Hunter Valley Martial Arts Centre: Building Confidence, Discipline & Strength for Kids and Adults

SPECIAL OFFER: New members signing up can take advantage of an introductory offer valued at over $250, which includes:

Two weeks of FREE training
FREE uniform
No registration fee
No lock-in contracts

This offer is valid at all locations. New members only. Terms and conditions apply.


If you’re looking for an activity that helps kids build confidence, resilience and focus while also keeping them active, martial arts is a fantastic option.

For more than 40 years, Hunter Valley Martial Arts Centre has been helping families across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter develop not just physical skills, but lifelong confidence and discipline. With multiple locations across the region and a brand new centre opening in Maryland, it’s easier than ever to get started.

Open Week: 20 – 24 April 2026

To celebrate the launch, HVMAC Maryland is hosting an open week from Sunday 20 April to Thursday 24 April. It’s the perfect chance to meet the instructors, watch a class in action and try it out before committing to anything.


About Hunter Valley Martial Arts Centre

Hunter Valley Martial Arts Centre is proud to offer traditional martial arts training that fosters self-confidence, self-discipline, and personal growth. Since 1983, their martial arts schools have been welcoming students of all age groups, providing a safe and supportive space to grow physically, mentally, and emotionally.

With locations in Warners BayRedheadGreen HillsMorissetWaratah and now in Maryland, Hunter Valley Martial Arts Centre offer martial arts training in Chitokai Karate, Okinawan weaponry, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and Hunter Fight Fit. All programs are tailored to suit the ages and skill levels of members, so you can develop your skills at your own pace. 

Guided by experienced Martial Artists, they teach proven techniques and share valuable knowledge that helps build not just skills but character. Whether you’re striving for a black belt or simply looking to improve your fitness, their programs engage the whole mind and body and prioritise your well-being every step of the way.

Their passionate instructors focus on instilling important values like respect, perseverance, and focus, ensuring every class is a stepping stone toward achieving your goals.

All instructors are NCAS Bronze level coaches and Rock and Water advanced accredited, and the ethos running through every class is summed up in the school’s own warrior’s code: “With harmony, patience, and commitment, we achieve our life’s goals.”


Programs for Every Age and Stage

One of the standout features of Hunter Valley Martial Arts Centre is how well their programs are tailored to different age groups and abilities. What sets Hunter Valley Martial Arts Centre apart from many other martial arts schools is the focus on the whole child, not just the techniques.

For younger kids

Classes start from as young as 18 months, making it a great option for early development. Programs include:

Jumping Joeys (18 months–3 years) – Warners Bay Location

Minimites (3–4 years)

Kindymites (5–6 years)

Dynamites (6–9 years)

Dragons (9–14 years)

These classes are fun, structured and designed to help kids build coordination, listening skills and confidence.

A key part of their children’s programs is the Rock and Water program, an evidence-based approach that helps kids develop resilience, emotional awareness and self-control — skills that carry over into school and everyday life.

For teens and adults

Teens and adults can train in a range of disciplines, including:

  • Chitokai Karate
  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
  • Women and Girls Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
  • Muay Thai-based fitness (Hunter Fight Fit)

These classes combine strength, fitness and technique, while also helping with focus and mental clarity.

There’s even a Wise Warriors (50+) program, making it a great option for staying active at any stage of life.


NEW: Maryland martial arts centre now open

There’s exciting news for families in the western Newcastle area. Hunter Valley Martial Arts (HVMAC) has opened a brand new full-time centre in Maryland.

The Maryland centre is a direct branch of the the Australian Chitokai headquarters, established in 1989 by Kyoshi Brian Hayes and Shihan Sandy Hayes at Warners Bay.

Sisters Mel and Anna Hayes took on the business in July 2023, and HVMAC Maryland will be the third centre they now run with their dedicated teaching team of black belt instructors.

Located at Carbine Close in Maryland, this centre brings some exciting new offerings to the table. Sensei Kelie Fisher, a senior karate instructor and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, will be leading Brazilian Jiu-Jitsuclasses for kids and adults at this location — a popular addition for families who’ve been looking for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu options close to home.

Hunter Fight Fit classes also run at Maryland, giving families plenty of variety whether they’re after traditional martial arts or a high-energy fitness format.

To celebrate the launch, HVMAC Maryland is hosting an open week from Sunday 20 April to Thursday 24 April. It’s the perfect chance to meet the instructors, watch a class in action and try it out before committing to anything.

New members signing up can take advantage of an introductory offer valued at over $250, which includes two weeks of free training, a free uniform, no registration fee and no lock-in contracts. This offer is valid at all locations.

Address: Unit 3/8 Carbine Close, Maryland NSW 2287 Phone: (02) 4956 8876

View the class schedule and book your free trial at huntermartialarts.com.au


FAQ

What age can kids start martial arts at Hunter Valley Martial Arts Centre

Hunter Valley Martial Arts Centre  welcomes children from as young as 18 months at the Warners Bay location (Jumping Joeys), with programs starting from age 3 across most centres.

Do you need any experience to join?

No experience is needed. All programs are tailored to suit different ages and skill levels, and new members are welcome to book a free introductory session before committing.

What martial arts styles does Hunter Valley Martial Arts Centre  teach?

Hunter Valley Martial Arts Centre offers Chitokai Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Okinawan weaponry and Hunter Fight Fit (Muay Thai-based fitness classes).

Where are the Hunter Valley Martial Arts Centre locations?

Warners Bay, Redhead, Green Hills, Morisset, Waratah and the new Maryland centre.

Is there a joining fee or lock-in contract?

New members can start with no registration fee and no lock-in contract. The current introductory offer also includes two weeks of free training and a free uniform.

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Since 2012, Newy with Kids has been Newcastle's most trusted family guide, built on over a decade of local knowledge. Founded by local mum Reena Bilen, our platform serves thousands of parents and carers seeking reliable information on family-friendly activities across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and the Hunter. Our content is created and regularly updated by a team of local parents who live in the region. From curated attraction guides and event listings to verified kids eat free deals and school holiday programs, we provide the local expertise families rely on for planning adventures with children of all ages.