“We would highly recommend Tamara from Smiling Dragon Tai Chi for any corporate or team activity as a wonderful wellness option. Our 30 team members enjoyed this unique and fun experience.  With Tamara’s clear and calm instruction this gentle movement activity was accessible to all .    It was great to get outside, get our feet on the grass and enjoy the natural surrounds. It definitely helped alleviate the after lunch slump in our conference – with everyone returning looking more relaxed, with a smile on their faces.    Due to the appeal of Tamara’s activity we are going to book in the “Breathe” experience in our office as a follow up to help staff with Mindfulness and Wellbeing.“

“They say time flies when you’re having fun, and that’s certainly been true for us!

When the boys and I started Tai Chi on 21 February 2023, everything was new, and I felt a little like a duck out of water. From the very beginning, though, the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere made us feel right at home. We never felt judged—only encouraged and supported.

As a homeschooling family, Tai Chi has become a highlight of our week. It’s not just a chance for Mum to recharge; it’s also wonderful for our physical and mental wellbeing. We’ve loved the friendships we’ve made and the opportunity to learn alongside people from different generations and backgrounds.

We are so grateful to be part of this amazing group and especially thankful to Tamara for her guidance, patience, and encouragement as we continue to learn and grow. We couldn’t recommend it more highly!”

I have been attending Tai Chi classes with Tamara for 8 yrs  now and thoroughly enjoy them. I started because I’d damaged some vertebrae in my lower spine.  The exercises have been good at keeping my spine flexible and generally pain free.

We have a good group attending and I look forward to classes each week.

“I had seen Tai chi in the parks in Hongkong and was intrigued. When Tamara started classes in Pukekohe 20 years ago I signed up and have enjoyed the benefits. The mind focus, the calmness the movements bring, and of course the socialising aspect. I am now 91 and will certainly continue tai chi. Thank you Tamara.” (2026)

“I started doing Tai Chi & Qigong with Tamara about 18 months ago, and it has significantly improved my quality of life. From improving my coordination, stamina, and flexibility to making me all round calmer and more resilient in everyday life. I genuinely enjoy coming to Smiling Dragon.”

“I started Tai Chi with a hip injury and was in so much pain I could barely manage the stairs. Within just a few sessions, my balance had improved significantly, and in time so did my flexibility and strength. Tai Chi is exactly the kind of exercise that suits me, and Tamara has a wonderful way of making every class engaging while expertly teaching the art. I would highly recommend her classes to anyone looking for a gentle, supportive way to get moving again. Thank you for getting me back up and moving – Tai Chi really is miraculous!”

“Attending Tai Chi and qigong  classes has enabled Martin and I to navigate the difficult life of the nonagenarian – the so-called frail elderly.  We have prevented falls, improved our balance and remained reasonably supple.  Tamara rings the changes and makes her classes always fresh and good fun.  She has an enormous fund of ways to integrate the exercises into daily routines.  We also enjoy the shared conversation and friendship of the group.”

“I’ve been doing these classes with our teacher Tamara Bennett for 3 years now 

• I love it!!  I always leave the class feeling refreshed and content
• She tells us what movements affect what organs
• She has a huge knowledge of all aspects
• Constantly gives us empowering, positive affirmations as we move
• Her slow, purposeful movements help us learn
• And to top that, she has soft, slow background piano music that speaks to my soul”