SKANZ - History

Shihan Dato' James Lo

The Shotokan Karate Association of New Zealand (SKANZ) was originally established by Sensei Johnny and Tony Ling in 1991 and was originally named Sabah Karate Association (SKA) of New Zealand. At that point, the dojo was under SKA (Malaysia) supervised by the late Shihan Dato' James Lo.

With the passing away of Shihan James in the year 2000, SKANZ, still operating under the old name, Sabah Karate Association of New Zealand, became an independent Karate club. The club was made exclusive to teaching only adults who are passionate about the sports.

As the passion for Karate spread, the name Shotokan Karate Association of New Zealand (SKANZ) had been officially formed and re-established in 2005. At that point, the club opened the doors of its dojo to both children and adult who were either eager to start learning Karate or for some, wanting to master this form of martial arts. It continued to teach the Shotokan way placing emphasis on the sports aspect of Karate.

Going strong on its 16th year, SKANZ continues to be passionate in teaching the art and discipline of the “empty hands”. The passion for Karate is being passed on from the club’s senseis to its youngest white belt student. In the process, SKANZ has produced national and international Karate champions. SKANZ continues to successfully coach Karate athletes into winning many tournaments both locally and internationally.