Meet Our Red Dragon Thaiboxing Team
Get to know the heart and soul of Red Dragon Thaiboxing. Our experienced coaches are dedicated to helping you achieve your fitness and fighting goals. Whether you're a beginner, seasoned fighter, or just looking to get in shape, our family-built gym environment offers the support you need.
At Red Dragon Thaiboxing, we pride ourselves on our strong sense of community. Our coaches aren't just instructors; they're mentors who are invested in your success. With years of experience, they bring a wealth of knowledge and a personalized approach to every training session.
Choosing the right coach is crucial for your progress and safety. Our Red Dragon Thaiboxing coaches stand out because of their extensive experience, dedication to fostering a supportive environment, and commitment to helping you reach your full potential. We cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced fighters.
Head Coach - Brent
At Red Dragon Thaiboxing, we pride ourselves on our strong sense of community. Our coaches aren't just instructors; they're mentors who are invested in your success. With years of experience, they bring a wealth of knowledge and a personalized approach to every training session.
We began in 2007 in Papamoa, after I found myself coaching a small group of mates training backyard-style. That’s when I realised it was time to start a proper club.
My own Muay Thai journey started back in 1990 in Palmerston North. By 1995, I was running my first club, Cobra Kickboxing, which I led for six years before relocating to Tauranga.
Now, 35 years on, I’m still here, still coaching, and still passionate about what I do. There’s nothing I love more than watching fighters grow, develop, and transform through this sport.
Assistant Coach - Neihana
Neihana, our Assistant Coach and accomplished fighter, is a WKL NZ Title Holder who proudly represented New Zealand as part of the Black Gloves Team IFMA WORLD CHAMPS
He’s an incredible inspiration to our up-and-coming fighters, constantly encouraging others to grow, push their limits, and elevate their skills.
Neihana first joined Red Dragon at just 15 years old. After taking time away to pursue rugby, he returned at 25 with the drive to train, compete, and achieve at a high level.
A true role model both inside and outside the ring.
Kids Coach - Cheyanne
Cheyenne leads our kids’ class and brings an incredible blend of experience, patience, and passion to our young fighters.
She began her own training journey at just 15–16 years old, went on to compete in two fights, and later stepped away to focus on her studies. Cheyenne is now a qualified local personal trainer who has continued to train casually over the years, keeping her skills sharp and her love for the sport strong.
She has a natural talent for working with children and is an amazing coach who creates a positive, supportive environment for every student.
We’re excited to have her stepping into the role as our Kids Coach for 2026.
Gym Mum - Shanz
Shanz plays a pivotal role in our gym, overseeing admin and accounts, managing all promotional and advertising content, and coordinating events. Alongside her work behind the scenes, she is also an active fighter—originally starting in boxing and now competing in kickboxing. As a dedicated mum of four, with two of her children also stepping into the ring, Shanz continues to lead by example, balancing family life, training, and the ongoing success of our club.
"The coaches at Red Dragon Thaiboxing are amazing! They're so supportive and knowledgeable. I've learned so much and feel like part of a family."
Jayden-Rhys