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28 August 2026A very special congratulations to Grand Master Mahesh Bhana on his promotion to 9th Degree.
Following an interview with the Grand Master Promotion Committee, the final part of a lengthy promotion process, Grand Master Marano has officially announced this auspicious promotion.
Grand Master Bhana is one of New Zealand’s most active senior instructors, specialising in senior Dan training and specialist sessions for students preparing for Black Belt gradings. He is also an exceptional organiser of international events, including the upcoming International Instructor Course (IIC) in March 2027, for which he is the organiser. He is widely respected by senior ITF officials for his professionalism, knowledge and expertise in organising and delivering major international events.
ITFNZ warmly congratulates Grand Master Bhana on this outstanding achievement and looks forward to the presentation of his 9th Degree certificate.
See his full profile on our Grand Masters Page
On 24 – 26 July 2026 Malaysia Taekwon-Do Federation (MTF) Perak hold the third annual Perak International Taekwon-Do Championship in IPOH Perak, Malaysia. Known as Perak International Tourism Taekwon-Do Championships (PITTC) before, this event is a cooperate between the MTF Perak (Persatuan Taekwon-Do Negeri Perak) with the Perak ministry of tourism.... READ MORE
Kia ora Grand Masters, Masters, Instructors, Seniors, Board members, and everyone who attended our ITFNZ Strategy Day, Thank you. We know everyone's time is valuable, and we genuinely appreciate the commitment shown by everyone who was in the room..
One thing became very clear throughout the day, there is a strong appetite, and a clear need, to take a fresh look at how ITFNZ is structured, how we support our clubs and members, how we use technology, and how we position ourselves for the future.
The Board will now take the time to reflect on and digest everything that was shared. We will identify the common themes, develop an action plan, and come back to you with the next steps; and of course work on the Strategic Plan for 2026 – 2031.
Thank you again for your honesty, your passion for the Art, and your willingness to contribute. While we won't always agree, every contribution helps us better understand the challenges and opportunities ahead. We encourage everyone to continue leaning into this process as we work together to shape the future of ITFNZ.
Ngā mihi nui
Fiona Parrant
Board
Chair
TKDCoaching team New Zealand at the Perak International Taekwon-Do Championship 2026
If you are on Facebook check this out
We have a team of ITFNZ members from Auckland in Malaysia at the momemnt to complete at the PERAK TAEKWON-DO Championship - with over 2000 competitors!
We have 5 competitors in the team, 2 from Glendowie (Gladys Sudyatmiko, and Kelsy Oliver) and 3 from Warrior (Liam, Harper, and Kenzie August). The team is called TKDCoaching.
This elite sparring event brings together top competitors to showcase their skills in a high-level competition and battle for the prestigious Prime League Champion title. There will be 2 of our members who will participate in The sparring league, Liam Hutomoputra August and Gladys Sabrina Dorotea Sudyatmiko.
We will update the championship results.
Best regards
Aryono Dennis Sudyatmiko
https://pitc2026.tkdperak.com/
S P O N S O R D E D B Y
Oceania Taekwon-Do Federation RevivedThe Oceania Taekwon-Do Federation (OTF) has officially entered an exciting new chapter following the recent election of its officers and the adoption of a new Constitution.
The OTF is the ITF-recognised governing body responsible for developing and supporting ITF Taekwon-Do throughout the Oceania region. While the Federation was very active for many years, its activities slowed considerably during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. We are delighted to announce that the OTF is now being revitalised, with renewed enthusiasm and a clear vision for the future.
The International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) has welcomed this revival and has congratulated the newly elected Board members on their appointments.
One of the OTF's first priorities is to help revive ITF Taekwon-Do in the Cook Islands. We plan to re-establish contact with our many friends in Rarotonga and, with their support, assist in restarting a local club.
If you have any contacts in the Cook Islands who may be able to help, we would love to hear from you.
The OTF is also seeking sponsorship partners who share our vision of expanding ITF Taekwon-Do throughout the South Pacific. Financial and strategic support will enable us to assist developing countries, provide instructor education, and create new opportunities for people across the region to experience the many benefits of Taekwon-Do.
If you or your organisation would like to support this initiative, or if you have any sponsorship leads, please contact the secretary Mr Pygott.
You can also visit the new Oceania Taekwon-Do Federation website to learn more about the organisation and its plans for the future.
Checkout the new OTF website here
Since 2020, our rules have stated that our Tournaments run in accordance with the ITF Tournament Rules. Our rules then duplicated a great deal of the ITF Rules.
This July 2026 version of the ITFNZ rules removes duplication with the ITF Tournament Rules. Our rules set out NZ specific matters such as numbers of individuals and teams allowed for per division, our weight divisions for sparring, heights for Special Technique, numbers of boards for Power etc.
As such, the ITFNZ Rules (July 2026) should be read in in conjunction with the ITF Tournament Rules.
It is important to note that there are no new rules in this 2026 update – as set out above they simply remove duplication with the ITF Tournament Rules.
NEW RULES HERE
Thanks!!
Master Grant Eccles
TAG
The International Taekwon-Do Foundation is looking for suitably qualified applicants for the role of Independent Audit and Risk Committee member. This is a voluntary role providing expert, independent advice on financial management and risk matters.
The Audit & Risk Committee comprises two board members and two Independents. The term of office is two years.
Ideally the applicants will have the following skills attributes:
This is an ideal entry opportunity for those wanting to get into sport governance.
If you are interested in this role, applications can be made to the General Manager, Karyne Ross, at gm@itkd.co.nz Please include a brief cover letter and a CV. Applications close Monday 29th June 2026.
We are pleased to begin our process of consultation and mahi on our new Strategic Plan. Importantly, this work must be developed with and for our Grand Masters, Masters, senior instructors, instructors, members, and wider ITKD community, the people who live and breathe the Art every day. We are excited to have Lisa O’Neill, renown key note speaker and business consultant, leading our strategic consultation and process.ITKD Board Updates May2026
Dear Members, Instructors, Masters and Grand Masters
The newly elected ITKD Board came together for the first time following the AGM on Sunday 17 May 2026 in Auckland. It was a positive and productive meeting, with a strong focus on welcoming new Board members, setting priorities for the year ahead, and continuing to build a strong future for our organisation and members.
As a Board, we are committed to supporting a strong, connected, and sustainable future for ITKD and the Art we all care deeply about.
We recognise and respect the enormous contribution our Grand Masters, Masters, and senior instructors have made over many decades in building ITKD into what it is today. We believe the future of ITKD must continue to reflect the values, standards, vision, and spirit of the Art that sits at the heart of our organisation.
One of our key priorities over the coming months will be beginning work on our new Strategic Plan. Importantly, we believe this work must be developed with and for our Grand Masters, Masters, senior instructors, instructors, members, and wider ITKD community, the people who live and breathe the Art every day. We are excited to have Lisa O’Neill, renown key note speaker and business consultant, leading our strategic consultation and process.
We do not want this to simply become another document that sits on a shelf. We want the process to genuinely listen to and reflect the people within our organisation, helping shape a direction that respects our foundations while ensuring ITKD remains strong, connected, and sustainable now and into the future.
We are looking forward to strengthening relationships, improving communication, and working positively together for ITKD.
The ITKD Board is:
Mrs Fiona Parrant – Chair
Fiona is a past Central Districts Regional Director, former Assistant Instructor in Levin, and recipient of the Black Belt of the Year award. Outside of ITKD, Fiona is an experienced Chief Executive and governance leader with a strong background in community leadership, strategy, and people-focused organisations.
Mrs Karen Long – Deputy Chair & Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee
Karen joined the Board in 2025 as an independent Board member and is a Chartered Accountant with over 20 years’ experience based in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Karen brings several years of governance experience from the not-for-profit, membership body, and education sectors.
Master Kane Raukura, VII Dan
Master Raukura is the Head Instructor of Dragon’s Spirit Taekwon-Do in Auckland and has been actively involved in ITKD for more than 35 years across leadership, instructional, and governance roles. A Life Member of ITKD and former National Standards and Discipline Director, he is also Deputy Principal of St Ignatius of Loyola Catholic College in Drury. Kane is our Child Protection Officer and member of the Complaints Committee.
Master Kevin Joe, VII Dan
Master Joe is the Head Instructor of Remuera Taekwon-Do in Auckland and has been actively involved in ITKD for more than 45 years across a range of leadership and service roles within the organisation. Outside of Taekwon-Do, he is the owner of a wholesale/import business.
Mr Nick Lourantos – Chair of IT Committee
Mr Lourantos has been involved in ITKD since 1992 and is currently Head Instructor of Miramar ITKD Club. A former Wellington Regional Director and former Board Chair, he has extensive organisational experience and remains actively involved in ITKD leadership and governance, chairing the IT Committee.
Mr Bjarne Morris, V Dan
Mr Morris is the Head Instructor of O Haeng Taekwon-Do Hakwon in Mt Wellington, Auckland North representative on the Complaints Resolution Committee, and serves on the Education Panel. He is self-employed, providing business and IT consulting services. With his technical background, Bjarne joins the IT Committee.
Mr Mitchell Alexander
Mitchell is an independent Board member who specialises in government relations, reputational and risk management, and strategic communications. He has extensive experience working across the media industry, the public service, and Parliament, and has a keen passion for sport and supporting ITKD into the future. He will join the Audit Risk Committee and newly formed Communication and Marketing committee.
We thank all members, instructors, volunteers, and senior leaders for the ongoing contribution you make to ITKD and look forward to working together positively moving forward.
Ngā mihi nui
Karyne Ross,
General Manager on behalf of:
Fiona Parrant, Board Chair
Email: fparrant@itkd.co.nz
Memorandum re Board Updates May2026
2026 Instructor Induction Course Report
2026 Update (Instructing) Courses Report
Final AGM Documents. Ask your instructor for a Zoom Link if you would like to attend.
Agenda AGM_2026 | Previous Minutes AGM_2025 | 2026 Proxy Voting Form
We’re looking for our next Appointed Board Member
International Taekwon-Do Foundation of New Zealand (ITFNZ) is on the lookout for someone to join our Board, and help shape what comes next.
We’re evolving, strengthening, and thinking ahead. We need someone who can bring fresh perspective, good questions, and future-focused thinking to the table.
You might be a great fit if you bring:
• Strategic thinking and big picture mindset
• Digital / IT or innovation experience
• Experience navigating or leading change
• Communications or marketing skills
Some governance experience is desirable. However, we will consider applicants without governance experience where there is strong alignment with the skills we are seeking. We welcome applications from emerging governors, including younger candidates, who bring relevant expertise, fresh thinking and a future-focused lens.
What’s involved?
• Around 2–6 hours per month
• A mix of online and in-person meetings
• Open to applicants anywhere in New Zealand
• Travel costs for in-person meetings are covered
Why join?
Interested?
Send your CV and a short cover letter to gm@itkd.co.nz
Let’s build what’s next — together.
Ngā Mihi
Karyne
Te Awamutu International Taekwon-Do celebrated its 40th anniversary on Saturday 21 March 2026.
The club was originally founded by Grand Master Davidson and is now led by Master Ian Campbell. Both instructors were present for this special session, along with Grand Master Rimmer and Masters Eccles and Mallinson.
A small team of ITFNZ members from Auckland are entering this tournament in Malaysia. Any members interested in joining them to compete at the tournament should contact Mr Dennis Sudyatmiko (dsudyatmiko@gmail.com) who will act as the co-ordinator for NZ competitors.
Master Grant Eccles
S P O N S O R D E D B Y
If that sounds like you, we’d love to meet you.
Over the past year, ITFNZ has introduced Just Go as ITKD’s new membership management system. A recent review has confirmed we have a strong foundation in place. The next step is about people — ensuring the system supports our members, strengthens our connections, and reflects the values we stand for.
We’re looking for a Just Go Project Coordinator to lead the next phase of this work. You’ll focus on improving the system’s implementation, work closely with our clubs and regions, and help restore national confidence in how membership is managed. This is a practical, hands-on role with real influence, reporting directly to the General Manager and working alongside the Board IT Committee.
This is a fixed-term contractor role (up to six months), part-time and fully remote, with some potential travel to connect with members. A full job description is available on our website: https://members.itkd.co.nz/news/
To apply, please email CV and a Cover Letter that shares:
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and we may close the role early, so we encourage you to apply at your earliest opportunity.
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