1. Family Martial Arts

Description: Wellington's premier martial arts program offering age-specific classes at three handy locations. Founded by Sean Fitzpatrick in the early 2000s, the academy focuses on building confidence, fitness, and fun in a modern, progressive, and student-focused environment. They offer a 2-week free trial for new students and cater to children of all ages with specialized programs. Website: https://familymartialarts.co.nz/

2. Wellington Judo Academy

Description: Offers judo classes for children of all ages in a safe, friendly environment with experienced coaches. Programs include Peewee Judo (4-6 years) focusing on rolling, falling techniques, and fundamental judo skills, and Kids Judo (6-13 years) teaching effective throwing and grappling skills. They offer three weekly classes, holiday programs, and competition opportunities. The first four lessons are free, and they use a unique grading system that emphasizes actual skill development rather than time-based advancement. Website: https://www.wellingtonjudo.org.nz/kids-martial-arts/

3. Wing Tsun Academy - Kung Fu Children

Description: Wellington-based martial arts class for children divided into Junior Children (5-8 years) and Senior Children (9-13 years). Classes are held on Saturdays and Thursdays at their Cuba Street location. The program is designed to promote physical and social confidence while supporting mental balance, discipline, and fitness through focused aerobic activities. Training is non-aggressive with fluid movements that are easier on joints. Particularly beneficial for children who may struggle with team sports. Website: https://wingtsunacademy.com/children-kung-fu/

4. GKR Karate Wellington

Description: Offers martial arts-based self-defense classes for kids at 16 locations across Wellington, including Johnsonville, Karori, Khandallah, Miramar, and more. Their program focuses on building a stronger mind and body, developing self-confidence, improving coordination, and fostering positive values and discipline. GKR creates a supportive 'family' environment and encourages students of all ages to join. Membership allows access to all GKR Karate venues with classes available 7 days a week. Website: https://www.gkrkarate.com/gkr-karate-classes-in-wellington/

5. Seido Karate Wellington

Description: A traditional martial art with a modern approach, offering karate classes for children from age 7 in an encouraging and supportive environment. They provide special programs for children and for children with special needs. New students receive two free lessons before enrolling, with payment options of $150 per term or $50 per month for 12 months. Classes focus on building confidence and discipline in a welcoming atmosphere where parents are encouraged to watch classes before enrolling their children. Website: https://seidowellington.co.nz/

6. Legacy Taekwon-Do

Description: A community-focused martial arts school located in Hataitai, Wellington, offering classes for children from age 7. Their junior class is designed for children aged 7-13 years, with a separate senior class for those 14 and older. Legacy Taekwon-Do emphasizes that martial arts are not about violence but about developing skills and character that can be used safely in challenging situations. They offer affordable tuition fees with family concessions, and training sessions are held every Tuesday and Thursday. Free trial classes are available. Website: https://www.sporty.co.nz/legacytkdnz

7. Shaolin Kung Fu - Children's Classes

Description: Offers Kids Kung Fu classes for children aged 6-12 years at multiple Wellington locations including Johnsonville and Newtown. Their children's classes develop technical skills and discipline while incorporating fun and games to stimulate and motivate young people. The program focuses on building meaningful friendships, improving social skills, building self-confidence, dealing with bullying, and improving fitness and coordination. Classes teach kung fu punching and kicking techniques, movement exercises, Chinese wrestling, traditional forms, and strength development in a positive, controlled learning environment. Website: https://shaolinnpc.co.nz/classes/childrens-kung-fu/

8. Spirit Taekwon-Do

Description: Teaches Taekwon-Do to children aged 7+ in Wellington's Newlands and Kelburn areas. Classes are held on Wednesdays and Fridays with specific sessions for different belt levels and age groups. Spirit Taekwon-Do focuses on developing strong morality and high self-esteem in children through disciplined training, while teaching practical self-defense, physical fitness, courtesy, integrity, perseverance, and self-control. The program is suitable for all ages, with entire families often training together in a supportive environment. Website: https://spirit.nz/

9. Khandallah ITF Taekwon-Do

Description: Offers junior Taekwon-Do classes for children in Wellington's Northern Suburbs. Classes are held twice weekly - Mondays at Cashmere Avenue School in Khandallah and Thursdays at Johnsonville Primary School. The junior class runs from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM and welcomes children of all ages and abilities. The program focuses on developing martial arts skills in a supportive group environment, with a strong community focus and emphasis on building confidence and discipline. Website: https://www.khandallahtkd.co.nz/

10. Victoria Taekwondo

Description: Provides World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) and Olympic-style Taekwondo training at an affordable price for students and families in Wellington. Their fast-paced program focuses on dynamic kicking techniques, practical self-defense, and competitive sport aspects of Taekwondo. Classes are suitable for children and teens looking to develop discipline, coordination, and confidence in a university-affiliated setting. The program offers a structured curriculum with opportunities for advancement through belt rankings. Website: https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/recreation/clubs-and-societies/directory/victoria-taekwon-do