Masterton Judo and Ju Jitsu Academy has a new home after Masterton Trust Lands Trust (MTLT) helped it to relocate at short notice.
The academy had to move from the previous Body Rock gym in Queen Street to make way for renovation and repurposing of that building. MTLT quickly responded to an approach from the academy and assisted them with their move into Nga Totara, the former Scout Hall on Ngaumutawa Road.
Academy head coach Simon Ogden said it was a huge relief when MTLT offered them use of the Trustowned building as a ‘dojo’ (place of learning) for their classes.
“If the Trust hadn’t come to our aid we would have had to close or settle for a spot that is co-utilised, which would have meant constantly having to set up and pack up our special mats and equipment.”
Mr Ogden said the Nga Totara Hall is the ideal space for the academy, which has been running in Masterton for almost 10 years.
“We were incredibly excited when we saw the building as it’s perfect for our classes. It looks like the building was only ever intended as a dojo space.”
Mr Ogden said MTLT had been a huge help during the moving process.
“The Trust has been amazing – extremely supportive and accommodating. We couldn’t have asked for a better entity to work with as they have been immensely helpful.”
MTLT is providing the academy with a concessional rent grant for use of the hall. Mr Ogden said the grant will allow the academy to make their classes accessible and affordable for local judo enthusiasts.
“We were blown away by the generosity of the MTLT concessional rent grant as it will allow us to continue to be a financially viable sport choice for children in Masterton. By keeping costs low, we keep the dojo accessible to all, regardless of their income level,” he said.
“Having the support of an organisation like MTLT is essential to minority sports like judo and martial arts like ju jitsu. Their backing really makes a difference for our members.”
MTLT chairperson Leanne Southey said the Trust was happy to assist the academy into its new premises.
“It’s great to see the hall continue to be used to provide learning opportunities and enjoyment for local young people.”
MTLT provides concessional rent grants to a range of organisations that operate from its community owned properties including Aratoi, Harlequin Theatre, Access Radio Wairarapa, Masterton Food Bank, Millennium Reserve, ConArt, Te Pātukituki, Young Citizens Club, Wairarapa REAP and Wairarapa
College’s farm.