David John Thew

Date of Birth

25th November 1965

Birthplace

Geraldine

Career

David Thew is a distinguished martial arts instructor and holistic health practitioner, specialising in Tai chi, Qigong, and Bagua Zhang. With over four decades of experience, David has dedicated his life to sharing the transformative power of these ancient practices. Certified by renowned masters and prestigious institutions, he has developed a deep understanding of martial arts techniques and principles, which he imparts through engaging and personalised instruction.

David's journey in martial arts has been marked by numerous accolades. He has competed in and won medals at various national and international competitions, including three World Championships where he secured gold and silver medals for New Zealand. His commitment to excellence and passion for teaching have earned him 24 gold and 7 silver medals in total.

Beyond competition, David has made significant contributions to the martial arts community through workshops, seminars, and public demonstrations. In 2019, he led the world’s longest Tai chi marathon, lasting over 30 hours, to raise funds for the South Canterbury Cancer Society. His exceptional achievements were recognized with inductions into the New Zealand Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 2022 and the Australasian Martial Arts Hall of Fame and World Karate Union Hall of Fame in 2023.

David's approach to teaching is characterized by his excellent communication skills, ability to inspire students, and meticulous attention to detail. Whether working with beginners or advanced practitioners, he creates customized training plans that help individuals reach their personal and martial arts goals.

Dave has pioneered bringing Tai chi into the medical system as a complementary therapy through his role working with mental health and addiction services at Timaru Kensington hospital.

Last updated: 06 Nov 2024