The Riai Aikido Learning Centre is a permanent aikido dojo at 37/332 Great North Road in Grey Lynn, Auckland, where the mats are kept down all the time. The dojo runs classes three days a week, with separate classes for different ranks and abilities, plus regular seminars and "Aiki labs" for exploring aspects of the art. It is affiliated with Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, and the head of the Riai Aikido group is Sensei Henry Lynch, 6th Dan. The teaching staff has more than 180 years of combined experience, according to the website. Visitors are welcome to watch a class and ask questions.
Beginners can try three free lessons over two weeks, with no joining fee and no long-term contract. After that, a class costs $20, and beginners can turn up without booking. Children's classes for ages 7 to 14 run on Mondays from 5 to 6 pm during the school term, at $120 a term ($100 for siblings). Enquiries go to Liam Venter on 027 598 5266. The centre also has dojos in Wellington and Te Atatū.