Paul Macdonald

Paul is the founder and CEO of Chess Power. His primary role is to oversee the strategic direction of the company and ensure that coaches have the tools, resources, and support they need to help students succeed.

Why do you love chess?

I find chess absolutely fascinating. To me, chess is like a painting, except there are two painters, each contributing to a masterpiece. Every move is like a brushstroke, with small finesses and subtle touches that only a keen observer will notice. The canvas is unforgiving—one mistake, and the artwork is changed forever. Layer by layer, the game builds into a final crescendo, resulting in a masterpiece unlike any other that takes its place in history.

Mostly, I love the psychology of chess. Chess is not just about playing the best move—it’s about playing your opponent. Smart players don’t just calculate tactics; they find moves that frustrate their opponent, leading to mistakes. My hero in this regard is the great World Champion, Emanuel Lasker, who was a master of playing the person behind the pieces.

When/how did you first learn to play?

I can’t recall exactly, but I believe I first learned to play chess through my brother. Thinking I was pretty good, I entered my first chess tournament at the Auckland Chess Centre at age 11—and I lost every single game! That was enough for me; I decided chess wasn’t for me and only played casually with my brother over the next eight years.

During that time, I only beat my brother once. Eventually, I had enough of losing, so at 19 years old, I joined the Auckland Chess Centre and started playing seriously. At first, I just kept showing up, losing, and learning. The more I lost, the more fascinated I became. After a year of dedicated study, I finally started winning—and I never looked back. Eventually, my rating surpassed 2000, a milestone that once seemed impossible!

Why do you enjoy working with kids?

My passion and joy is working with kids and helping them open their minds. Kids inspire me and fill me with energy, and I love seeing their creativity come to life.

The best part of coaching is watching kids learn, seeing them discover new possibilities, and witnessing their unique thought processes unfold on the board. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching a young player create their own chess masterpiece.

What are your main chess achievements?

emoji_events New Zealand Championship Major Open Winner (2014) – My proudest achievement in my chess career.

emoji_events International FIDE rating over 2000 – Placing me among the top 100 players in New Zealand.

emoji_events Defeated multiple New Zealand Champions over my 20+ years of playing competitive chess.

emoji_events Accredited Professional Chess Coach – Recognized for my expertise in teaching chess at a high level.

emoji_events FIDE Instructor (FI) – Officially certified to coach chess at an international level.

emoji_events National Arbiter – Certified to oversee and officiate chess tournaments.

emoji_events Taught over 10,000 kids how to play chess – Helping young players develop skills, confidence, and a passion for the game.

How do you think Chess helps kids? 

Chess is a wonderful tool for helping children develop focus, concentration and cognitive thinking skills amongst many other benefits. Chess also has the effect of improving Mathematics and Science results! And Chess delivers a surprising number of life skills.

I have to say I have found the best job in the world. I would love to help your child or school learn Chess and discover the benefits I have seen come through time and again.

Here are some testimonials:

22 November 2021

"Thank you for all your encouragement and support, you played a phenomenal part in keeping us all reasonably sane during this lockdown. Thank You so much."

Nicolette MacKechnie
Beachlands and Maraetai Beach School

8 September 2021

26 August 2021

"You are the most amazing, patient online teacher I have ever come across. Thank you so much for teaching our kids and shearing your knowledge."

Amy
Parent

19 December 2018

9 May 2016

"Krystal has improved a lot when compared to last year and we feel that you have had a major contribution to her success and achievements. You are an amazing coach!"

Joshwin Lal
Parent

19 April 2016

"Thank you Paul for creating so much interest in chess. Our son learns from you at Summerland Primary School. We can speak as parents and wanted to pass on our wish that you continue this course throughout the year at school. We find it amazing! Please do continue."

Shabbir Rajkotwala
Parent, Summerland Primary School

23 October 2012

"Paul Macdonald is a chess instructor who takes a “down to earth practical” approach, and he delivers informative, practical and highly engaging chess lessons.
 
He has collaborated with the school to build a superb chess program. I have seen him inspire in children a love for chess and encourage critical thinking through rigorous instruction. Paul has a genuine interest in chess, this shows when he instructs children on tactical strategies. He has the ability and desire to teach chess in a way that supports literacy and math. He is able to give feedback to the children in their lesson time, so that each week the children improve and always look forward to Chess Power.
 
Paul has an advanced understanding of the game of chess as well as strong classroom management skills. I have seen him working with Year 1 students through to Year 6 and he is able to relate to children at their own level. This has been a wonderful programme here at St Joseph School.  It has been great for the children and has improved their passion and knowledge of chess. I certainly recommend Chess Power."
 
Christine Hormann
Class Teacher/ Chess Club Co-ordinator

10 May 2012

"My son had so much fun with the class! He's super excited. I have to say that you are an incredibly good teacher, and very good with children."

A De Roux, Auckland