Welcome to Newcastle
Aikido

Full-time traditional dojo and community hub

Learn the way of harmony

The focus of Aikido is the non-violent resolution of conflict, where the underlying principle is to join with an attacker's force. Useful on and off the mat, it can lead to the reconciling of different points of view as students learn to respect others by way of mutual physical contact.

Our classes

We run beginner, intermediate and advanced classes, as well as a world-class kids’ program six days a week.

BODY ARTS

WEAPONS

AIKI KIDS

IAIDO

MISOGI

ZAZEN

SEE TIMETABLE

“The main driving motivation for doing Aikido is to develop myself mentally, physically, and spiritually on this life journey and build relationships. Training is hard, and it should be. But I feel if you can conquer some of your fears, hates, or doubts on the mat, it makes modern life a piece of cake.”

Michael, 27

Why learn Aikido?

Why learn Aikido?

Physical benefits

Aikido provides whole of person training with an emphasis of mind/body coordination, agility, flexibility and core strength.

Mental health

The combination of body arts, weapons and Zazen meditation help build resilience, perseverance, confidence and mental relaxation.

Self-defence

Increased self and situational awareness. Practical self-defence without inducing harm or lasting damage.

  • Darius Wingate-Pearse

    CHIEF INSTRUCTOR, 6TH DAN

  • Hideaki Kobayashi

    ADULTS/KIDS INSTRUCTOR, 5TH DAN

  • Pierre Gouhier

    ADULTS/WEAPONS INSTRUCTOR, 5TH DAN

  • Alison Fetscher-Smith

    IAIDO INSTRUCTOR, 3RD DAN

  • Leis Graham

    COMMUNITY & CONNECTION, 1ST DAN

Upcoming events

  • 6 Week beginners program

    Our next BECOME 6-week beginner training journey at Newcastle Aikido is beginning soon.
    This program is designed for people who want to rebuild their physical strength, sharpen mental clarity, and find a deeper sense of calm under pressure.

    Click below to learn more and see if this season is for you.

    MORE INFO

  • Kids Grading and Kyu Grading

    7TH NOV

    unior and Kyu gradings | 9am–10:30am
    Adult Kyu grading (up to 4th Kyu) | Afternoon

    All members are encouraged to come along, support those grading and be part of the day. Grading is a big part of a student's journey, and having your dojo mates there makes a difference.

    If you're planning to grade, please speak with Sensei and check the grading board hours on the dojo community board.

    MORE INFO

  • 20 YEARS OF PRACTICE

    7TH - 8TH NOV

    Saku Shin Kan Dojo turns 20.

    Join us for a two-day anniversary seminar with past and present students and teachers. Saturday includes junior and adult gradings, followed by our anniversary potluck dinner at the dojo from 6:30. Training continues Sunday.

    Whether you trained here in 2007 or started this year, come back to the mat and celebrate with us. Family and friends welcome at dinner.

    MORE INFO

“Why do I train Aikido? It’s hard to articulate because everything is expressed and understood on the mat. You can’t hide from yourself in the dojo; maybe that’s why I train… Aikido brings about a strength I struggle to find anywhere else. I feel Aikido is for people who want to know the depth of their character. People who want to really understand what it means to have resilience.”

Taylor, 30

“For everyone, but not for all”