About United

Founded in 1956 on the premise of "Fencing for all", we believe that anyone who wishes to take part, should be able to take part without having to spend a lot of money.

At our club we cater both to newcomers to fencing and to those with more experience.

United has been introducing fencers to the sport for over 65 years. Many of our fencers have won Canterbury, New Zealand senior, under 20 and school titles and all our fencers have enjoyed the sport and art of fencing. Parents often learn along with their children.

Membership

Club membership entitles you to take part in club nights, club competitions and have the use of club gear. Fees are to be paid to the Treasurer by the third week of March (we will send out a link to the membership form).

Beginners can sign up for a term's introductory course. If you later decide to join for the year, the termly fee counts towards your full membership.

Fencing New Zealand membership is a separate transaction, which is free for recreational fencers. (When you fill in their form, you need to select a region. We are part of Fencing Mid South.)

Termly and visitors fees are capped at the annual membership rate.

Membership Type (2026) Adults Under 18s Family
Annual $200 $100 $250
Termly (capped) $100 $40 TBC
Visitors Fees (per session) $10 $10
School Classes As advised by coach

Mission Statement

Mission

To provide access to fencing for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds through a supportive and inclusive club environment, promoting a strong community spirit based on sportsmanship and respect.

Vision

To be a leading fencing club in our region as part of a thriving ecosystem, fostering a culture of excellence where everyone feels welcomed.

Values

  • Accessibility. We believe that all people should have the opportunity to take part in our sport, regardless of age, wealth or circumstances.
  • Friendliness. We are welcoming to all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
  • Growth. We strive to provide opportunities for all members of the club to develop their skills, through the provision of high quality coaching, competitions, and support at external tournaments.
  • Community. We aim to create strong links with the local community, in particular local schools, to create opportunities for participation and grow the sport.
  • Respect. We will foster an environment that respects and values members, coaches, visitors, helpers, and everyone who is associated with the club.

About Fencing

The modern sport has three disciplines, the foil, épée, and sabre.

More about the weapons (Fencing NZ).

Safety

Modern fencing is considered a very safe sport. While we sometimes experience strained muscles and rolled ankles like in most sports, injuries from the fencing weapons are very rare. This is because of the equipment standards and safety rules in place.

At our club we are committed to operating in a safe manner at all times.

  • All club members are expected to speak up if they see anything unsafe.
  • Coaches will instruct beginners in safety principles.
  • Coaches will supervise training.
  • Club equipment is subject to regular safety checks. Personal equipment is expected to be in good condition. Our Armourer is happy to advise members about equipment.
  • We keep a first aid kit for use in the unlikely event of an accident.

Equipment

While we provide all necessary gear to get started, after a year or two we expect most people will start to purchase your own kit. Our coaches and armourer will be more than happy to advise on the detail. Starting out we suggest some of the following:

  • Glove. You can try out what we've got at the club for size. We sometimes carry a small stock for sale.
  • Bodywire. Be sure to get the correct wire for the weapon you will use in competition.
  • Chest protector (mandatory for women; advisable for men in foil and epee)
  • Groin protector (recommended for men) - get one that's good for active sports like rugby.

If you're getting serious and your budget runs higher, you can think about the rest of the kit. This can be done piecemeal.

We advise caution when buying fencing swords if there are younger siblings at home who may be tempted to have a play without realising that the safety gear is required.

Suppliers

We source equipment from around the world. Here are a selection:
  • Mainland Fencing, Wellington : the fastest option for gear that is in stock
  • PBT, Hungary : Good value, shipping to NZ is via FedEx which is fast (1 week)
  • Leon Paul, London : Innovative, high quality, sometimes expensive

Useful Links