Andy Anderson, Chief Instructor

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Andy commenced karate training in 1979, gaining Shodan in 1985 from Sensei Takasaka of Kei Shin Kan Karate Do. Andy trained under renowned Grand Master Masanao Takazawa (1930 – 2010) in Nagano, Japan and at Takashimadaira dojo, Tokyo during the 1980’s.This included training at the famous Budokan. Andy pays regular visits to Okinawa to further his knowledge of the art. Andy is also a degree grade black belt in the art of kobudo (weapons) Ryukyu Dento Kobu-jutsu Kyokai. Andy’s interest in karate is teaching formal techniques, as shown by the masters who he has been fortunate to know. Andy is a bridge to a bygone karate era and enjoys teaching these values in a modern day environment. 

  

Brendan Young  -  4th Dan

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Brendan is a true karate traditionalist, beginning his karate journey in his early teens.  Following a long hiatus Brendan recommenced training in 1992.  Brendan has a love of kata and has competed at National kata competitions achieving silver medals in the Open and Senior categories.  His pursuits in martial arts include Kendo, in which he has attained Nidan grade. Brendan has a passion for the history and traditions of karate and incorporating the budo principles into a modern-day setting.

 

Martin Gembitsky  - 3rd Dan

 

Martin is a highly valued san-dan senior and instructor. Martin is a genuine karate traditionalist, having trained in a number of styles and with many notable sensei’s, dating back 60 years.  This includes Budokan, Seikukan and Ishinryu styles.

Martin’s knowledge and understanding is formidable.  It also runs in the family: Martin’s daughter Lisa represented NZ in kata and kumite.

Martin is extremely well liked by children and adults, his temperament and understanding being an example to all.
With such an extended background and experience the club is indeed fortunate to have Martin.

 

Taare Walker - 2nd Dan

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Taare started training in 2017 during his final year of high school. Taare has now achieved Nidan, second degree back belt. Taare is well known for his love of kumite and developing training skills. He enjoys training in different disciplines, and has the trust and respect of students. Taare is a most popular member of the club. He is well supported by his father George, and brother Fremyn, a current club senior.

 

Lance Lissette, Founder  (retired)

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Lance is now semi retired and assists Andy on an occasional basis. Lance started Wellington Karate Academy in 2005 after completing 25 years traditional training. The club was set up initially to coach New Zealand team members and quickly evolved into teaching traditional karate. Lance is well known for motivating members and teaching karate technique in a way that is easily understood. He has an ability to fuse traditional Japanese values with the kiwi spirit, making karate enjoyable as well as beneficial for members. Lance has inspired many members to achieve their ambitions both on and off the dojo.