Student Reviews

I met Marty nearly 20 years ago in the States. He just gave me a firm handshake, a bit of a laugh, and invited me onto the floor to do Karate, no fuss, no formality. Just genuine, honest teaching from a genuine, honest man. Since then we have been good friends, and he's been a mentor to me personally, professioanlly, and, of course, in martial arts. He has built a wonderful community and a great program, which I had the pleasure of working with both in States and on my visit to NZ. If you're looking for a place not only to learn martial arts but have a community to be a part of, something harder and harder to find these day, you will be right at home in this dojo!

I have known Marty from Ryuku Kempo Karate for many years now. Marty will create a safe place for anyone to learn and gain valuable life skills. As a parent the kids will learn how to face the world we now live in and be able to handle situations we don't always like being in. They will learn Karate with valuable life skills. I personaly trained with Marty for a number of years and can personally recommend the teachings he will bring. Marty has years of experience behind him. I highly recommend starting this journey as it's one that will never be forgotten.

I've been training with Marty and his Dojo since 2008 when I moved to NZ. I have always felt welcome in his class and I have enjoyed the atmosphere and learning. Marty is an excellent martial arts instructor with a great combination of technical skill, lived experiences and sense of humor, I highly recommend training with him and his fellow instructors. Having myself studied martial arts in Canada, the USA and NZ I have met few instructors with the same passion for teaching practical, useful martial arts as Marty. Great combination classes teaching empty hand techniques, weapons and practical defense.

An amazing club, with really strong leadership & mentorship. The thing that impresses me the most about instructor Marty Rickard and his team, is how they have maintained their authenticity & high family values in a modern world. I have done a lot of different martial arts, but few instructors can compare with Marty's knowledge and functional skills. If you want a well rounded martial art that delivers on tradition, self defense, and values, this is the perfect place to get started. I can't recommend Marty enough.

I meet Marty at a Mixed Martial Arts seminar, a few years back. A room full of talented martial artist and don't want to take anything away from anyone else that was there but got to touch hands with him a few times over the weekend. And was just in awe of his knowledge and just easy,relatable nature. Who happily made a few pointers that I hadn't considered. With a side of good banter. Have kept contact and he has always been open to making time for me to train with him and share his passion and art. (I just need more hours in a day and to be closer,and maybe not let life get in the way) But I always drive away with something new to consider and work on. But also has some good easy to follow videos but nothing compares to hands on. Passion, integrity, and just an awesome dude. So empty the cup and don't think of Olympic karate but learn some karate with a history but fits in the modern world.

I decided to go looking for a Karate class as an adult since I'd always wanted to learn as a kid but the classes I found then were too expensive. I am so happy to have found Marty and the team. Putting myself out there and walking into class that first time two years ago is the best decision I've made in my adult life. It has done wonders for my mental and physical health and I have seen a similar growth in my sister since I dragged her along with me. It's a great space for kids and adults alike and Marty has gone out of his way to make it affordable for all family's. Thank you so much to the whole team for the strength and confidence you've helped me cultivate and the great fun it's been along the way!!!