Goju Ryu Karate's annual National Camp was held in March in Wellington at the newly renovated Victoria University Recreation Centre. New Zealand karate had another exciting weekend. Over 60 senior Instructors & students from all over the country gathered at Victoria University for the weekend of March 25th-26th for this year’s Goju Ryu Karate National Instructors training camp. With guest instructor Derek English from Hamilton and the highest ranking black belts in the country, participants were treated to a diverse and challenging camp. Derek English has studied traditional karate and weaponry in Okinawa, Japan, for 12 years and is passionate about passing on the knowledge and skills he has obtained, thus preserving the tradition of the great Okinawan weapon masters. On Sunday a black belt grading was held at the University recreation centre, and after a gruelling two and a half hour test five totally exhausted karate exponents ascended to their first and second level black belts. A great achievement applauded by the crowds that were watching their effort.