NZBJJF Official Statement

The New Zealand Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (NZBJJF) is committed to upholding the safety, integrity, and values of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu across New Zealand. Our responsibility is to ensure that Jiu-Jitsu is practised in a safe, respectful, and professional environment for all members of our community, especially children and young people.

For many years, the NZBJJF has maintained clear policies and standards designed to protect practitioners and preserve the credibility of our sport. These include the permanent removal of individuals who engage in behaviour that breaches our principles or places others at risk.

The following requirements apply to registered members and leadership roles within the NZBJJF:

 • Safeguarding Children Training

All black belts are required to complete recognised Safeguarding Children training when applying for certification. This training is essential for identifying, preventing, and appropriately reporting misconduct, as well as recognising professional boundaries and warning signs within an academy setting.

 • Mandatory Police Vetting

All black belts who own, manage, or are responsible for a gym or association, along with their direct assistant coaches, are required to complete Police background checks in accordance with New Zealand standards. This ensures that those entrusted with leadership and instructional roles are fit to do so.

In addition, any club, academy, or school seeking affiliation with the NZBJJF must ensure that the owner, head coach, or professor responsible formally applies for and holds the certifications outlined above. This requirement exists to provide transparency for our community and for everyone connected to the academy, including students, parents, staff, and visitors. Affiliation with the NZBJJF reflects a commitment to accountability, safety, and professional standards.

The NZBJJF strongly condemns any form of abuse, harassment, or unprofessional conduct. Such behaviour has no place in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or in sport within New Zealand. We do not tolerate actions that compromise the safety of students or damage the trust placed in our community.

In relation to the reports and testimonies raised this past weekend, the NZBJJF is treating these matters with the utmost seriousness. We are actively gathering information, monitoring developments, and will take firm and appropriate action where required.

The safety of our members and the integrity of martial arts instruction in New Zealand are non-negotiable. The NZBJJF remains committed to continually reviewing and strengthening its policies to protect our community and uphold the values of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu nationwide.

Sergio Garcia

President

New Zealand Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (NZBJJF)