Welcome to aikido in Hamilton!

Aikido is a non-aggressive and non-competitive Japanese Martial Art. Aikido exploits the natural turning motions of joints to throw, immobilise or pin an opponent. It is an efficient and extremely effective discipline. Aikido offers physical, mental and spiritual benefits to people of all ages.

Aikido Shinryukan - Hamilton is affiliated to Aikido Shinryukan and as such retains strong links with International Aikikai. Every year, NZ Aikikai Federation brings to New Zealand top Shihan (professors) from the Aikikai Foundation in Tokyo to instruct and conduct seminars, thereby maintaining strong links to the Tokyo Headquarters and Doshu Moriteru Ueshiba. All Dan grades (black belts) are awarded by the Aikikai Foundation and registered in Japan.

Aikido Shinryukan Hamilton takes part in a programme of regular seminars with guest instructors in our neighbouring dojo. Our intention is to develop the quality of training available to students, locally, and to support the wider Aikido community in promoting the teaching and development of Aikido.

The venue at the University of Waikato is an attractive facility well suited to aikido. Classes are held, regularly, each week for most of the year. Japan-registered dan‑grade (black belt) instructors teach all classes. The chief instructor is Douglas Gilmore, 5th degree black belt.

Contact Details

Douglas Gilmore (027) 227 7066 or Murray Care (027) 477 9641.

What to do

Aikido is a journey. The first step for everyone begins when you enter the dojo (training centre).

Come along

Beginners are welcome to watch any of our classes or train in the general or basics classes. See the Training page for training times and a map.