David Lynch

David Lynch introduced aikido to New Zealand in 1965 and established the first full-time dojo in 1967 in Auckland, after spending 18 months as an uchideshi (live-in student) at the Yoshinkan Dojo in Tokyo under Gozo Shioda Sensei (9^th dan).

After handing over the Yoshinkan New Zealand branch to Eddie Wong, David returned to Japan in 1972 for a further 15 years during which he trained in each of the main schools, including the Aikikai (under Kisshomaru Ueshiba Doshu) and the Ki no Kenkyu Kai (under Koichi Tohei Sensei).

He also spent a few years attending the Tendokan Dojo of Kenji Shimizu Sensei, one of Osensei's most popular ukes in the founder's last years.

David holds the following aikido ranks: 6^th Dan Yoshinkan, 3^rd Dan Aikikai, 3^rd Dan Tendokan and 2^nd Dan Ki no Kenkyu Kai.

Returning from Tokyo in 1988, David opened a purpose-built dojo behind his house in Epsom and ran this for 10 years before moving to Whitianga on the Coromandel Peninsula.

The independent Aikido Lynch Dojo still operates in Auckland has recently moved into a new full-time premises in Grey Lynn where its unique blend of the various styles of aikido is taught.

David and his wife Hisae operate a farmstay/B&B and have plans to build a new dojo in the bush on their property where aikidoka from New Zealand and abroad will be able to stay and train in beautiful natural surroundings.