About LBKI NZ
Our Story
LBKI Karate – Our Journey
Since 2013
Lion Budokan Karate International (LBKI) has been part of Auckland’s martial arts community since 2013. Over the years, we have welcomed students of different ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds, bringing them together through a shared interest in karate. What began with a passion for teaching traditional karate has grown into a club where students can learn, challenge themselves, and develop at their own pace.
At LBKI, we believe karate has something to offer everyone. While learning techniques and improving physical fitness are important parts of training, there is much more to gain from regular practice. Students learn to stay focused, develop patience, build confidence, and approach challenges with discipline. Our classes provide a structured learning environment where beginners and experienced students can continue improving their skills.
Mohiddin Syed – Shihan is the founder and Chief Instructor of Lion Budokan Karate International New Zealand. With more than 30 years of martial arts experience, he has played a central role in shaping the club’s training approach and teaching standards. Under his guidance, LBKI has grown into an established martial arts institute in Auckland, with a strong emphasis on traditional karate, consistent training, and each student’s development.
What we stand for
Our Core Values
Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct. We foster an environment of trust and integrity where every member is valued and respected.
Respect
Respect is at the heart of our Karate practice. We cultivate a culture of mutual respect, where everyone is treated with dignity, regardless of rank or experience. We value diversity and appreciate the contributions of each individual.
Our Community
A Welcoming Space to Learn, Grow, and Belong
At LBKI, we want students to feel comfortable, enjoy their training, and look forward to coming back to class. We understand that everyone learns differently. Some students pick up techniques quickly, while others need more time and practice. What matters to us is that each student has the opportunity to improve without feeling rushed.
Over the years, many families have become part of LBKI, with parents and children sometimes training alongside one another. Friendships often develop through regular classes, and our tournaments, workshops, and club events give students more opportunities to spend time together outside their usual training sessions.
We maintain a structured approach to karate while making room for individual learning needs. Our instructors take the time to guide students, recognise their progress, and encourage them through challenges. We want LBKI to be a place where students not only develop their karate skills but also feel that they belong.
Our Expertise
A Path to Progress and Purpose
At LBKI, we believe every student should clearly understand what they’re learning and what they’re working towards. Our training follows a structured syllabus, with learning milestones and a transparent grading system that helps students recognise their progress. Earning a new belt is an important achievement, but the effort, consistency, and understanding developed along the way matter just as much.
Our instructors play an important role in this process. They are regularly assessed and mentored by Shihan Syed to maintain consistent teaching standards across the club. Whether someone is attending their first karate lesson or preparing for an advanced grading, we want them to receive the guidance and attention they need.
As students progress, they also begin taking greater responsibility for their training. Some develop an interest in helping newer students, while others take on more challenging goals. These experiences can help build confidence, patience, and leadership skills that are useful at school, at work, and in everyday life.
For us, progress isn’t measured by belt colour alone. It’s also about seeing students become more capable, independent, and confident in what they do.
Explore our karate classes, events, and other training information at LBKI. Whether you are new to karate or looking to continue your training, we welcome you to come along and experience what our club has to offer.
