The name of our Dojo is Buken Kan; this name was given to us by Kaicho Amor and represents the Warrior grasping the Dojo Kun and Guiding Principles and applying them to his/her life.

The Buken Kan Dojo was started in Oct 1996, under the names Bell Block Karate (juniors) and Ryukyu Kempo New Plymouth (Adults);

The initial purpose of starting the school was to continue to teach and learn after starting my martial arts path in 1985.

Throughout my martial arts training I have learnt and experienced the traditions and philosophies, and have created my own philosophies and applications of martial theory.

I strongly believe in the code of the Samurai and how it relates to todays society, from the viewpoint of standing firm on ones principles but adapting to suit a more harmonious life with those around.

Using my martial arts in all aspects of my life has allowed me to reach the goals I set. Karate training allows me to focus on what is required to attain levels I set for myself, through commitment and determination. I believe in myself and what I can attain.

Through regular physical, mental, spiritual and emotional training today's martial artist is formed, with the ability to defend his herself from the pressures of modern life. Enabling self-improvement so we can attain peace and harmony in body, mind and spirit to continuously evaluate and analyze all of life's events.

I have walked a few paths in my search for knowledge, in my research of Ryukyu Kempo I started with Master Ian Waite who lead me to Grandmaster George Dillman and then to Grandmasters Rick Moneymaker and Tom Muncy.

My continued search lead me to the United Ryukyu Kempo Alliance, through my great friend, and fellow Kiwi martial artist, Marty Rickard. I joined the URKA in June 2005 and my entire school followed in January 2006. We teach only the URKA syllabus and all our Yudansha have been grade certified by Amor Kaicho.

-Renshi Scott Richardson