Business Details
43 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts Academy in Newcastle
Established in 1983, Hunter Martial Arts has been a cornerstone of martial arts education in the region for over four decades. Our academy specialises in traditional disciplines including Chitokai Karate, Okinawan weaponry, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Hunter Fight Fit, catering to students aged 18 months to adults. We integrate evidence-based methodologies like the Rock and Water program to foster confidence, resilience, and self-control in a structured environment.Our team of certified instructors, including educators and former school principals, prioritises holistic development, combining physical training with character-building values such as respect and perseverance. With locations across Warners Bay, Redhead, Green Hills, Morisset, and Waratah, we provide accessible, community-focused training that empowers individuals to achieve personal growth and self-defence proficiency.
Services
Karate
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Hunter Fight Fit
Rock and Water Program
Okinawa Kobudo
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of heritage in traditional martial arts instruction.
- Our programs integrate evidence-based Rock and Water methodology for emotional resilience.
- Instructors include certified educators and former school principals.
- Community-focused training with five accessible locations across the Hunter region.
- Specialised programs tailored for developmental needs from toddlers to adults.
What people say
Improved confidence
Disciplined approach
Patient instructors
Safe environment
Social skills growth
Services
Karate
Our Karate programs develop physical fitness, self-defence skills, and mental discipline through traditional Chitokai techniques. Students learn structured kata forms, sparring, and character-building values. Age-specific classes ensure safe progression from beginners to advanced practitioners, fostering confidence and respect in a supportive community environment.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training focuses on ground fighting techniques and submission holds. Our curriculum builds strategic thinking, physical conditioning, and self-defence capabilities. Both children and adults benefit from improved coordination, stress management, and confidence through structured belt progression systems.
Hunter Fight Fit
Hunter Fight Fit combines martial arts conditioning with high-intensity workouts to improve strength, endurance, and flexibility. This program caters to all fitness levels, using functional movements and partner drills to enhance physical performance while promoting mental resilience and stress relief.
Rock and Water Program
The Rock and Water Program develops emotional resilience through martial arts-based exercises. Designed for children and adults, it teaches conflict resolution, self-awareness, and coping strategies using trauma-informed techniques. This evidence-based approach improves social skills and mental wellbeing through physical engagement.
Okinawa Kobudo
Okinawa Kobudo instruction teaches traditional weapon techniques using nunchaku, bo staff, and sai. This discipline enhances coordination, focus, and cultural understanding while preserving historical martial arts practices. Training includes forms, partner drills, and safety protocols for advanced practitioners.
People
Brian Hayes
Master Instructor
With over 40 years in martial arts, Brian Hayes developed Australia's Rock and Water program after training with its founder. As a former Deputy Principal, he integrates educational principles into martial arts instruction, focusing on trauma-informed approaches for student development.
Kyoshi Hayes
Chief Instructor
Kyoshi Hayes leads curriculum development, combining traditional Chitokai Karate with modern educational methodologies. With decades of experience, he specialises in adapting martial arts for emotional resilience and character development across all age groups.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We offer programs for children as young as 18 months through to adults, with age-specific classes ensuring appropriate skill development.
Do you offer trial sessions?
Yes, we provide free introductory sessions at all locations, available weekday afternoons and Saturday mornings.
What martial arts styles are taught?
We teach Chitokai Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Hunter Fight Fit, and Okinawa Kobudo across our locations.
Are there family discounts available?
Yes, we offer discounted rates for multiple family members enrolling simultaneously. Contact your local centre for details.
Do you participate in competitions?
We support competition participation with regular grading events and inter-school challenges for interested students.
What safety measures are in place?
All instructors hold current Working With Children checks, with first aid trained staff at every location ensuring student safety.
Reviews (5)
Mitchell Ryan
Jan 04, 2022
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Probably the silliest thing I done and join. But a great group of people that are both passionate and personable about what they do. Really enjoyable.
Megan Lawler
Dec 12, 2021
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Recently completed a Rock and Water Course at HVMAC and was fortunate enough to have some HVMAC staff completing the course too. I was Blown away by the professionalism that these staff members showed for the entirety of the course. They made learning so much easier as their skills were put to good use. They assisted the instructor when needed, with such discipline and without hesitation and HVMAC should be so proud to be displaying such mature and dedicated staff. The equipment and venue was unreal. Thank you to Brian and staff for your kind hospitality. What a great facility.
Lexxie Couper
Mar 26, 2021
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One of the best martial arts dojo in the area, especially for kids. Very supportive. The staff are incredible and so are the Sensei.
Michael Luck
Mar 24, 2021
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Enrolling my son into Martial arts was so easy. The staff/instructors are amazing & are on hand all the time to help if you have any questions. The training seems great & the kids really seem to enjoy it.
Michael Watson
Dec 27, 2020
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Great activity to help our child grow in confidence and maturity. Staff are very friendly, approachable, and teach well to the young children. Can tell that all staff are passionate. Venue is big and clean, parking is easy to get nearby, and classes are good value for money.
