Teachers
Meet the Teachers
We offer a friendly and encouraging environment in which to pursue the art of Aikido, placing extra emphasis on the flowing and graceful aspects of the art.
Henry Lynch (6th Dan) started his Aikido journey over 45 years ago and has been helping people learn Aikido for over 30 years. He has also studied Judo, Kendo and Shrinjo-kempo. Sensei Henry is the Chief Instructor and Head of the Riai Aikido Association.
I continue to be inspired by how much more there is to learn. For me there is no more graceful, beautiful and awesomely powerful martial art.
The energetic, invisible side and spiritual aspects of the Art enthral and motivate Danny’s learning. They inspire him to explore further and share his insights with his students.
Conrad (here demonstrating shi ho nage) has been practising aikido for 28 years and is dojo cho and senior instructor at Riai Aikido Wellington City. He loves everything about aikido, but especially the ‘neuroscience’ of aikido – operating below the radar of an attacker's consciousness.
Lyn started her Aikido journey over 24 years ago. She instantly fell in love with the art; the grace and beauty of the movements had her hooked, and she continues to learn something every time she jumps onto the mat. Lyn also finds great joy in teaching others how this art can help them to grow. Lyn is the dojo cho of Belmont dojo.
Vance Karena started Aikido practice in Wellington under Sensei Henry Lynch in October 1993. Vance previously studied Tae Kwon Do in Hamilton in the late 70’s under Willie Lim
Aikido can be challenging, puzzling, perplexing, mysterious as well as fun, interesting, joyful, energetic, dynamic, powerful, calming, and peaceful. These aspects can all be experienced within a one-hour class!
Victor (here demonstrating Sankyo) has been training with Riai Aikido Wellington City for 14 years. Victor is passionate about exploring the dynamic relationships in aikido producing effective yet flowing techniques. Victor is assistant teacher for adults, and teaches our Aiki Teens classes.
Aikido is a constant stabiliser in my life, and an influence for harmony. Applying this discipline to everyday life is very hard but very rewarding.
Nick (here demonstrating nikkyo) teaches Riai Aikido Wellington City's adult beginners courses
My philosophy has always been that no one really “wins” in a fight: hurting someone else merely invites retribution further down the track in some form. You could call that karma. However, being defenceless is no answer either: not wanting to fight does not mean you want to be a victim. I came to the...
Jason (here demonstrating yonkyo) teaches Riai Aikido Wellington City's Aiki Kids classes