Welcome to NZ ITF Taekwon-Do Centre!

Our centre is more than just a place to learn martial arts—it’s a vibrant community built on a foundation of inclusivity, support, and excellence. We take pride in fostering an environment where students of all ages and abilities feel welcome and empowered to achieve their full potential. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, our programs are designed to be both challenging and rewarding, offering a path for personal growth, discipline, and success.

Led by Ben Evans, a 6th Degree International Instructor and retired world-class athlete, our centre stands as a beacon of Taekwon-Do excellence. Ben’s illustrious career includes a gold medal in the prestigious 6th Dan Patterns category at the ITF Taekwon-Do World Cup Championships in Uzbekistan, among other significant achievements. As a world medalist in Power Breaking and Patterns, Ben brings unparalleled expertise and passion to his teaching. He has trained with the DPR Korea National Team, attended elite workshops with ITF Technical Director Grand Master Hwang Ho Yong, and honed advanced techniques in Russia, learning from systems that have produced numerous international champions.

Our NZ ITF organisation is proudly affiliated with the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF), whose headquarters have been situated in Vienna, Austria since the 1980s. This affiliation reflects our adherence to the vision and principles established by the Founder of Taekwon-Do, General Choi Hong Hi. NZ ITF is officially recognized by the ITF, with our Recognition Plaque number: 7875.

NZ ITF began as Hawkes Bay ITF in 2006 when Ben Evans initiated classes for special needs students at Havelock North High School. After leaving school in 2008, Ben expanded his teaching to include more schools and evening classes, leading to a surge in popularity. By 2014, the organization rebranded as NZ ITF, reflecting its growth beyond the Hawkes Bay region into Auckland, the Manawatu area, and other parts of the country.

NZ ITF has grown to become a prominent force in both mainstream and special needs Taekwon-Do, achieving international recognition for its students’ successes at the ITF World Cup and World Championships. This success highlights the quality of instruction and the dedication of our members.

NZ ITF continues to grow steadily, with new branches and schools opening across New Zealand. We are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive community, welcoming individuals of all abilities and backgrounds to join us. We strive to uphold the core principles of Original ITF Taekwon-Do: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit.

At NZ ITF, we offer a diverse range of classes tailored to meet the needs of individuals and families, including:

• Classes for preschoolers to build coordination and confidence.
• Inclusive programs designed for students with disabilities.
• Family-friendly sessions fostering shared experiences.
• Competitive training for aspiring champions.
• Personal training sessions for those seeking one-on-one guidance.

If you’re interested in bringing the original Taekwon-Do to your school or joining NZ ITF as a club, we would love to hear from you. Join us on this exciting journey of growth, achievement, and community, and discover why NZ ITF Taekwon-Do Centre is your ultimate destination for martial arts excellence.