We are pleased to announce that the 2025 New Zealand Open and the New Zealand National Schools Karate Competitions will be held at the Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre in Christchurch on the first weekend of the upcoming school holidays.

Dates: Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th June

Venue: Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre, Christchurch

Sportdata is open for entries: Link: Please note that entries close on June 7th. Get in early to avoid disappointment.

The School's events will run alongside the 2025 New Zealand Open, the second major national Karate competition.

Key Information:

• Age Eligibility: Competitors' age is determined as of 1st January 2025.

• Event Format: Events are run by age only, with no grading by ability (for Kata) or weight (for Kumite).

• Eligibility: All participants must currently train at a registered New Zealand Karate dojo. This requirement aligns with our tournament organising committee’s health and safety practices, and follow the eligibility guidelines set by School Sport New Zealand. Link.

Registration Process:

• Registration Forms are available via Sportdata in the Downloads section or directly using this link.

• All competitors must complete and email the Registration Form to kcrawford@karatenz.org.nz no later than Friday, 13th June 2025. A reminder that athletes attending schools must have the form signed by their principal or the principal’s delegate.

• Club delegates must enter athletes via their regular club entries; however, the form allows us to track the school each athlete represents.

• Competitors will not be accepted into the school events unless the form is received by the deadline.

• Athletes who have not submitted the form will remain on the waiting list.

Important Note on School Grades:

• To compete in the Secondary Schools Cup or Championship events, athletes must be in Year 9 or above.

• Students in Years 1 to 8 must compete in the relevant age group divisions.

We look forward to seeing your school pride at this exciting national event!

Article added: Wednesday 21 May 2025