Renowned karate master to visit

In what is being described as a "once in a lifetime event", Timaru is set to host a karate legend.

Gojuryu Timaru and Jundokan New Zealand has lured Okinawan goju-ryu bunkai exponent and eighth dan, Masaji Taira, to take a three-day seminar at the SBS centre in late June.

It will give karate exponents of all styles and forms a rare opportunity to train with the respected master, who rarely travels outside of Japan

Goju-ryu Timaru club member Tigana Payne said he hoped to get at least 150 people from around New Zealand to take part in the event, Taira Bunkai New Zealand 2010.

"It's pretty huge for Timaru, but also for New Zealand. Kaira is recognised as the head instructor for the Jundokan, and also worldwide he is recognised as the leading goju-ryu person."

Payne said karate exponents from different styles would also be interested in the seminar because of Taira's reputation.

"It's like Jonah Lomu playing rugby for South Canterbury in his prime."

Taira, who is in his mid-50s, will bring with him New Zealander Glenn McIlvride, who went to train in Okinawa, Japan, with Taira for three months, 18 years ago and never came back.

Payne said the event had come together after a group he was training with in Dunedin said they would like to go to Okinawa and train with Taira.

"The reality of them getting to Okinawa to train is largely non-existent, because it is expensive to do, so I thought why not spend the time and effort I normally spend to go to Okinawa to bring Taira here."

Since then, numerous Timaru club members have given time and financial support to get the seminar "off the ground".

Registrations to train with Taira for all three days are being taken at jundokannz.org.nz

- © Fairfax NZ News