About us
Here at Hall of Martial Arts Taumarunui, our focus is on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the positive impact it can have on individuals and the wider community. We provide a welcoming training environment for people in Taumarunui and surrounding areas, offering opportunities to learn, grow, and challenge themselves through Jiu-Jitsu.
Our aim is to support each student in reaching their personal goals, whether that is improving fitness, building confidence, developing Jiu-Jitsu–based self-defence skills, connecting socially, learning a new skill, or pursuing competition. Jiu-Jitsu teaches patience, problem-solving, resilience, and respect, making it a powerful tool for personal development both on and off the mats.
We believe that Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone and understand that each person’s journey is different. Our classes are structured to suit a range of ages, experience levels, and goals, and are taught in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where people from all walks of life can train together.
We are proud to offer a purpose-built Jiu-Jitsu facility in Taumarunui, particularly as part of a more isolated community, and to create access to opportunities that may not otherwise be available locally.
We invite you to be part of a friendly and supportive Jiu-Jitsu community, where everyone is encouraged to strive for continual self-improvement and growth.
MEET OUR INSTRUCTORS
Holding a Nidan (2nd Dan) black belt in Shinjokai Karate-Do, Lara began her training under Gosoku Kai Grandmaster Hanshi Te Moana Te Rupe Inuhaere and continues her journey under Kyoshi Warren Smith. Through Karate, she developed a strong foundation in discipline, respect, and resilience; values that continue to shape the way she teaches today.
In 2017, Lara stepped onto the Jiu-Jitsu mats for the first time, beginning a new chapter in her martial arts journey. Now a brown belt under Professor Tau Thompson, she has immersed herself in the art, embracing its technical depth and problem-solving nature. Her coaching reflects this, creating an environment where students feel supported to learn at their own pace while being challenged to grow.
Driven to continually improve, Lara has travelled extensively to train, attending seminars and camps alongside some of the best athletes in the world, including world champions Adele Fornarino, Mason Fowler, Yuri Simões, and Josh Saunders. These experiences have allowed her to learn directly from the highest level of the sport, bringing modern techniques, fresh perspectives, and world-class knowledge back to her students in Taumarunui.
Lara has also tested herself in competition both nationally and internationally. She earned silver at the IBJJF Asian Open Championships in Japan and silver at the ADCC Asia & Oceania Trials, competing against some of the top athletes in the region. These experiences have shaped not only her skillset, but also her mindset, reinforcing the importance of resilience, composure, and continuous growth.
At the heart of everything Lara does is her commitment to her community. Through Hall of Martial Arts Taumarunui, she is dedicated to creating opportunities for others – especially young people, to experience the benefits of martial arts. Her goal is not only to build skilled athletes, but to help shape confident, respectful, and resilient individuals who carry those lessons far beyond the mats.