Wanganui Judo

Wanganui Judo Club is a long-established community judo club in Whanganui, founded in 1954. Based at the Whanganui Martial Arts Centre on Wicksteed Street, the club welcomes men and women from age six onward, with classes for beginners through advanced judoka. Its mission is to promote courage, respect and self-control through judo, creating a friendly, supportive environment for learning and personal development.

Junior classes, for ages 6–15, teach safe falling, throwing, grappling and control-hold techniques. Senior classes, for ages 15 and older, help members develop judo skills and self-defence, improve fitness and relieve stress. Sessions take place on Mondays and Wednesdays, with juniors training from 5:30 to 6:30 pm and seniors from 6:30 to 8:00 pm; junior classes pause during school holidays. Experienced instructors, including senior Sensei Wayne Watson, guide members across skill levels. Prospective students can try their first week free and meet the instructors and club community before deciding whether judo is right for them.