Defender

Defender Combatives is a Waihi Beach, New Zealand, provider of practical self-protection and Krav Maga training for adults and teenagers aged 15 and over. Its approach combines personal security skills with physical self-defence, helping participants recognize potential threats, avoid or de-escalate conflict, escape danger, and respond when confrontation cannot be avoided. Training focuses on practical techniques for real-world situations rather than competition, alongside awareness, threat recognition, and managing conflict.

Classes introduce skills such as striking, safe falling, and defending against common attacks, with students gradually learning to perform under stress. Sessions are designed to be welcoming, fun, and challenging, and participants can train at their own level as their fitness develops. Those who wish to continue can work through a structured progression of ten levels.

Instructor Shaun O’Leary brings experience across several martial arts, security work, and teaching, including a fifth dan black belt in Shorinjiryu Karate and a background in judo competition.