Profile

With over 30 years of experience in Hapkido, I specialize in teaching practical self-defence through a blend of traditional techniques and modern application. My focus is on empowering students of all ages to build confidence, discipline, and physical strength in a positive environment.

Martial Arts Background

Rank:I hold the rank of 5th Dan Black Belt (Master), a distinction achieved by only a handful of practitioners under the New Zealand Hapkido Federation.

International Experience: I have represented New Zealand in international Hapkido competitions and demonstrations in both New Zealand and South Korea. In 2015, he placed 6th in the world championships held in Korea.

Competitive Success: He has won multiple medals at the Oceania Hapkido Championships, including gold in black belt open self-defence and silver in both armed and unarmed patterns.

Coaching: I hold a NZJJF C3 Advanced Instructor and has been leading classes for over 20 years

Notable Contributions

Long-Term Club Leadership: I have led the Manawatū Hapkido club for over 20 years, ensuring it remains one of the longest-running continuously operating Hapkido schools in the country.

National Federation Impact: I am one of only four practitioners to have graded to 5th Dan or higher under the New Zealand Hapkido Federation. He recently participated in the inaugural New Zealand Hapkido Federation Leadership Summit in February 2025, leading sessions on self-defence for future leaders.

Instructor Training: As a NZJJF C3 Advanced Instructor, he has mentored numerous students toward their own black belts, generating approximately 15 adult black belts and 6 junior black belts at his dojang.

International Representation: He has served as an ambassador for New Zealand Hapkido, competing and performing demonstrations at the World Championships in South Korea,