Shihan Kevin Plaisted and Sensei Tim Herlihy travelled to Okinawa in November 2006. The primary focus of this visit was on advanced Matsubayashi Ryu kata and kobudo, to strengthen and consolidate technique,  with specific areas fine tuned and clarified.

Just as important was the opportunity to catch up with our friends of Kodokan Taira dojo.
This visit to Urasoe city was the 10th for Shihan Kevin who always enjoys visiting beautiful Okinawa and receiving the valuable expert tuition from both Kancho Taira 9th dan and Shihandai Higa 8th dan.
Forging long and lasting relationships within Kodokan Taira dojo and Matsubayashi Ryu Okinawa is paramount with Shihan Kevin and Sensei Tim who are dedicated and committed to preserving Matsubayashi Ryu in New Zealand.
Sensei Tim received, from Kancho Taira, a scroll of the "Kempo Hakku"  (Eight Laws of the fist) with English translations.