The Martial Arts Industry Assembly (MAiA) of New Zealand met with representatives from Australian and American martial arts for the Inaugural Conference 2005. The Conference provided information and networking for heads of several national martial arts organisations.
Representatives from NZ Police, SPARC, ACC, OSH, ALAC, Optel, Beiersdorf NZ, and others provided up-to-date information and advice. MediTrain provided First Aid training on Sunday for those interested in becoming accredited through MAiA immediately.
Networking at the Conference enabled organisations to discuss areas of difficulties and successes, as well as offering on-going support toward others' efforts. The Oceania San Shu championships held in Wellington, 10 September is the first example of how MAiA is prepared to assist organisations at a practical level. The aim is to grow the existing base of martial arts in local communities.
Another result post-Conference was agreement for Memorandums of Understanding between national martial arts organisations and MAiA. These Memorandums acknowledge the need for an industry voice with Government and other agencies, and outline an understanding for consultation in the martial arts industry.
Understandably, MAiA accreditation processes are embryonic compared to those now running in other countries. A phasing-in period of two years will allow practioners to provide required documentation (in areas such as First Aid), read and agree to Codes, and receive an initial two-year accreditation. By January 2007, accreditation will involve attending an accredited course supplied by MAiA. The new accreditation will be good for three years.
Why get accredited?
- It gives local communities more confidence in the accredited martial arts club.
- Parents feel safer sending their children to a club which has an accredited instructor.
- The accreditation is recognised overseas.
Initial individual accreditation through MAiA is available by downloading the appropriate forms at www.maia.org.nz or by requesting a hard copy from The Secretary, PO Box 1626, Wellington.
National bodies should contact MAiA directly on 0800 624269 for more information.
