the mat. We offer a full programme including adult BJJ, No-Gi grappling, MMA, striking, Tai Chi Chuan, and dedicated kids and youth classes. Whatever your starting point, there's a place for you here.
We don't believe in padding out class time. Our approach is built around the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA) — a modern coaching methodology that gets students problem-solving and adapting from day one, rather than just repeating techniques in a vacuum. You'll learn faster, retain more, and understand the why behind what you're doing. Maximum value, minimum fluff.
Our classes are designed for people who want to be challenged. We're particularly proud of how quickly we bring beginners up to speed — the goal is to get you swimming with the sharks, not being eaten by them. If you're looking to get genuinely fit, learn to handle yourself, and train in a gym that takes the craft seriously, Whangarei BJJ is built for you.
Areas of Specialisation
We specialise in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Gi & No-Gi), MMA, , and striking, with dedicated kids and youth martial arts programmes. We also offer Tai Chi Chuan and structured competition training for those looking to test themselves on the mat.
Styles & Practices Taught
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- MMA
- Judo
- Muay Thai
- Kickboxing
- Competition Training
- Kids Classes
- Tai Chi Chuan
Training Emphasis
We train using the Constraints-Led Approach — a modern methodology that develops adaptable, thinking martial artists rather than robotic technique-repeaters. Classes are fast-paced and high-value, with a strong emphasis on live sparring so students build real skills under real pressure. We believe in challenging our students early and often, because genuine confidence only comes from being tested.
Classes & Training
Class Structure
Our doors are open to anyone from 4 years old and up — whether you're a curious kid, a complete beginner, or a seasoned competitor looking for a serious training environment. Classes are structured to meet students where they are, with dedicated programmes for children, youth, and adults across BJJ, No-Gi, MMA, and striking. Every session is built around purposeful drilling, guided problem-solving, and live sparring — so students aren't just learning martial arts, they're actually developing them.
Timetable
