Aikido Aotearoa New Zealand Incorporated is a not for profit organisation that aims to provide members with the necessary support for their dojo and students, to foster friendly, inclusive relationships, and to assist with governance in order to promote and improve the practice of Aikido in New Zealand.

We hope this exchange encourages a deeper understanding of the power and beauty of the Aikido bequeathed to us by its Founder, Morihei Ueshiba O-Sensei. 

We have five member-dojo across New Zealand, all offering adult’s classes (16 years and over) and some offering children’s classes. Our member-dojo provide students with safe, supportive and friendly environments to learn Aikido.

Aikido translates as the Way of United Energy. Aikido was developed by Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) who transformed his mastery of classical Japanese martial arts into a way to transcend conflict and to nourish the growth of both individuals and society.

“Budo (the martial way) is not a means of felling an opponent by force or by lethal weapons. True Budo calls for bringing the energy of the universe in order, protecting the peace of the world, as well as preserving everything in nature in its right form.” — M Ueshiba

Aikido does not resist force, instead it blends with and neutralises it.  There are no competitions in Aikido; instead practitioners of all levels work collaboratively to develop their skills and expression of Aikido's principles. Practicing Aikido develops strong, resilient bodies and minds that are calmer and more adaptive to change. Aikido is more than a method of self-defence, it is a way to enhance the lives of everyone who practices it.

Aikido Aotearoa New Zealand’s member-dojo practice under the auspices of the World Aikikai Foundation.  This association was established to support the inheritance of Aikido created by Morihei Ueshiba O-Sensei, and is active in 140 countries worldwide. The Aikikai is headed by the Founder’s grandson Moriteru Ueshiba Doshu

  • Morihei Ueshiba

    Founder

    Founder 1883 - 1969

  • Kisshomaru Ueshiba

    2nd Doshu

    1921 - 1999

  • Moriteru Ueshiba

    3rd Doshu

    1951 -