44th Riai Aikido Friendship Festival

A coming together of Aikido

Weekend 18th and 19th October 2025

The Friendship Festival is a coming together of the Aikido Community and is open to all Aikido affiliations and styles. As well as the teaching and learning at the Festival, there will also be a demonstration by Senseis’ on Sunday and an option to join us at the festival dinner Saturday evening.

This Festival is not just a gathering but a vibrant exploration of the art of Aikido. It bridges practitioners from diverse backgrounds and philosophies, fostering a rich exchange of techniques and perspectives that enrich the understanding of the Art.

This festival provides a unique opportunity to learn from a variety of teachers and to engage with ideas that transcend styles, focusing on the universal principles that define the art.

This year’s Festival is a vibrant exploration of Aikido, connecting the following practitioners from various backgrounds to share techniques and perspectives.

Henry Lynch

6th DAN RIAI AIKIDO

Sensei Ray Eder

6th Dan Kyu Shin Do Aikido

Sensei Dianne Haynes

6th Dan Tatsu Gi Kai

Liam O'Donoghue

Sensei Liam
O’Donoghue

6th Dan Ōtautahi Aikido

Sensei Lyn Meachen

4th Dan Riai Aikido

Conrad Edwards

4th Dan Riai Aikido

Timetable

Saturday 18th October – 10.00am to 4:30pm

Sunday 19th October – 9.00am to 1:00pm

Venue

Michael Park Rudolf Steiner School, 55 Amy Street, Ellerslie, Auckland

Cost

Several cost options are available please see below:

TWO DAYS

$135 Super Early Bird – register before Thursday 31st July 2025

$165 Early Bird – register before Thursday 30th September 2025

$185 Standard Rate – after Thursday 30th September 2025

SINGLE DAY

$145 Saturday 18th October 2025

$125 Sunday 19th October 2025

Morning and afternoon teas are included. Cafes are close by or bring your own lunch.