Rotorua's Energy Events Centre to Host Taekwondo New Zealand International Open

Rotorua is set to host the Taekwondo New Zealand Open March 19-20, 2016 at Rotorua’s Energy Events Centre.

The tournament expects to attract top-raking athletes from all over the world as they join the best New Zealand athletes. “We expect to greet more than 500 of the world’s best and more than 1000 international visitors” continued Lee. “We are currently engaged in talks with some of the best clubs from Korea, Japan, China, Australia and the USA” reminded Lee. “The open is an exceptional learning opportunity for New Zealand athletes as they interact with different cultures and techniques”. “Hosting the Open in Rotorua a great way for international visitors to find out more about New Zealand’s rich Maori Culture as well as take in some of the Tourist attractions and the region’s unique geothermal environment” said Lee.

The Open’s economic impact for the region could reach more than $12 million but the wider benefits are much broader according to Lee, “ This translates to more Kiwi kids in sport, more Kiwis involved in sport and more Kiwi winners on the world stage”. Many visitors will make the best of this opportunity and visit other regions in New Zealand.


Back row from left to right : Grand Master and club Founder Han Lee, Han Lee Student Jitend Prasad, Han Lee Student Liam Welsley, Club Director and Coach Jason Lee. Front row from left to right : Han Lee Student Nicolas Dault, Han Lee Sudent Carlo Canto. Photo courtesy of Patrick Dault

Taekwondo is one of only two martial arts included in the Olympics Games, it teaches self-discipline with a focus on technique, fitness and meditation. The open is a sanctioned event by Taekwondo New Zealand and the World Taekwondo Federation.

Lee is currently sourcing hotels, sponsors and calling out to volunteers for the Taekwondo New Zealand Open.

The announcement was made this weekend as Lee's Taekwondo Club Han Lee, competed in Taekwondo New Zealand's National Championships held at Avondale College in Auckland (pictured). an Lee students scored a triple-silver in their respective categories.