How the belt ranking system works and what to expect from TSKF Wellington gradings.
Gradings are conducted by experienced senior black belts under the TSKF/ISKF grading system. They assess your technique, kata, and understanding of Shotokan principles at your current grade level.
Gradings are generally held twice a year by our visiting Japanese instructor, Tobita Shihan 7th Dan — although they may also be run at other times by Mark Willis Shihan, Grant Sensei, or other senior instructors as needed.
Your instructor will let you know when you are ready to grade. There is no rush — progress at a pace that suits you.
Chief Instructor: TSKF NZ Chief Instructor is Professor Shunsuke Takahashi (Takahashi Shihan), 9th Dan, based in Tokyo, Japan. He has been training New Zealanders in Shotokan Karate since 1978, and returns to New Zealand regularly for seminars and gradings.
Visiting Instructor: TSKF Japan is Satoru Tobita (Tobita Shihan), 7th Dan, based in Mito City, Japan.
Shotokan Karate uses a system of kyu (student) grades leading to dan (black belt) grades. The kyu grades count down to black belt, while dan grades count up.
Note: exact belt colours may vary slightly by organisation. Check with your instructor.
| Grade | Belt | Rank | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Kyu | White | Beginner | Starting grade for new students |
| 9th Kyu | White with black tip | Junior Student | |
| 8th Kyu | Yellow | Junior Student | |
| 7th Kyu | Orange | Junior Student | |
| 6th Kyu | Green | Junior Student | |
| 5th Kyu | Blue | Intermediate | |
| 4th Kyu | Purple | Intermediate | |
| 3rd Kyu | Brown | Senior Student | 1 stripe |
| 2nd Kyu | Brown | Senior Student | 2 stripes |
| 1st Kyu | Brown | Senior Student | 3 stripes · highest kyu grade |
| Shodan | Black | 1st Dan | First black belt — a significant milestone |
| Nidan | Black | 2nd Dan | |
| Sandan | Black | 3rd Dan | |
| Yondan + | Black | 4th Dan and above | Senior black belt grades |
TSKF Wellington participates in seminars, gradings, and competitions throughout New Zealand and internationally. Participation is encouraged for all grades.
Mar / Aug
Regular Gradings
Gradings generally held in March and August, with additional sessions run by senior instructors as needed.
April
TSKF/ISKF National Seminar & Championships — Turangi
Hosted by Mark Willis Shihan. Seminar followed by competition for attendees only. Accommodation at Turangi Junction recommended.
June
ISKF Masters Camp — Philadelphia, USA
Annual 7-day international training camp. Wellington members have attended as a team.
October
TSKF/ISKF NZ Gasshuku — Turangi
Labour Weekend. Residential event at Tongariro Junction Holiday Park. Families welcome. TSKF/ISKF NZ members only for seminar and competition.
December
TSKF Coastal Southern Seminar & Championships — New Plymouth
First weekend of December, hosted by TSKF Coastal. Includes an event dinner on Saturday evening.