BJJ Wellington — Training Body & Mind Together
TRAINING BODY
& MIND WITHIN
A UNIQUE CULTURE
Achieve self-confidence through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Whether you're a beginner or sharpening your skills, our Wellington classes offer effective technique in an environment built on respect and tradition.
About Jiu Jitsu 1st
Qualified Instructors
I'm Dave Preciado, and I began my Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training under a Carlson Gracie black belt named Rey Diogo in 2007. I trained in jiu jitsu with Rey for 6 years, even traveling to Brazil with him to train at the Carlson Gracie HQ in Copacabana in 2009. In 2013, I moved to New Zealand, where I met Vanderson Pires. Since then, I have trained under Vanderson and received my black belt from him in 2019 and Carlson Gracie Sr Blackbelt Rey Diogo rewrapped the black belt in May 2025. Jiu Jitsu 1st is an affiliation of Combat Room Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and we often host events for Jiu Jitsu in Wellington to help others improve their skills.
Modern Mat Space
Our mat space might not be as expansive as other gyms, but the quality surpasses anything you'll find elsewhere, especially for those passionate about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. We have designed a customized floating mat system with 10cm of sub-floor foam, topped with 2cm plywood and 5cm of Dollamur mats. Training in Jiu Jitsu at our facility in Wellington is a delight for your joints, making it the ideal spot for any Jitsu enthusiast!
Our Philosophy
I adhere to what was taught to me - an old school methodology rooted in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Yes - we bow to the tatami, our training partners, and our instructors - akin to a handshake in Jiu Jitsu. We wear a gi as well as no-gi during our sessions. We also say Oss, which is a respectful affirmation in the world of jitsu. I refuse to ignore tradition and those who came before us, paving the way for us to enjoy this unique martial art today. If you do not appreciate tradition, then quite frankly, this isn't the place for you.
Weekly Classes
| Day | Class | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Jiu Jitsu — Gi — All Levels | 12:30pm – 1:30pm |
| Wednesday | Jiu Jitsu — No-Gi — All Levels | 12:30pm – 1:30pm |
| Friday | Jiu Jitsu — Gi — All Levels | 12:30pm – 1:30pm |
| Saturday | Jiu Jitsu — Kids | 10:00am – 11:00am |
Kids classes coincide with school terms. Email to book.
Kids Class Term Dates 2026
Term 1
February 7 – April 4, 2026
Term 2
April 25 – July 4, 2026
Term 3
July 25 – September 26, 2026
Term 4
October 17 – December 19, 2026
Tuition
BJJ
$60 / week
Gain access to all 3 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes, enjoy open mats, and make use of gym weights. Current members have full access to Competition Prep Planning.
Casual Drop-In
$30 / class
Coming for a visit? Join us for a session and experience the art of jitsu firsthand!
Private Lessons
$100 / session
Must book in advance. Tailored to your needs — problem solve your game, sharpen positions and submissions, or go over the basics.
Kids Classes
$150 / term
10 classes per term. Mixed ages 6–15. Fun and engaging environment.
All prices in NZD. Contact us to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Students Say
Student Testimonials
“Jiu Jitsu 1st is a great, safe place to train with a knowledgeable instructor and a wonderful team of people. Everyone is encouraging and I always feel like I come away having learned something.”
Gary Major
Student
“Great space to train brazilian jiu jitsu under black belt professor Dave Preciado. A friendly and diverse group of people in a "family" atmosphere.”
Sergio Ayrosa
Student
“A great place to train and navigate into your BJJ journey. Good community and awesome coach.”
Jav MP
Student
“This club is special, lunchtime classes with an awesome group of people with a variety of backgrounds/ages/genders, many working locally in the film industry. Everyone looks after each other making training safe and super enjoyable. Dave the coach is a superb teacher and caters expertly to all levels. I love this place to bits!”
Tane Upjohn-Beatson
Student
“Nice place to train BJJ in a friendly and safe environment. The club offers gi and no gi training as well as kids class on Saturday. All levels from absolute beginner to advance and competitors are welcome. Dave is a great instructor.”
Vladimir Yordanov
Student
“I've been training with Dave for over 6 years now and have seen first hand how much he cares about creating a safe and fun environment for people of every level of skill and walk of life. At the same time he is nurturing every one of his students and pushing them to become their best in their own time. Truly great place to train!”
Lukas Niklaus
Student
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Contact Us
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Address
Unit 2 / 128 Park Road
Miramar, Wellington 6022
New Zealand
Phone
021 268 3171Hours
Mon / Wed / Fri — 12:30pm – 1:30pm
Saturday Kids — 10:00am – 11:00am