PART ONE - SOUTH ISLAND... February 2024: Christchurch, New Zealand Seminar Overview

 On February 10th and 11th, I conducted a Technical Seminar in Christchurch City, New Zealand, which so happens to be my hometown.

The course was an exclusive event, which only a small number of places available, making it very personal. It’s been five years since I’ve taught in New Zealand, so it was a chance for me to review a lot of past content—already taught elsewhere around the world—and also pass on some new material: not properly taught outside Japan before (in a budo/bujutsu context). The chief organizer, Peter Burtenshaw Sensei (5th Dan) was nothing less than an excellent host, along with the guys at the Christchurch club. Allan Sensei, organizer of the Kapiti Coast (North Island) Seminar attended, which was awesome; also, Peter Sensei from Wellington enthusiastically attended both events. A few hardcore lads from Australia also came: Grant Sensei (from Perth), and Bryan Sensei and Morney (from Noosa). Yet others travelled from other parts of the South Island. It was also great to have karateka from other styles. A big bow to everyone.

In all cases, I’m always deeply honored to teach and hope that everyone gained from the experience; furthermore, that each individual had a fun time doing so. By request, the kata covered were 半月 (Hangetsu) and 水手 (Suishu). These were covered in context with Budo/Bujutsu Karate Kihon and Oyo/Jissen-Kumite applications.

Primarily, this YouTube video is for those who physically participated and provides reminders/cues about several of the key points covered. I need to add here that the kata notes and supplementary video links have been provided to Peter Burtenshaw Sensei (to share accordingly, with all of the participants).

Overall, it was wonderful to practice with these wonderful people and also spend some enjoyable times outside the dojo as well. I wish you all the best of health, happiness and excellent training.

Stay tuned, a report from the Kapiti Coast Seminar, and video will also be uploaded soon.

押忍

André

To watch the YouTube video: click on the following link:

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2024).