KOFUKAN KARATE
By Sensei Rebecca Dobson
Instructors
Meet our dedicated instructors, whose passion for traditional karate and commitment to student development help create a positive and inspiring training environment. With years of experience in karate instruction and competition, our instructors is dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential, whether their goal is personal growth, fitness, self-defence, or competitive success. Through expert guidance, encouragement, and a strong emphasis on respect and discipline, our instructors helps every student grow both on and off the dojo floor.
Sensei Rebecca Dobson
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3rd Dan Kofukan Shito-Ryu Karate-do
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2nd Dan Zendo Kai International
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2nd Dan JKF Goju Kai
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WKF Certified Kumite Coach
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WKF Certified Kata Coach
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WKF Guardian Girls Instructor
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Oceania Representative Commonwealth Karate Federation
Sensei Rebecca Dobson has dedicated more than 20 years to karate and is passionate about developing athletes and growing the sport. She is the first female coach in New Zealand to achieve WKF certification in both Kumite and Kata coaching and is currently the only WKF-qualified Guardian Girls Instructor in New Zealand (https://guardiangirls.org/karate). She serves as the Oceania Representative for the Commonwealth Karate Federation and is the current General Secretary of Karate New Zealand. Known for her supportive and inclusive approach, Sensei Rebecca is committed to helping students of all ages and abilities reach their potential while enjoying their karate journey.
Senpai Brandon Morkane
Senpai Melissa Dunn
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2nd Dan Black Belt
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New Zealand National Karate Athlete
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Represented New Zealand for 12 Consecutive Years
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Oceania U21 Kata Champion
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Highest Medal Winner at the 2022 Commonwealth Karate Championships (6 Medals)
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Top 10 World Ranking in U21 Kata and U21 -68kg Kumite
Senpai Melissa began her karate journey at the age of five, shortly after Sensei Rebecca established Kofukan Christchurch. As the first student to progress from white belt to black belt under Sensei Rebecca’s instruction, she has grown alongside the club and become one of its most accomplished athletes and leaders. Melissa represented New Zealand on the National Karate Team for 12 consecutive years, competing at Junior World, Oceania, and Commonwealth Championships in both Kata and Kumite. Her achievements include becoming the Oceania U21 Kata Champion, earning six medals at the 2022 Commonwealth Karate Championships as the event’s highest medal winner, and achieving a Top 10 World Ranking in both U21 Kata and U21 -68kg Kumite. Today, Melissa is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with the next generation of karateka, helping students develop confidence, technical excellence, and a lifelong love of karate.
Senpai Britney Aldridge
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2nd Dan Black Belt
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New Zealand National Karate Athlete (Since 2014)
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WKF World Championships Representative (2019 & 2025)
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WKGF World Championships Representative (2015 & 2017)
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Commonwealth Championships Medalist
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Oceania Championships Medalist
Senpai Britney has dedicated over 23 years to karate training and has proudly represented New Zealand as a member of the National Karate Team since 2014. Throughout her competitive career, she has competed on the international stage at the WKF World Championships in 2019 and 2025, as well as the WKGF World Championships in 2015 and 2017. Her achievements also include medal-winning performances at both the Commonwealth and Oceania Championships, reflecting her commitment, skill, and excellence in karate.
Drawing on her extensive experience as an athlete and coach, Senpai Britney is passionate about helping students develop their skills, confidence, and character through karate. She believes that karate is about more than competition success—it provides valuable life lessons in discipline, resilience, respect, and self-belief.
Known for her positive attitude and supportive coaching style, Senpai Britney creates an encouraging environment where students of all ages and abilities can thrive. She is dedicated to helping each student challenge themselves, celebrate their progress, and discover their full potential both inside and outside the dojo.
Senpai Reo Takeuchi
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2nd Dan Black Belt – Shotokan Karate
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New Zealand National Karate Athlete
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New Zealand Senior World Championships Representative (2025)
Senpai Reo has been training in karate since the age of seven and has dedicated himself to the pursuit of excellence both on and off the dojo floor. As a member of the New Zealand National Karate Team for the past four years, he has represented his country at national and international competitions. His selection as a New Zealand representative for the 2025 Senior World Championships reflects his commitment, discipline, and achievements in the sport. Through his experience and passion for karate, Senpai Reo inspires students to strive for their personal best and embrace the values of respect, perseverance, and continuous improvement.