Big boys (and girls) playing at the game of war

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 13, 26 August 1986, Page 18

Big boys (and girls) playing at the game of war

War has broken out in the Waimarino! Thankfully it's just war games, although it's a game that some take deadly seriously. TAG - Tactical Assault Games, was introduced to New Zealand around 18 months ago. Paul Jeffries, a black belt from the Zen Do Kai karate club in Auckland, heard of the immense popularity of the game in America and set up his own centre. From the Auckland area sprang several centres, including the Taihape branch. Taihape has had war games for the last six months, and they have proved to be extremely popular.

Jim Genet, one of the organisers, set up his business on a privately-owned property in Ohakune to promote the game in the Waimarino. A miniature battle field, with forts and obstacles, is set up on eight acres of land. The players have the option of playing in teams, numbering around 10, or as individuals. Players are fitted out with a gas-powered pump action pistol and holster, and thirty rounds of pellets. The pellets contain harmless vegetable dye that is easily washed out of clothing. T AG is similar to another, known as the "Ultimate Game", the difference being that tAG war games are more organised in format and safety rules are strictly adhered to. Each player is made to wear a full face mask to prevent injury, although the force of the pellet is only that of a tennis ball. All of the equipment for the game is imported from the United States, the pistols costing around $250 each. Jim Genet is hopeful that

support for the game will mean its continuation into summer, and hopes that it may become a permanent fixture. He described the game as "cowboys and indians for big kids", but admitted that some people take it for real. "Centres like Wellington and Auckland have profe-

sional teams, people who take the game seriously," he said. TAG war games have a flawless accident record, with no mishaps occurring in their 18-month history. TAG war games are not just for men. The topteamin Taihape has four women competitors.