Field Review: Final Impact

By Paul McKay
aka Spider

Final Impact
46 Northway St
Te Rapa
Hamilton

Type of Field – Indoor

I first heard about Final Impact from my then-flatmate phrased as “did you know there was a new indoor field in hamilton?” I promptly replied “Where?”.

It was quite a while before I actually managed to get to the field and play a game there, but I did drop off and have a look and talk to the operator – Hugo.

At the first visit of the site it was obvious there was still work to be done, but the field was definitely showing promise even on the first visit within the first month of opening.

So about five or so months later I actually organised a game. The field had changed quite a bit, he had put sawdust on the concrete floor (excellent for footing and sliding) there were many more barricades which, I have been informed, are moved on a weekly basis.

The communal area out front is well lit (good for setting up gear) and has plenty of seating. Access to the toilets is easy, and he has the beginnings of a shop there as well. There is a starway leading up to an observation area where you can see the play area, all of which is screened off behind strong mesh – there is no way any paintball is getting through that netting!

Movement from the communal area to the game area is through a shipping container that houses the field markers (which are all Spyders) and thermal masks. The field breifing was givin inside before the markers were issued (very heavy discussion on saftey) and then it was out through the saftey area and onto the field.

Overall I liked the layout, I have been to quite a few commercial paintball fields in my time, and Final Impact would be one I would recommend to new players to visit for their first paintball experience. Saftey was pretty good and easy to administer – anyone that broke the rules were quickly correctedI personally found myself on the reciving end of a telling off when I wasn't paying attention!)

The games were fast, turnaround times basically depended on the players. I enjoyed myself, especially since I hadn't played for a while. I'm actually looking forward to going there again soon.

If you live in Hamilton, don't know what to do for a couple of hours, go and have a go. They cater from one to twelve players, so there is little excuse.