William SmithPlanning to kick-start your martial arts journey? Be it for self-defence or fitness reasons, finding the right coaching service is a big deal.
With so many options out there, it can be confusing who to trust. There are studios offering the program you like, but too crowded. Then, there’s another one, but it’s just too expensive.
That’s why we’ve rounded up the best martial arts and coaching services in Auckland. We compared their teaching styles, talked to previous students, and evaluated the overall value for money to find the absolute.
Check out our list below to see what sets each one apart!
How much does martial arts coaching cost in Auckland?
Martial arts coaching may cost from $100 to $250 per month for a group class. One-on-one coaching is more expensive. Also, prices can vary based on how frequently you’ll attend classes.
1. GC Team Brazilian Jiu-jitsu
Address: 250 Taniwha Street, Glen Innes
Contact Details: +642109000840
Operating Hours:
- Monday, Wednesday: 6:00–7:00 AM, 12:00–1:00 PM, 4:00–9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 6:00–7:00 AM, 12:00–1:00 PM, 4:00–8:00 PM
- Thursday: 6:00–7:00 AM, 12:00–1:00 PM, 4:00–8:30 PM
- Friday: 6:00–7:00 AM, 11:59 AM–1:00 PM, 3:40–8:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00–11:30 AM
GC Team Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a reputable gym offering classes to all skill levels. They accept beginners, kids, and advanced grapplers.
One thing we like about them is that they offer different programs. For instance, they have Muay Thai, which is one of their newest additions. They also have Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for kids and beginners.
On top of that, they have professional and skilled coaches. Their Muay Thai coach is actually hosted by Tane Ngaronoa, a former K1 Kick Boxer. This is a plus for us since not all gyms have that credible coach.
We also love their gym itself. It’s clean and spacious. They have plenty of windows, which let in natural light and fresh air for a more comfortable training. The overall setup also feels welcoming and safe.
Their membership plans are also affordable, starting at $30 for one class a week. If you want to try their coaching service, you can get their trial instead. It’s also affordable for $30, composed of 5 sessions.
Their schedules fill in quickly, so make sure to secure your class right away.
Great facility and staff
“Great facilities! Always clean and well kept. Receptionist is awesome.
Beginner class has been amazing from beginning, individual warm up the team are great at breaking down moves that allow you to perform safe manner for yourself and others around. The students that attend are amazing and helpful to give you opportunities to learn and grow at your own pace.
Well done GC Team!
See you on the mat”
Ms. Piri Alisha Tu’ifua, Google Review
Develops appreciation for respect, care for others, and self-discipline
“My son has trained with the GC club since 2022, gaining invaluable skills, strength, and so much more. The club has developed my son’s appreciation for respect, care for others, and self-discipline and given him a deep sense of belonging. The highest standard of care and safety standards, with a HUGE dose of fun. Crucial lessons for life, delivered thoughtfully, carefully cascaded for efficacy, and deeply engaging. The level of care invested in each class is epic. SO GRATEFUL!”
Alia Bojilova, Google Review
2. Tukaha
Address: 29 Union Street, Auckland Central
Contact Details: +6421858851
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 6:30–8:00 AM, 7:00–9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:30 AM–2:00 PM, 6:00–9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30–8:00 AM, 10:30 AM–2:00 PM, 6:00–9:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:30 AM–2:00 PM
- Friday: 6:30–8:00 AM, 10:30 AM–2:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00–3:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM–1:00 PM
Tukaha caught our attention because of their free class. It’s a one-time free lesson, where you can see if they’ll be a great fit for you.
It’s great that they offer a free class, since most gyms do have trials (but still require payment). This is ideal for first-timers who want to see how Tukaha hold martial arts coaching.
Also, we’re glad that they accept beginners and professional training for those who have competitions. They also offer specific classes for kids and women.
Their coaches are also highly professional and accommodating. They’re very patient with beginners, with some students noting that they teach fundamentals in a very interesting way. This is important so students can build the confidence they need.
Aside from that, they have a nice facility and a well-maintained gym as well. They have a large space, with clean and quality mats. Glass walls for natural lighting and well-ventilated too.
However, note that they only offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and judo. Their programs are a bit limited if you’re looking for Muay Thai or mixed martial arts.
Welcoming environment
“Tukaha Jiu Jitsu is absolutely amazing. Pedro and the team are one big family that are super welcoming! I always feel at home training there. Give them a try!”
-Ms. Julian Minatel, Google Review
Clean gym
“Really friendly people at the gym. Was welcomed by Steve who ran the class on the day. The gym is well laid out and clean. Great training environment”
-Mr. Frank Gambale, Google Review
3. Auckland MMA
Address: 56A Ben Lomond Crescent, Pakuranga Heights
Contact Details: +6421818123
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Friday: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Auckland MMA grabbed a spot on our list because of their experienced coaches. We’re impressed that their coaches have competed internationally, which makes them a solid choice for students of all levels.
They offer mixed martial arts, kickboxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. We think that they’re a great choice for anyone who is interested in these disciplines.
They also have inclusive classes, ranging from kids to adults. So, whether you’re training for fitness or self-defence, there’s a program fitted for you.
The overall environment is motivating yet approachable. Although they have highly professional coaches, you’ll not feel intimidated by them. They coach very patiently and with care, especially kids.
In fact, many parents commend the coaches of Auckland MMA for motivating their kids. They said their kids really enjoyed their martial arts coaching and that they always look forward to going to the gym.
The gym is also spotless and great. It’s the type of place parents can feel comfortable leaving their kids. They got nice training mats, good ventilation, and plenty of space to kick and move.
For us, it’s clear that Auckland MMA is not just focused on skill development, but also aimed at creating a positive, family-friendly training environment.
The only thing to take note of is that they have very limited classes available, and they usually start at 4:00 PM in the afternoon. They’re not ideal for those looking for earlier classes.
Great environment for kids
“Best place to train by far!!
Van & Hamish have created an awesome atmosphere at the Gym. Really accommodating with what level you are at & what you want to learn.
Great environment for the Kids also. The kids program is solid!!”
Ms. Chanel Webb, Google Review
Friendly environment
“Considering this place as my second home! 💪🏼Friendly-environment, great people, and plus everything you’ll learn in Auckland MMA 🥊🤼🏼♀️ If you see my review-post, come visit and give it a go!”
Mr. Raphaelle Piosca, Google Review
4. The Shinobi Academy MMA
Address: 9/3 Brick Street, Henderson
Contact Details: +64212705082
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Friday: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
The Shinobi Academy is one of the gyms offering a variety of martial arts classes. They offer Muay Thai, mixed martial arts, and Jiu-Jitsu programs.
They have those classes that you can’t just find in any other gym. For instance, they have taekwondo and wrestling. This gives students more options to explore more options.
Additionally, they have dedicated coaches for each discipline, and these coaches are not ordinary—they’re renowned in their respective fields.
They have a mixed martial arts coach, Jahnis, who’s from the MMA gym City Kickboxing. They also have Ahmad, a black belt in taekwondo.
Their pricing is also budget-friendly, which is another plus for us. They have a 2-week trial class starting at $15 per week. If you decide to continue, their classes start at $25 per week for 2 classes.
Another thing we appreciate is that they have family discounts. They have family-friendly packages, making training together more affordable and accessible.
However, we think that they can still improve their gym as it’s not that well-lit.
Super friendly environment
“I highly recommend Shinobi. My daughter who is totally new to the sport, has build more confidence in her training sessions. She enjoy’s it so much. She looks forward to her training every week. 🙌🙏 It’s well worth it. Everyone is super friendly!”
-Ms. Agnes Asiata, Google Review
Great culture
“I’ve been training at Shinobi Academy for about four weeks now and I’m already hooked. The coaches are awesome they really know their stuff and create such a supportive, motivating environment. Whether it’s striking, grappling, wrestling or fitness and recovery they break everything down clearly and make sure you’re improving every session.
The vibe at the gym is friendly and welcoming, even for newcomers. Everyone’s there to help each other grow, and you can feel the community straight away. In just a short time, I’ve noticed my fitness, confidence, and technique improving heaps.
If you’re looking for a place to train MMA with top-level coaching and a great culture, I highly recommend Shinobi Academy.”
-Mr. Felix Ellis-Jones, Google Review
5. Shuriken NZ
Address: 115 Diana Drive, Wairau Valley
Contact Details: +64212939102
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 5:30 AM – 8:30 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Shuriken NZ is a North Shore-based gym offering mixed martial arts, kickboxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes.
Their programs are limited, but we like their cool gym. They have a very spacious facility complete with an MMA cage, boxing ring, and heavy bags. They also have 2 levels of matted floor area and separate change rooms and showers.
We’re pretty impressed with their dojo gym, and it’s one of their strengths. Great gym means students will feel more motivated to attend their classes.
On top of that, they have experienced coaches. One of them is the owner himself, Jason. Together with him are Logan and Kamm, who are also professional martial arts coaches.
We love the welcoming ambience of this gym. They take the time to get to know you before starting classes. Students and parents also shared that they have this family vibe environment here, which is great for kids.
Overall, we found Shuriken NZ a great gym. They’re a great choice if you’re located in the North Shore and looking for a safe and well-equipped space to learn martial arts.
Awesome gym
“Awesome gym with awesome staff – Currently being trained by Tai and he goes above and beyond to ensure fantastic sessions – jump on his line if you want a superb coach!!”
Mr. Rufus Adam, Google Review
Great coaches and community
“10/10 facility, 11/10 coaches, and 12/10 community.
It’s amazing what happens when structure meets passion – I had the opportunity to roll with a few guys at every level and learned something from each one of them. Can’t recommend this place enough, and I can’t recommend the craft in any way that would do it justice.
Stop reading reviews, and just show up. You will be welcomed. You will learn. And you will grow!”
Mr. Andre Santos Turnbull, Google Review
