Tauranga’s very own Taekwon-Do legend, Christine Young, is set to be immortalised in the New Zealand Martial Arts Hall of Fame.

The induction ceremony, taking place in Wellington on Friday, June 28, will celebrate Christine’s unparalleled contributions and dedication to the martial arts community.

Christine, a 7th dan international Master of Taekwon-Do, shattered glass ceilings in March 2020 when she became the first woman in New Zealand to achieve this rank in the Korean martial art.

Practising Taekwon-Do for more than 39 years, Christine’s list of accomplishments is long – and includes representing England at three world championship events, coaching the New Zealand team, serving as the NZ high performance director and acting as an international referee by invitation.

Despite her already illustrious career, Christine remains deeply committed to her roots, teaching seven classes a week in Tauranga and Pāpāmoa.

Her students range from eager five-year-olds to people aged above 50, all benefiting from her vast experience and nurturing approach.

“I’m incredibly humbled by this recognition,” says Christine. “Standing alongside my peers, I note we all have a lifelong passion for sharing our art with others. By nurturing our students to grow and succeed, we ourselves keep developing.”

Her enthusiasm for Taekwon-Do is infectious, lighting a path for others to follow. “Teaching brings me immense joy. The world of martial arts offers countless opportunities for personal growth, and martial arts clubs always feature as stars in local communities.”

Christine is also a firm believer in the power of martial arts to instil respect and discipline, qualities she hopes to see reflected in today’s sports heroes.

“New Zealand has always been strong in martial arts. Seeing young talent excel on the international mixed martial arts stage is thrilling, and I hope they carry the ethos of respect and discipline as they become role models.”

For Christine, martial arts are about more than just combat. “I teach you how to fight so you don’t need to fight,” she often tells her students, encapsulating her philosophy of empowerment and self-control.

Christine’s induction into the Hall of Fame not only honours her personal achievements but also highlights the vibrant and enduring spirit of martial arts in New Zealand. For more information about her work and Taekwon-Do classes, visit www.itkd.co.nz