Francis Karauti30 October 2024
‘Francie’ as he was fondly called was our Instructor at Miramar Club from 1984 to 1989 until our martial arts paths took us in different directions. We never lost contact and throughout the years we’d meet, reminisce, laugh and share what’s happened since we last spoke. We were lucky enough to spend about 3 hours chatting with him earlier this year. While you could see his health and body was failing him, it couldn’t diminish the passion he had for his family and martial arts. The cheeky sparkle in his eye, his laugh, and watching him light up as Martial Arts knowledge literally spilled from him.
He’ll be missed. We will always be his Students as he will always be our Instructor. Lena Walton & Ian Walton
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Tomo Shibata25 November 2023 It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of Tomo's passing. Tomo peacefully left us just after 2 am. Tomo was the Assistant Instructor or the Halswell club in Christchurch and former NZ Team member. Tomo had his first stem cell treatment on Friday. His wife Leslie and Tomo celebrated the success of his first stem cell session and he rested peacefully that night. Unfortunately, last night his situation took an unexpected turn. The support of the ITFNZ community has been greatly appreciated by his family, and has been a source of strength throughout this journey. Your kindness, compassion, and presence have made a difference. |
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Mel YatesWe are heart broken with the passing of our Mel Yates. She was the most amazing lady and a loved member of the Southern Cross Taekwon-Do Academy on Palmerston North. A huge loss to us and the extended TKD community.
Our deepest condolences to Cassie, Dan, Steve and the Yates’ extended family. From all of ITFNZ may she rest in peace  |
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Senior Grand Master Sereff |
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We are very sad to learn that Senior Grand Master C.E. Sereff has passed away. SGM Sereff was the former President of the United States Taekwon-Do Federation and a true Taekwon-Do legend, In the early 1990s he gave ITFNZ his full support and welcomed many of our groups to his camps, seminars and gradings over the years. Many of our senior instructors had a deep connection with him and was very much loved by our community. Our condolences to all his family, friends and colleagues all around the world. |
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| Tribute Video produced for Grand Master C.E.Sereff on his visit to New Zealand in 2006. |
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Mr Steve MulhollandWe are sad to learn that Mr Steve Mulholland passed away on Wednesday 27th May 2020. Steve was a key figure in ITFNZ's history in the 1980s and 90s. It all began when his children joined the Stokes Valley club (Brent was an NZ Team member and went on to become the instructor of the Paraparaumu club in 1990). Steve was one of the organisers of the Sharp International Tournament held in 1985, he was the Vice-President of ITFNZ and made a Life member in 1995. He was a great mate of Master Peter Graham in particular... (no doubt we will hear some great stories from Master Graham at future camps). Our condolences go to his wife Annette and all the family. |
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 Steve Mulholand (rear) - member of the ITFNZ Executive Committee |
Mr Padre Tairea |
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 Padre Tairea Pioneer of Taekwon-Do in New Zealand Passed away 26th July 2019 |
Steven ParrantAssistant Instructor, Levin Steve's introduction to Taekwon-Do was a familiar tale, one that started as a supportive parent, following his children and wife Fiona to countless trainings and tournaments. However, it was not long before Steve traded the sidelines and bag carrier for the do bok, immersing himself in the art he grew to love.
A true gift to our community, Steve's passion and skill lay in his ability to teach. His natural coaching talent, coupled with a heartwarming sense of humour, created an environment where students eagerly listened, learned, and flourished. Steve's classes were not just lessons in fitness and martial arts; they were moments of inspiration, laughter, and growth that benefited the students both inside and outside the dojang.
Beyond his role as an Assistant Instructor, Steve was an active member of Central Districts. He attended tournaments, seminars, and trainings with an unwavering commitment, contributing his energy and enthusiasm to the collective spirit of our Taekwon-Do family. As we remember Steve Parrant, the wisdom and lessons he imparted, the laughter he shared, and the indomitable spirit he embodied; may we all be inspired to approach our own journeys in Taekwon-Do with the same dedication, joy, and love that Steve brought to every training session and every interaction. |
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Lucy DrakeLucy started training with Silla in July 2014 and made it to 4th kup. In 2018 Lucy fell over while crossing the road outside school and was sent for a scan which revealed her cancer. After only 9 months Lucy passed away with her family by her side. Lucy was very active in Silla, winning gold at Nationals in pre-arranged sparring and was a regular podium winner at regionals. Lucy attended the Nationals Kids camp many times, always lifting those people around her up and bringing laughter to all. Taken way too soon. Lucy we will miss you very much. |
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Tribute by Master Paul McPhail
Mr Roydon Chee was one of ITFNZ's very special instructors in the early 1980s.
I had the privilege of helping Roy prepare for his 2nd degree grading, and I visited him and his club in Kaikohe on several occasions. He also trained with us in Auckland as you can see in the photos below.
Such was his amazing gift with teaching children, I asked him to bring some of his kids down to demonstrate at the Sharp International Tournament in 1985. You can see in the video below Roy carmly guiding the kids. The front two on the left are his own children Shenoa and Gemma.
Our families camped together and Roy's wife Fleur later taught our eldest son piano.
We were devastated to learn Roy had passed away.
His funeral was held at the Manukau Memorial Gardens on Friday 15th December, where Fleur and his four girls were surrounded by hundreds of family members and friends.
Mr Roydon Chee's Children's Demonstration Team
In October 2017 we lost one of the legends in ITFNZ Taekwon-Do history.
Many in the Wellington region will have known of Mr John Moran, who for many years was the instructor of the Stokes Valley TKD club - instructor of Master Rocky Rounthwaite. His senior role in the NZ Police meant that ITF Taekwon-Do was used (and still is) as a basis for the police self defence and weapons training. He was a close college of Master Evan Davidson.
Mr Moran retired from Police Sworn service in 2004, but was re-employed as a technical advisor for tactical training until he retired in 2009. In 2000 he was awarded the Queen's Service Medal (QSM) for public services, which recognised his work with police and staff safety and his Kaitiaki (guardian) status at the police college.
We are devastated to share that we have lost one of the toughest members of the South Island region on Wednesday 8th February 2017.
Mrs Pam Colee was the instructor of the Nelson club for years until she was diagnosed with cancer and subsequently had to step down from her role. Mrs Colee was a fixture and a rock with a heart of pure gold. She was camp mum, disciplinarian, friend and fierce protector of her kids, both biological and not.
Our love and condolences go out to Pam's husband Rob and her daughters Kirsty and Selina. Both of whom practiced tkd alongside their Mum in the Nelson club.
Our lives are richer for having Pam be a part of them, but now her fight is over.
It is with great sadness that we have learnt of the passing of Mr Ivor Sheldon,
4th degree who was living in Melbourne on the 31st January 2014.
Mr Sheldon was well known to many of our members, being a key member of the Wellington region in the late 80s and was one of the founding instructors of the Brooklyn club. His sister Colleen was also a black belt and very active member and photographer for our organisation.
Mr Sheldon passed away in his sleep, aged 56.
Our deepest sympathies and condolences are with the family.
Here's a message Ivor wrote to our NZ Team Hi Guys, Good luck over there. I'm sure you'll do well going on past performances. Look out for the Aussie team (all three of them). They had to pay their own way there and they won't be too financial so treat them right. A special good luck to Rye and the other Wellingtonians in the team. Hello also to Lozzy, Ian, Gray and Barbs. |
Our Hearts
Those we love remain with us
for love itself lives on
Cherished memories never fade
because one loved is gone
Those we love can never be
more than a thought apart
For as long as there is a memory
they live on in our hearts
PATTIE, Pamela Maree. On January 13th 2013 as a result of a Motor Vehicle accident near Taupo. Loved daughter and step daughter of Maria and Steve; Craig and Adele, much loved mother of Gypsy and Lily, sadly missed sister of Judy and Ian, Wendy and Tim, the late David, and loved aunty of Nathan, Brook, Peri, Danielle, and Michaela. Aged 28 years. A service to celebrate Pamela's life will be held at the Founders Chapel of Remembrance, Rickit Street, Taupo tomorrow (Thursday) at 2.30pm to be followed by family burial service at Ngakuru Cemetery at 11.00am on Friday.
Pamela will be lying in state from 3.00pm today at 18/1627 State Highway 5, Reporoa.
All communications please to this address. Ph 07 985 5135 Taupo Funeral Services Ltd.
BARBER, Callum Charles. Peacefully on November 14, 2012 at Totara Hospice, South Auckland, surrounded by his loving family.
Dearly loved husband and best friend of Nicki, adored and respected father of Samantha, Zin Zan and Ryan.
A service of remembrance for Callum will be held at the Manukau Memorial Gardens Crematorium Chapel, 357 Puhinui Road, Papatoetoe on Monday November 19th at 11am. In lieu of floral tributes donations to Totara Hospice South Auckland, PO Box 75-560, Manurewa, would be appreciated. All addressed envelopes will be acknowledged.
A special husband and father has left us, but will live in our hearts.
Messages to: Howick Funeral Home 35 Wellington Street, Howick Ph 534-7300
Tina-Marie Tuaineiti 7.5.97 - 17.11.10
It is with much sadness that we learn that Tina-Marie Tuaineiti passed away on the 17th November 2010.
Tina-Marie was a 5th gup at Paul M Papakura and about to test for blue belt. She was a great young talent with so much potential. It is such a tragedy that she felt she had no option other than to take her own life. Our prayers and sympathy are will the family, especially Lisa-Marie, Richard, Tee-Jay and Justyce, all members of the club.
The Tangi was held at the Papakura Marae from Thursday until Saturday 20th November. Over 50 members from Paul M Papakura attended in dobok and Master McPhail presented an embroidered blue belt to the family.
Thanks to Mr John Kendall for assisting with the correct protocols on the Marae.
Mr Dave Ballard
30.4.63 - 16.9.10
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| Shane began training at Redwoodtown Taekwon-Do Club, Blenheim in the early 1990's under the guidance of Mrs Tina Grey. Born and bred in the Marlborough district, he continued his commitment to Taekwon-Do by becoming Instructor in 2005 and sharing his knowledge and skills with students. View Video Tribute & More » |
Jack Bebbington, member of the Armore Branch in Auckland, aged 12, passed away suddenly on 26 October 2008. | Katie Powles, member of the Waiuku club in Auckland, passed away on 3rd June 2008 in a car crash |
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| Mr Gerald Joe - passed away in his sleep on 23rd July 2008. Gerald was from the stable of Mr Norman Ng, and was a contemporary of Masters McPhail, Davidson, Mike Lowe and Richard Hall. He was the instructor of the Massey University Taekwon-Do Club in the mid '70's. He was a true inspiration to all of those training Palmerston North. | Portia McPhail, daughter of Grand Master Paul McPhail, died on the 15th of April 2008, with 5 of her friends and a teacher, in a flash flood. Visit Portia's Website » |
Mr Harry Hemana - passed away on 3rd May 2005. Profile and photos here » |
Mr Mike Smith, former ITFNZ Instructor from Northland, passed away on Friday 14th Novemeber 2008.
Mr Thomas Petersen, member of the Berhampore club, passed away in Denmark on Sunday 22 May 2005 as a result of a motorcycle accident. He will be remembered fondly at Berhampore. He was known at the club as our " Mad Danish ".
Mr Stuart Overton, one of Nibun ITF's black belts, passed away 31st May 2003. He died in his sleep. Stuart was enthusiastic, cheerful and well-liked. He will be sorely missed, both for his contributions at training and his friendly, approachable manner.
Mr Dave Owens (originally of Te Awamutu) passed away Thursday June 10 2005 following a heart attack. Mr.Owens was one of Master Davidsons' original Black Belts in the early days of the Te Awamutu club along with Mr Ross Campbell. In the early days of Wai-Bop" Mr Owens, Mr Campbell and the team were a formidable force in the region, particularly in the area of sparring, of which Dave was particularly competent.
Mr David Lange, former Prime Minster of New Zaland and Patron of ITFNZ. Passed away Saturday 13 August 2005. Mr Lange became the Patron of ITFNZ in 1981. At that time he was a new MP and known to the late Mr Harry Hemana, and it was Mr Hemana who approached him to take on the position. There were many instances when Mr Lange was of great support for our organisation, most notably when the Sharp Tournament in 1985 was almost cancelled due to interference by another organisation. Mr Lange stepped in and the tournament proceeded with full television coverage. Mr Lange the Prime Minister, was awarded an honorary 4th degree black belt on the 7th of June 1985. He always had a keen interest in the what the organisation was doing and in particular kept an eye on the ITFNZ website during out World Champs Competitions. Mr Lange is the only Patron ITFNZ has had, and always appreciated his kind words of encouragement and support. Our thoughts are with his family at this time. See photos and tribute here.
Mr Philip Kiernan First Degree Black Belt passed away on Monday 21st May, 2001. Mr Trilford said "Philip was the most loyal student I have ever had, and a true friend". He died on the 1st year anniversary of grading to First Degree. Philip took his own life - he was just 20 years old.
Mr Wayne Joseph - former ITFNZ Instructor from Wellington. Wayne passed away in Australia on 16th November 2001. He was at Hapkido training, joking around as usual, when he was on the ground at first, everyone thought he was acting (he had done it before). It was only when the instructor spoke to him that they realised he was not acting. Apparently he had a massive heart attack, & knew nothing - he went the way he wanted.
Ms Suzzie Ponting - partner of former Counties Manukau Instructor Mr Arthur Atutahi, Suzzie was an awesome force behind the Mangere club and the Counties region. Fantastic organser and super nice person. Suzzie passed away on 23rd September 1999 after a spirited battle against cancer. Susie was loved by all who knew her, and will be remembered by us as a happy and enthusiastic person, whose home was often a dojang for students of the two clubs she helped run.
