25/04/2026
Congratulations Sunny and Max O'Neil for officially passing their Shinza on April 25th 2026. Sunny and Max are now Pōneke Dojo's newest Shōdan and we couldn't be more proud of their achievements. Sunny and Max have been training with Pōneke Dojo since 2017, we've had the absolute pleasure of teaching them and watching them grow into incredibly talented karateka. Sunny and Max have been working hard for this for years now, with long days in the dojo, individual training outside of class and being a constant dedicated presence, never a complaint and always giving it their best.
We'd also like to thank Sunny and Max's parents, Dallas and Tara, and brother Nikau, for their constant support of the dojo and for always being available to support Sunny and Max's demanding dojo schedule leading up to the Shinza. Senpai Edward, Senpai Kirsty and Senpai Elliot for the many hours they've put in as Sunny and Max's self defense partners and Kata support. Shihan Chris for his guidance, instruction and constant support of the kids and the rest of our instructor team - Sensei Paul, Senpai Rob, Senpai Josh and Senpai Neneh for all your work that went into preparing for the day.
Lastly, we'd like to thank our guests HUTT VALLEY KYOKUSHIN Sensei Paul Kleer and Senpai Conor and Kyokushin Karate Mid City Porirua Sensei Hale, Sensei Sudhir and Senpai Richard for attending and supporting Pōneke Dojo. As well as Max and Sunny's friends who came in numbers to support them on their big day.
We hope to continue to watch Sunny and Max grow in their Karate and anything else they put their minds to. As friends, senpai and now fellow black belts we're incredibly lucky to call them and their family members of Pōneke Dojo. More photos and videos of the day to come shortly!