| 87 T T Karen Phelps State-of-the-art facility a game changer The 12th Tee, a purpose-built indoor golfing facility at Taupō Golf Club, introduces world-class technology and 24-hour accessibility. COMMUNITY Robertson Golf Taupō’s golfing landscape is set for a major evolution with the opening of the 12th Tee, a purpose-built indoor golfing facility at Taupō Golf Club. Opened in December the development introduces world-class technology and 24-hour accessibility. “We’ve built something completely unique for the region,” explains founder Hamish Robertson. “There’s nothing like it anywhere nearby and we want it to become a central hub for golf in Taupō.” The project is owned by PGA professional Hamish and his brother Cameron, operating from a building owned by Taupō Golf Club. The 280sqm facility sits at the top end of the club’s car park, offering easy access for members and visitors. Inside are four state-of-the-art simulators with capacity to expand further as demand grows. Central to the experience is Trackman technology, a radar-based system measuring ball flight as golfers strike into 3.5m x 4.2m high-definition screens. “It redefines visual realism in indoor golf,” explains Hamish. “The detail is unmatched. Players can choose from around 400 courses from all over the world and feel completely immersed.” Hamish, a full-time coach through his business Robertson Golf, says the initiative fills a longstanding gap. “Rain and daylight of course restrict when I can coach so this facility will allow for coaching any time,” says Hamish. “People can come in and have a state-ofthe-art golf experience with the simulators whenever it suits them.” Club fitting is another core service. In the comfort of the indoor space, Hamish can analyse ball data and equipment performance to determine the best clubs for each player. As an ambassador for the Titleist brand and a long-established fitter, he sees significant potential to grow this side of his business. “You can have a golf professional next to you explaining differences in club selection or technique, and you can see it instantly on the screen,” says Hamish. Food and beverage services are supplied by Taupō Golf Club and available whenever the 12th Tee is staffed, operating under the club’s licence. Revenue from hospitality remains with the club, strengthening its wider operations and alignment with the new venture. The 12th Tee operates 24 hours a day for top-tier members who receive secure, aroundthe-clock access through an online booking system. During peak times the facility will be staffed while remaining fully accessible and monitored outside standard hours. Taupō Golf Club itself is already well known for offering two contrasting 18-hole courses: Centennial, a championship-length inland course, and Tauhara, a shorter layout ideal for social and corporate play. With extensive practice grounds, modern facilities, and a thriving hospitality offering, Hamish says the addition of the 12th Tee further strengthens its position as a leading golfing destination. He cites club General Manager Cliff Morgan and President Craig Orr as having been instrumental in the success of the 12th Tee. Hamish emphasises that the project is part of a broader ambition. “It’s really about making Taupō a destination for golf,” says Hamish. “It’s exciting to bring this world class technology at 12th Tee to members and encourage new golfers to give the sport a go.” “We already have amazing courses and Taupō Golf Club has a very progressive board, president and general manager. “It’s exciting to bring this world class technology at 12th Tee to members and encourage new golfers to give the sport a go. “This makes 12th Tee not only an entertainment space but a serious training environment for golfers of all abilities. It will become a hub for future PGA professionals and help grow the game in Taupō.” Laser Electrical Taupo Proud to be the Electrical Contractor for Robertson Golf • New Build, Alterations, Additions • Service & Maintenance • Home Theatre, Audio & Security • Rural Service & Maintenance • Commercial and Data installations Taupo@Laserelectrical.co.nz Residential • Commercial • Industrial Proud Supporter of Robertson Golf
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