Karate for all ages
Kids, Teens, Adults
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A Family-Run Karate Club
Discover the Art of Karate in Auckland with LBKI
Lion Budokan Karate International (LBKI) is one of Auckland’s top martial arts clubs. With a focus on discipline, focus and inner strength, these values are at the centre of every class and become part of the student’s path through martial arts. Karate classes are available at LBKI to students from the age of six, encouraging anyone from any previous style or experience in martial arts. The program is structured to embed the classical karate traditions with the contemporary applications of practical self-defence. This balanced style provides a better, holistic method and fosters physical development, mental clarity and personal betterment.LBKI strives to guide students through their learning path while realising their potential. In addition to skills progression, the club focuses on the life enrichment values derived from practice in everyday life.
What Sets LBKI Apart
At LBKI, we believe martial arts is a lifelong journey—not a race to a black belt. Our training goes beyond punches and kicks. We focus on building the mindset and discipline that students can carry into their studies, careers, and relationships. Every lesson is carefully structured to teach more than just technique—it teaches patience, respect, focus, and inner resilience
Top ten reasons
to join LBKI
- Commitment to values of integrity and respect
- An organised and well-structured syllabus
- Milestone system to track progress
- Opportunities to join tournaments that challenge and refine skills
- Karate classes tailored for children (6+), youth, and adults
- A balanced coaching approach focused on participation and performance
- Guidance from qualified and experienced instructors
- A structured and transparent grading system
- Emphasis on improving physical fitness and mental resilience
- Pathways to qualification and licensing after black belt achievement
Building Excellence Through
Martial Arts at LBKI
LBKI was founded in 2013 and has developed into one of Auckland’s established martial arts clubs. Led by Shihan Mohiuddin Syed, the founder and chief instructor, LBKI combines the traditional discipline of karate with modern, practical self-defence skills. LBKI provides age—and fitness-appropriate structure and inclusion within a club environment for continuing personal development and martial arts experience.
The philosophy at LBKI is rooted in the principles of integrity, respect, and balance, which are practised in the dojo and everyday life.
Shihan Mohiuddin has more than 30 years of martial arts experience and prides himself on offering a solid understanding of karate as a physical practice and a life-changing art form—a way to develop discipline, enhance focus, and encourage resilience. He has built LBKI into a dojo that enables students to outgrow the expectation of simply training to develop skills; instead, he has built a dojo where students are outgrowing into versions of excellence. This is something that LBKI has garnered evidence to support as students move from training martial arts to truly engaging in the spirit of martial arts and beyond.
Syed Mohiuddin
Founder & Chief Instructor
LBKI Values
Integrity & Respect
A Family-Run Karate Club
LBKI Karate is a family-run club; the personal touch is at the heart of everything we do. Our family is involved in the club’s day-to-day running, from teaching classes to supporting students and their families. We believe martial arts is more than just training; it builds confidence, discipline, and strong community bonds.
While our family leads the way, we’re proud to have a dedicated team of experienced instructors. Each of them shares our core values of respect, discipline, and genuine care. Together, we work to create a positive and welcoming space where every student feels supported, whether they are just starting or training for their black belt. At LBKI, every student matters, and every journey is personal.
Family-friendly Club
Experienced Instructors
100s of happy members
Expert Instruction and a Structured Grading System
At LBKI, students are taught by instructors that are knowledgeable and enthusiastic while also caring about the development of each student. Shihan Syed assesses and evaluates each instructor, and the instructors stay current with training and evaluation, to ensure they are teaching well, and keeping up their skill and knowledge. This means that students are truly learning from the best – passionate individuals and instructors who love what they do and work hard to help others along their journey. At LBKI, progress is not forced, or hurried. The grading system is simple and shaped to help students advance at their own pace. As students progress, they are totally aware that with each new belt comes personal growth and commitment, not just a new colour. At any point along the journey – whether the student is new to the dojo or needs encouragement to pursue the next step in their journey – there will always be support, encouragement, and next forward with commitment, enthusiasm, and fun.
Progress Tracking and Milestones
LBKI employs a milestone system in order to monitor and promote student development, also tracking them through stages of training. This approach not only motivates students, but also provides students with a clear and definite aim to work toward, and a sense of achievement as they progress. Additionally, LBKI runs tournaments in order for students to test their skills, be able to apply their training, and experience competition.
Consistency Builds Confidence
Dojo Etiquette and Regulations
At LBKI, we don’t just teach respect and discipline; they are part of the assumed culture of the dojo daily. Well-defined etiquette and simple rules help create a safe, supportive and learner-friendly environment where students feel comfortable, focused and ready to learn. Students learn to arrive on time and wear the correct uniform; they know to be friendly, kind, and courteous toward their instructors and fellow students; the little habits of manners and etiquette begin to add up. The small habits help them learn the importance of structure, responsibility, and respect for themselves and each other, which is valuable beyond our time in the dojo. Respect does not mean strict— it is about cultivating confidence, focus, and a sense of community so that we can grow, learn, and thrive together.
More Than a Club—A Martial Arts Community
Over the years, LBKI has grown into a community of like-minded individuals who support one another. Families often attend together; many students have remained with us for years. This loyalty comes not just from quality instruction, but from a sense of belonging.
Personalised Support at Every Stage
No two students are the same, and that’s exactly how we teach. Whether a child is shy and just beginning or a teenager is preparing for their black belt exam, our instructors work with each student at their own pace. We regularly provide progress check-ins, goal-setting discussions, and optional extra sessions to help students reach their potential without pressure.
Our goal for beginners is to make them feel confident and welcome. For intermediate and advanced students, we help sharpen their leadership skills by involving them in warmups and drills and occasionally assisting juniors under instructor supervision.
