Reality Based Self Defence NZ

24/03/2026

**Official Notice**

We are deeply saddened to acknowledge the passing of Mr Blair Martin of United ITF Combat & Traditional Taekwon Do Schools.

Mr Martin was a respected leader, Instructor and a valued part of both the wider Taekwon-Do and martial arts community for many years. His journey from student to building a successful organisation was a testament to his dedication, passion and commitment to others.

His influence on the lives of his students and the community will be lasting and his absence will be felt for years to come.

Our thoughts and condolences are with his partner Kylee, children family, friends and all those he inspired including the Stevenson family.

Rest easy Sir. Your legacy will live on for generations.

05/03/2026

RBSDNZ whānau and wider martial arts family

It is with deep sadness that we share the loss of one of our own.

Our brother Mr. Noah Lee Tietjens was a valued member of our martial arts family - a ICHF Cane Instructor and a dedicated student preparing to test for his Black Belt in Combat Hapkido. He trained with heart, humility, commitment and he would have been celebrating his birthday 05.03.26.

Tragically, Noah lost his life while serving the United States Army in Kuwait and his sacrifice will never be forgotten.

We ask our RBSDNZ community, friends, fellow martial artists and families to please keep Noah’s family in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

A college fund has been established for his son. If you feel moved to contribute, you can do so here:
Dylan Tietjens Education Fund
https://gofund.me/bbd5d9f07

Our heartfelt love and prayers go out to his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Ngā mihi mō tō mahi nui.
Whakatā te hōia, moe mai rā i runga i te rangimārie.
Your watch may be over, but your legacy remains.

Rest in peace brother.

We are heartbroken to share the loss of our brother, Sergeant First Class Noah Lee Tietjens, who tragically lost his life while serving our country in Kuwait.

To us, he was Mr. Noah, a devoted husband and father, a respected Black Belt in Philippine Combatives and Taekwondo, and an instructor who gave his time, discipline, and leadership to others.

Noah lived the martial arts code and he carried that same character as a soldier.

He did not simply wear a Black Belt… he lived it.
He led with integrity.
He trained with purpose.
He taught with humility.

On the mat, he trained as a martial artist.
In uniform, he served as a soldier.

In both roles, he carried the same values: honor, discipline, service, and commitment to others.

His impact on our students, our instructors, our academy, and everyone he crossed paths with will endure far beyond this moment.

We will honor him the way disciplined people do - martial artists, soldiers, and leaders - by continuing to live the standard he carried.

Mr. Noah Lee Tietjens… your legacy remains on this mat and it lives on beyond these walls, in the world you served.

For those who have asked how they may support the family, a college fund has been established for his son Dylan in lieu of flowers.

Dylan Tietjens Education Fund
https://gofund.me/bbd5d9f07

Keep the Tietjens family in your prayers, and please share this post so our Bellevue, Omaha, and Sarpy County community can come together - military or civilian, parent or spouse, friend or neighbor, anyone who has ever carried loss. If you’re able, leave a few words in this thread - encouragement, comfort, or a lesson learned through grief - so the family has something to hold onto and return to again and again.

May they feel that he is remembered not only as a fallen warrior, but as ONE OF OURS. Thank you for standing with this family in unity. 💛🙏 🇺🇸

24/12/2025

Merry Christmas 🎄

As we come to the end of another year, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for being part of our wider community - whether you are training with us, supporting from the sidelines, or following our journey.

To our students - thank you for your commitment, effort and willingness to show up, learn and grow. Your progress, resilience and respect for one another are what make our community so special.

To our parents, guardians and partners - thank you for the support you give your children, your partners and each other. Your encouragement, time and trust play a vital role in helping our students succeed both on and off the mats.

To our Instructors - thank you for your dedication and for giving up your valuable time to teach, mentor and guide. Your passion, patience and leadership are the backbone of what we do and we are deeply grateful for everything you contribute.

To our extended ICHF and RBSDNZ families, fellow martial arts schools and martial artists who follow and support our page - thank you for standing alongside us, sharing knowledge, values and mutual respect across systems and styles. The strength of the martial arts community lies in unity, growth and shared purpose.

We are incredibly proud of the community we continue to build together and the values we uphold. We wish you all a safe, restful, and joyful Christmas, and we look forward to another year of learning, growth, and connection in the New Year.

Merry Christmas, warm wishes and stay safe.
Yours in the arts
Master Susan Stevenson

23/06/2025

Our thoughts are with the brave men and women of the New Zealand Defence Force as they work alongside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, providing support to those stranded in the Middle East.

This is not about politics—this is about people. Kiwis serving far from home, doing their part with courage and professionalism in incredibly complex environments.

From all of us here at Reality Based Self Defence NZ, we stand with you. We honour your commitment and we pray for your safety. May every single one of you return home safely, soon. 🙏🏼

Kia kaha.

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) is working with Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade (MFAT) on support to those in the region.

16/02/2025

29/01/2025

🌅 Be the Mood: Sunset Hīkoi 🌿✨
Friday, February 14 | All ages welcome

Join us for a chill sunset walk through nature, where good vibes, fresh air and stunning scenery come together for the perfect evening! Whether you're looking to unwind, connect with like-minded souls, or just soak in the beauty of the sunset, this hīkoi is for you.

🌞 Breathe. Move. Connect.
📍 Location: Brentwood Street entrance of Trentham Memorial Park
🕕 Time: 5.25pm (walk starts 5.30pm-7.30pm)
🎒 What to bring: Comfy shoes, water and your best energy!

Let’s walk, talk and enjoy the magic of the evening together. 🌅💛

Who’s in? Drop a 🌿 in the comments if you’re keen! How many Black tees can we get out there.

Join us for a chill sunset hike through nature, vibing with good company and enjoying the beautiful scenery!

01/01/2025

It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the tragic loss of Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming of New Zealand Police, who passed away following a serious incident in Nelson.

Senior Sergeant Fleming dedicated 38 years of her life to front-line service, protecting and serving her community with unwavering commitment. Her leadership and dedication left an indelible mark on her colleagues, her family and the people of Nelson.

This senseless tragedy reminds us of the risks our police personnel face every day to keep us safe. Our deepest condolences go to Lyn’s family, friends and the Nelson Bays team during this incredibly difficult time. We also send our thoughts to her colleague, who remains in a serious but stable condition and to their loved ones as they navigate this challenging moment.

To all our serving and retired New Zealand Police staff, both sworn and non-sworn: thank you. Your service and sacrifice do not go unnoticed.

Rest in peace, Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming. Thank you for your service.

With respect and gratitude
Reality Based Self Defence New Zealand

24/12/2024

Master Stevenson Ma'am and Penny Clash (Student Liason) of Self Defence Upper Hutt this week assisted in the search for missing 19 year old Maia Johnston of Totara Park.
Initially both were involved in the search however 3.30am the day prior, they made decision to form a coordination centre and work from one central location rather than everyone doing their own thing. Base was located at Tōtara Park School thanks to the kindness of Principal, Joel Webby and one of the staff also joined the search.
On behalf of the ladies, they say credit went to the family and friends of Maia, searchers from Porirua, Stokes Valley, the Hutt Valley and Hamilton who worked tirelessly through the days and nights with little sleep.
The amazing public to stopped in to offer support, who brought food or drink.
The amazing residents of the Totara Park community who checked camera footage without hesitation, came out to support searchers or who popped into the school to assist.
Sandiford Print for supplying fliers.
RNZ, 1News and Stuff for the media coverage and support.
Land Search and Rescue Wellington for the determination despite being so short staffed.
New Zealand Police for their hard work, (shoutout to Sgt Murison) support and dedication also despite being so short staffed.

https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/537441/missing-19-year-old-maia-johnston-found-safe-after-mum-made-emotional-plea

https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/537520/how-missing-teen-maia-johnston-s-upper-hutt-rescue-unfolded

After a heart-wrenching 42 hours fearing her teenage daughter was dead, Amy Walsh has received the best Christmas present of all: "I have my girl."

17/12/2024

🎉 Congratulations Jeremy & Aleisha! 🎉

A huge shoutout to our incredible New Plymouth instructors, Jeremy and Aleisha, who are tied the knot Saturday 14 December 2024! 💍❤️

Your dedication to empowering others through self defence is truly inspiring and now you embark on this beautiful new journey together. May your marriage be filled with love, laughter and endless adventures—just like the energy and passion you bring to your classes.

Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness, support, and strength—on and off the mats. 🥂✨

With love and congratulations
Reality Based Self Defence NZ 🥂⋆.ೃ🍾࿔*:･

04/12/2024

🌟 Honouring our amazing Instructors on International Volunteers Day! 🌟

Today, on International Volunteers Day, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the incredible Instructors who dedicate their time and expertise to keep our schools thriving. Your commitment to teaching self defence, passing on invaluable skills and empowering others with knowledge is truly inspiring.

We also want to recognise the parents, guardians and partners who support our members on their journeys. Your encouragement and understanding play a vital role in helping them learn, grow and succeed.

Together, we’re building a community that’s safer, stronger and more empowered. Thank you for being part of this mission! 💪✨