Grading
Belt System
Grading is the process used to mark a student's understanding and prove their ability to demonstrate what they have learnt. Gradings are not compulsory, but a student must complete them if they wish to advance. Kyu gradings are held, normally, twice a year at your dojo or the closest registered dojo for those who train at a satellite dojo. Just ask your instructor. Black belt, and other Dan gradings are held annually at either the North Island Training Camp or the South Island Training Camp. You must attend at least one training camp before you are eligible to sit your Shodan (1st Dan, black belt).
The following table provides a summary of the grading levels that we use. With each level there is an assumption that a student can complete any previous level, with confidence and improvement over any preceding one. What is provided here is only a guide. The time frames illustrated are dependant on each student and will vary. Remember, part of your grading is supporting your club (dojo), attending all classes, attending training camps, and practising in your own time. As you advance in grade your practice will become your own and wherever you are, you will have a dojo to train in.
| Grade | Belt | Training Time (guide only) |
| 10th Kyu | White (Ungraded) | |
| 9th Kyu | Blue  |
|
| 8th Kyu | Blue (with 1 black stripe)  |
|
| 7th Kyu | Yellow  |
|
| 6th Kyu | Yellow (with 1 black stripe)  |
|
| 5th Kyu | Green  |
|
| 4th Kyu | Green (with 1 black stripe)  |
|
| 3rd Kyu | Brown  |
|
| 2nd Kyu | Brown (with 1 black stripe)  |
|
| 1st Kyu | Brown (with 2 black stripes)  |
up to 4 years |
| Shodan (1st Dan) | Black |
5 years |
| Nidan (2nd Dan) | Black |
+2 years from previous grade |
| Sandan (3rd Dan) | Black |
+3 years from previous grade |
| Yondan (4th Dan) | Black |
+4 years from previous grade |
| Godan (5th Dan) | Black |
+5 years from previous grade |
Grading Requirements
Below is a guide to what you are expected to demonstrate at a grading. Remember that over and above what is described here a student must also show spirit, stamina, focus, and power with all techniques. Remember our mission statement and always up hold the dojo kun.
| 9th Kyu | You must be able to demonstrate stances, blocks and strikes. Have an understanding of dojo etiquette, where to stand (line-up) and warm-up exercises. |
| 8th Kyu | All parts of 9th Kyu plus; moving basics and one step sparring. |
| 7th Kyu | All parts of 8th Kyu plus; Gekisai Dai Ichi (first kata). |
| 6th Kyu | All parts of 7th Kyu plus; Gekisai Dai Ichi bunkai (min. 4 of) and Gekisai Dai Ni (second kata). |
| 5th Kyu | All parts of 6th Kyu plus; Gekisai Dai Ni bunkai (min. 4 of) and Saifa (third kata). |
| 4th Kyu | All parts of 5th Kyu plus; Saifa bunkai (min. 4 of). |
| 3rd Kyu | All parts of 4th Kyu plus; Saifa bunkai (min. 6 of) and Seiyunchin. |
| 2nd Kyu | All parts of 3rd Kyu plus; Seiyunchin bunkai (min. 4 of). |
| 1st Kyu | All parts of 2nd Kyu plus; Seiyunchin bunkai (min. 6 of) and Shisochin. |
| 1st Dan (Black Belt) | All parts of 1st Kyu plus; Shisochin bunkai (min. 6 of), two man kata (Gekisai), Ju Kumite, and Sanchin. |
Kyu Grading Assessment (Check Sheet)
This is a useful sheet used by our instructor's to track and assess a student's progress through the grading process. Feel free to download and use at your next grading.
Dan Grading Application (Registration)
When your instructor has indicated that you are eligible for a Dan grade, then you must complete the Goju Ryu Karate Do New Zealand Dan Registration Form. You can download a copy of this form below.
"Black belts are white belts that never gave up"