Ochiba Dojo Nurturing champions through martial arts and community spirit
In the heart of Orewa, a dojo with a difference is making waves, proving that the power of martial arts extends far beyond the dojo walls. Ochiba Dojo has become a cornerstone of the community, fostering character, discipline and athleticism through a range of martial arts disciplines, and all at no cost to the participants. At the helm of Ochiba Dojo is Alan Polkinghorne, a man whose dedication to martial arts and his community knows no bounds. A seasoned martial artist himself, Alan has been around martial arts all his life and now teachers others to share his passion, transforming the lives of countless individuals through his tireless efforts and generosity in the process. His explanation of martial arts is simple – martial arts is more than just physical combat; it's about building strong character and selfdiscipline. At Ochiba Dojo Alan has created a nurturing environment where individuals from seven upwards can grow and thrive. Ochiba Dojo is not merely a place to learn martial arts techniques, it's a haven where life skills are cultivated. The range of
disciplines on offer, including judo, jiujitsu and karate, caters to a diverse range of students, each on their unique journey of self-improvement. What sets this Dojo apart is not only its commitment to excellence but also its charitable nature. Despite being a non-profit organisation the dojo has achieved remarkable success, sending multiple kids to the prestigious Oceania Championships. With support from the community, they hope to further their successes across the globe. Ochiba Dojo's impact, however, can be measured not just in trophies, but in the confidence and resilience it instils in its students. Several young talents who honed their skills within the dojo walls have gone on to shine on national and international stages, a testament to the mentorship and training they receive. Alan Polkinghorne's commitment to his students surpasses ordinary training sessions. He allocates significant time, dedication and personal resources to ensure his students can access optimal opportunities, with multiple classes every night of the week. He expresses a firm belief in his student’s potential and a dedication to equipping them with the necessary means for achievement inside
and outside the dojo. Sensei Polkinghorne's devotion is undoubtedly the driving force behind Ochiba Dojo's success story and the positive impact it has within our community. As Ochiba Dojo celebrates its fourth birthday in its Orewa location it stands as a testament to the remarkable impact that a dedicated mentor and a supportive community can achieve. Due to the success and great reputation of the dojo, student numbers have been steadily increasing, yet Sensei Polkinghorne is determined to keep the classes as a charitable offering. If any individuals or businesses in the community feel they could help with resources or support, you can contact Alan at Al@samurai.co.nz. Our community is so lucky to have this thriving hub of inspiration, dedication and achievement in our midst and we’d love to see it continue to grow.
Madison Derbyshire-Smith | Features Contributor