Kei - Respectful
Shin - Heart & Soul
Kan - Place to develop these qualities
Sensei Mark Pennell started his training at a judo Dojo in Auckland as a 15 year old in 1966. During overseas service with the NZ army he met five Kei Shin Kan Japanese instructors who were visiting Singapore to promote Karate. Sensei Mark commenced training with them in 1971
At the age of 21 he attained the rank of Shod
an under Master Takazawa and was given permission to open the New Zealand Dojo
The New Zealand Kei Shin Kan Karate-Do Association was formed in 1972 by Sensei Mark. The Dojo started in Petone Central school hall but moved to a site just up the road from the present Dojo in 1973
In November 1974 Sensei Mark made the present premises at 457 High Street the permanent headquarters
In 1975 Sensei Mark competed in the World Championships in Los Angeles. He has also won the All Japan Kei Shin Kan Karate-Do Championships in Nagano, Japan 1990
Realising the lack of refereeing expertise in New Zealand he focused on developing that side of Karate
Sensei Mark Pennell became the first New Zealander to become a fully qualified World Karate Federation referee and has since presided over many World Championship finals
Kei Shin Kan is one of New Zealand's longest running Dojos and has become a leader in all respects. From small beginnings Kei Shin Kan has grown to become one of the most respected Dojos in New Zealand and has achieved respect and acknowledgement worldwide
Kei Shin Kan and Sensei Mark were the fore-runners in bringing international karate events to New Zealand
