Sensei Gabriel and Sensei Emily - Dedication, Legacy and Community Impact

The West Otago Karate Club has been in operation in Tapanui since 1984, when Sensei Gabriel Phillips started teaching at the 26 centre in the main street of Tapanui. He got offered to purchase and use the Scout Hall on Essex Street, where he teaches Karate and Kickboxing to this day, sharing his knowledge with any student willing to participate in this journey. Over the years, he has trained over 1,000 students.

From white belts (new students) to black belt level and above.
To get a black belt takes 4 to 9 years depending on the knowledge they possess! The club under Sensei Gabriel’s tuition has 66 black belts to date a great feat. Through his teaching, students build confidence, self esteem, respect, determination, discipline, how to look after themselves physically.
Volunteering his time and energy has been amazing.

From 2023 to 2026, Sensei Emily Hall has also offered and volunteered her time and experience in all asset’s of martial arts to help out students on their journey, which has had a profound impact on the community and
club. So a big thank you to both instructors on behalf of the committee.

Story written by West Otago Karate Club for our Volunteer Celebration Stories campaign to celebrate National Volunteer Week 2026.