What we do: 

We are a family friendly Martial arts club.  Our purpose is to guide people on their self-development journey using the ways and the spirit of traditional Martial arts.

Karate do is an ancient form of self defense where you train your body as a weapon.   What we measure is effort, dedication, resilience and the growth of one’s character.   That is where the essence of Karate lies.

We have martial arts classes for all ages, starting from 4 years old. Great for kids in developing coordination and focus. Plus lots of fun with a few games thrown in.  We also offer lessons in Weapons.  Our adult training can be as hard and challenging as you want to make it.   We will encourage you to push yourself beyond your perceived limits.  This type of training and philosophy can benefit anyone in all aspects of their lives. 

Our history: 

Kapiti Karate Academy was founded in February 2014 by head instructor Allan Youl.  Initially under the guidance of Shihan Martin Takarangi (6th Dan Zendokai karate) at the "Kapiti Kombat Centre" - a hub of mixed Martial arts, which included kick boxing, Jujitsu, Boxing and Karate. Sensei Allan (already a 1st Dan Black belt in Gokan ryu) was being prepared for his 2nd degree in Zendokai karate while teaching a combination of Shotokan and Zendokai to his students. Unfortunately just prior to Allan's test Sensei Marty had to leave and closed the Kombat Centre.  

Allan took over the Karate, switched to pure Shotokan and affiliated with 8th Dan Sensei Otis of AJKA-international based in the Hawkes bay.  Allan was promoted to 3rd Dan under Otis.  KKA remained with Sensei Otis until 2024 when Otis left the country.  

During this time Sensei Allan developed a great team of Senseis and Sempais (assistant instructors).  Taking them right from beginner level through to Black belt.  Also the club attracted high-level instructors from other clubs, such as Technical Sensei Brad Stevens, a 4th Dan Black belt from USKU.  

Around this period, Sensei Allan was invited to affiliate his club with RKKNZ (Kobudo weapons) by Sensei Thanasi Balophas.  Allan is now a 1st Dan Kobudo black belt and licensed to instruct.

In February 2024 Allan brought Shihan Bertel, the Chief instructor of IKS in Japan to Kapiti for a seminar (which attracted Karate experts from as far as Perth, Australia).  After building a strong relationship with Shihan Bertel, Allan affiliated KKA with IKS.  

The Academy has grown significantly over the past years, now with over 100 students of all ages.  Along with Budo Shotokan karate the club offers a weapons Academy, a Lower Hutt dojo with 2 experienced Senseis and the KKA ‘Little Tigers’ karate program for 4 to 7 year old Kapiti kids.  

(Photo taken 2018)