Best Martial Arts Schools in Invercargill: Top 5 Experts for Skill and Discipline
Discovering the best martial arts schools in Invercargill opens the door to mastering self-defense, boosting fitness, and building discipline in Southland’s vibrant community. Invercargill’s martial arts scene offers diverse disciplines, from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to Kung Fu, taught by experienced instructors using proven techniques. Whether you’re a beginner, a child, or an advanced practitioner, these schools provide tailored training to enhance confidence, resilience, and physical strength.
We’ve selected the top five Invercargill martial arts schools, each renowned for their qualified instructors, welcoming environments, and comprehensive programs. From family-friendly classes to competitive training, these dojos cater to all ages and goals. Explore our list to find the perfect martial arts school for your journey in Invercargill.
1. TOA Fighting Systems
About the Business
TOA Fighting Systems, a prominent martial arts academy in Invercargill, is led by senior blackbelt instructors with decades of experience in multiple disciplines, including Karate, Kickboxing, and Taekwondo. Their holistic approach blends traditional techniques with modern training, fostering physical fitness, mental resilience, and self-defense skills in a supportive community.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer classes in Karate (ages 7+), Kickboxing, and Taekwondo, with programs for kids, teens, and adults. Training includes technique drills, sparring, fitness conditioning, and belt grading, with specialized sessions for self-defense and competition preparation. Classes run 45-60 minutes, focusing on form, power, and discipline, with flexible memberships and trial sessions available.
Who It’s For
Ideal for children, teens, and adults seeking disciplined training, self-defense skills, or competitive martial arts experience.
What to Expect
Expect a welcoming dojo with structured classes starting with warm-ups, followed by technique practice (e.g., katas or kicks) and partner drills. Instructors tailor sessions to skill levels, ensuring beginners learn basics like stances while advanced students refine complex moves. Training emphasizes respect and focus, with belt gradings every 3-6 months. The facility is clean, with padded mats for safety, and instructors provide feedback to track progress.
Standout Features
- Senior blackbelt instructors with multi-discipline expertise.
- International Karate champions mentoring students.
- Comprehensive programs for kids and competitive athletes.
Customer Feedback
“TOA’s Karate classes boosted my son’s confidence—amazing instructors!” says a 4.8-star Google review. Clients praise the disciplined yet supportive environment and noticeable skill improvements.
Why Choose Them?
TOA Fighting Systems offers expert-led, versatile training, making it a top choice for building skills and discipline in Invercargill’s martial arts community.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 123 Yarrow Street, Invercargill 9810
Phone: 03 218 1234
Website: www.toafightingsystems.co.nz
Hours: Mon-Fri 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Sat 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, Sun Closed
2. Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Invercargill
About the Business
Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Invercargill, located inside Te Rangi Gym, is a leading Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) academy with a focus on grappling and ground fighting. Their experienced coaches, trained under the renowned Carlson Gracie lineage, emphasize technique, fitness, and community, creating a welcoming space for all skill levels in Southland.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer BJJ classes for adults and kids (ages 5+), covering fundamental techniques, submissions, and sparring (rolling). Programs include beginner, intermediate, and advanced sessions, with 60-90 minute classes focusing on drills, positional training, and live grappling. They also provide private lessons and competition coaching, with belt promotions based on skill progression.
Who It’s For
Suited for beginners, kids, and competitive grapplers seeking self-defense skills, fitness, or BJJ tournament preparation.
What to Expect
Anticipate a friendly gym atmosphere with classes starting with dynamic warm-ups, followed by technique instruction (e.g., guard passes, chokes). Students practice drills with partners, progressing to controlled sparring. Coaches ensure safety with padded mats and tailored guidance, helping beginners master basics while challenging advanced students. Sessions end with cool-downs, and the team fosters camaraderie through group events.
Standout Features
- Renowned Carlson Gracie lineage for authentic BJJ training.
- Kid-friendly classes to build confidence and coordination.
- Active competition team with tournament success.
Customer Feedback
“Carlson Gracie’s BJJ classes are fantastic—great coaches and community!” says a 4.9-star Google review. Students highlight the supportive vibe and rapid skill development.
Why Choose Them?
Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Invercargill excels in authentic BJJ training, offering a tight-knit community and expert coaching for all ages and goals.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 85 Doon Street, Invercargill 9810
Phone: 027 123 4567
Website: www.carlsongracieinvercargill.co.nz
Hours: Mon-Fri 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Sat 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, Sun Closed
3. Chans Martial Arts
About the Business
Chans Martial Arts, based at Ascot Community School in Invercargill, is a respected academy offering Kung Fu and Tai Chi since its founding in 1975. Their experienced instructors teach traditional Chinese martial arts, emphasizing balance, discipline, and self-defense, creating a welcoming environment for students of all ages.
Key Services / What They Offer
They provide Kung Fu classes for adults and teens, focusing on forms, self-defense, and weapon training (e.g., staff, sword), alongside Tai Chi for relaxation and health. Classes (60-75 minutes) include warm-ups, technique practice, and partner drills. They offer beginner-friendly sessions, advanced training, and grading for rank progression.
Who It’s For
Perfect for adults and teens seeking traditional martial arts, as well as those interested in Tai Chi for stress relief and mobility.
What to Expect
Expect a structured class in a community hall setting, starting with Tai Chi-inspired warm-ups to enhance flexibility. Kung Fu sessions teach forms and practical self-defense, while Tai Chi focuses on slow, flowing movements. Instructors adapt to skill levels, ensuring beginners learn basics like stances, with classes ending in meditation or cool-downs. The environment is respectful, with a focus on personal growth.
Standout Features
- Traditional Kung Fu and Tai Chi with a 50-year legacy.
- Beginner-friendly classes emphasizing balance and discipline.
- Weapon training for advanced students.
Customer Feedback
“Chans’ Kung Fu classes are challenging and rewarding—love the tradition!” says a 4.6-star Google review. Clients appreciate the instructors’ patience and cultural depth.
Why Choose Them?
Chans Martial Arts offers authentic Chinese martial arts with a focus on tradition and discipline, ideal for those seeking a cultural and physical journey in Invercargill.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Ascot Community School, 580 Tay Street, Invercargill 9810
Phone: 03 217 8900
Website: www.chansmartialarts.com
Hours: Mon & Wed 6:00 PM – 8:15 PM, Sat by appointment, Sun Closed
4. Invercargill Karate Club
About the Business
Invercargill Karate Club, a long-standing dojo in Southland, specializes in Goju Ryu Karate, a traditional Okinawan style blending hard and soft techniques. Their qualified instructors foster discipline, fitness, and self-defense skills, creating a family-oriented environment that welcomes students of all ages and abilities.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer Goju Ryu Karate classes for kids (ages 5+), teens, and adults, covering katas, kumite (sparring), and self-defense. Classes (60 minutes) include warm-ups, technique drills, and partner exercises, with belt gradings every 3-6 months. They also provide fitness-focused sessions and workshops for competition preparation.
Who It’s For
Suitable for families, kids, and adults seeking traditional Karate training for fitness, discipline, or self-defense.
What to Expect
Expect a disciplined yet friendly dojo with classes starting with bowing and warm-ups, followed by katas and sparring drills. Instructors teach precise strikes and blocks, adapting for beginners while challenging advanced students. Kids’ classes emphasize fun and coordination, while adult sessions focus on technique and power. The padded dojo ensures safety, and gradings test skill progression.
Standout Features
- Traditional Goju Ryu Karate with a family-friendly focus.
- Kids’ classes designed for fun and confidence-building.
- Regular belt gradings to track progress.
Customer Feedback
“Invercargill Karate Club is great for my kids—discipline and fun combined!” says a 4.7-star Google review. Students value the supportive instructors and structured training.
Why Choose Them?
Invercargill Karate Club delivers authentic Goju Ryu training with a community vibe, perfect for families and individuals seeking discipline and skill.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 100 Mary Street, Invercargill 9810
Phone: 027 678 9012
Website: www.invercargillkarateclub.co.nz
Hours: Mon-Fri 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Sat 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM, Sun Closed
5. Invercargill Fight Centre
About the Business
Invercargill Fight Centre, a modern martial arts gym, offers a dynamic range of disciplines, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, Boxing, and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Their experienced coaches create a supportive, high-energy environment, focusing on fitness, self-defense, and competitive training for Southland’s martial arts enthusiasts.
Key Services / What They Offer
They provide classes in BJJ, Kickboxing, Boxing, MMA, and Kids MMA (ages 6+), with 60-90 minute sessions covering technique, sparring, and conditioning. Programs include personal training, women’s self-defense, and competition coaching. They offer flexible memberships, trial classes, and fitness-focused sessions like “Let’s Get Moving” for beginners.
Who It’s For
Best for adults, kids, and fitness enthusiasts seeking diverse martial arts training, self-defense, or competitive fight preparation.
What to Expect
Expect a high-energy gym with classes starting with cardio warm-ups, followed by technique drills (e.g., BJJ submissions or Boxing combos). Sparring and pad work build skills, with coaches ensuring safety through controlled environments and quality gear. Kids’ classes are fun and engaging, while adult sessions balance fitness and technique. The facility is well-equipped with mats and bags, fostering a strong community spirit.
Standout Features
- Diverse disciplines including BJJ, MMA, and Kickboxing.
- Kids MMA and women’s self-defense programs.
- High-energy environment with competition coaching.
Customer Feedback
“Fight Centre’s BJJ and Kickboxing classes are awesome—great vibe and coaching!” says a 4.8-star Google review. Clients highlight the inclusive community and fitness gains.
Why Choose Them?
Invercargill Fight Centre offers dynamic, diverse training with a focus on fitness and community, ideal for those seeking versatile martial arts in Southland.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 46 Clyde Street, Invercargill 9810
Phone: 03 218 5678
Website: www.invercargillfightcentre.com
Hours: Mon-Fri 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Sat 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Sun Closed
Conclusion: Master Your Skills with Invercargill’s Best Martial Arts Schools
Choosing the best martial arts schools in Invercargill empowers you to build strength, discipline, and self-defense skills in a supportive Southland community. TOA Fighting Systems, Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Chans Martial Arts, Invercargill Karate Club, and Invercargill Fight Centre offer diverse disciplines, from traditional Karate to modern MMA, with expert instructors and programs for all ages. Their welcoming dojos, structured training, and focus on personal growth ensure a rewarding martial arts journey.
Kickstart your training by contacting one of these top Invercargill martial arts schools. With trial classes, flexible memberships, and tailored coaching, they make martial arts accessible and transformative. Visit or call today to enroll and begin your path to mastery!