Our Instructors

Ben and Nellie Stallworthy








Ben is Judo Black belt with forty years 'on the mat' including twenty instructing.  Three time New Zealand  Judo Champion (-100 kg in 1998 + 100 kg in 2002 and 2004) . Although Big Judo focusses entirely on Judo (as a young man) Ben cross-trained and competed in Olympic Wrestling and Ju Jitsu. He was an early supporter of MMA and submission wrestling; organising competitions, refereeing, training with; and supporting these disciplines. An experienced self-defence instructor.

Ben has been President of the Auckland Judo Association twice.

Ben is a father, served overseas in the New Zealand Army and has a Masters Degree in Philosophy. 

Nellie is a Judo Black belt with thirty eight years 'on the mat' including lots of instructing.  New Zealand  Judo Champion twice (-72kg  in 1997- 70 in 2001) . Nellie also medalled three times at the Ocenia Judo Championships and at the Swedish Open.

She represented New Zealand at the Manchester Commonwealth Games.

She also cross-trained and has successfully competed in Ju Jitsu and submission wrestling.

Tracey Stormont 


Tracey has a Brown belt and has been playing Judo since she was six years old.  She is part of a formidable Judo dynasty. Tracey and her three sisters have all had strong competitive careers both in New Zealand and internationally.

Tracey has also trained with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and MMA clubs.

Tracey is a mum and teaches both kids and adults classes in Pukekohe. 


Geoff Thorne





Judo Blue belt with eighteen years 'on the mat'.  Geoff has competed competitively at regional and national level and has considerable coaching experience in a range of sports including Judo.

Geoff is a father, and originally trained as a chef eventually running a number of kitchens before owning his own business. He now works in freight and logistics.