Nearly Two Decades of Family Fun at Combat & Fun Zone Whitianga
Sandy and Eric are the proud owners of one of the Coromandel’s most iconic holiday destinations. After 19 years of operation, Combat & Fun Zone will be refocusing on paintball only from mid-March 2026, moving to a new bookings-only system.
The journey began after a mystery weekend away on Waiheke Island, where the couple found themselves playing paintball with friends. They loved it. Sandy had worked in offices since leaving school but always felt drawn to the outdoors.
They had the land, and in classic Kiwi fashion, decided to give it a crack.
That decision grew into something special. Just out of Whitianga, their park slowly filled with activities as ideas turned into reality. Side-by-side go karts, kids quad bikes, archery tag, splat master, slug guns, and the unforgettable eight-wheel amphibious Argo ride. Wild, wonderful, and loved by everyone.
The memories are many and the legacy runs deep. Families returned year after year, and Sandy and Eric watched kids grow from laser tag into full-on combat paintball.
The screams from across the park, up the hills and through the bush during Argo rides are still talked about today. Kids famously referred to Eric as “the Argo Driver”, and even in the supermarket the couple would hear, “Look, there’s the Argo Driver!”
Over nearly two decades, Fun Zone Whitianga became a familiar and much-loved part of the community. They introduced the first Soccer Golf course in New Zealand and took pride in the gardens and native tree plantings around the park. Birthday parties were a hit, helped along by a bouncy castle originally bought for their granddaughter’s second birthday. She’s now 16. Time flies!
They also hosted public Easter egg hunts as fundraisers for local groups. Those grew so popular they eventually had to stop. There were pony rides, animals roaming the grounds, and guest favourites Eddie and Donut. It was always about creating experiences and bringing people together.
But times change, and so do family holidays. “We loved making it fun for others,” says Sandy, “but 19 years of a fun business also means 19 years of no summers for us to enjoy time with family and friends.” With pop-up businesses now offering seasonal entertainment and rising pressures around staffing, Sandy and Eric knew it was time to reassess.
The good news is there is still a solid chunk of summer ahead. Visitors and locals are encouraged to come and enjoy the full range of activities before the shift to paintball-only from mid March. “The Group Combo is a great family option at just $35 per person,” Sandy says. “And archery is something we absolutely love teaching. It’s not easy to find places offering it anymore.”
From now on Combat & Fun Zone will operate on a bookings-only system. Sandy recommends calling at least 24 hours ahead, “just in case we’re out fishing or on the golf course.”
Combat & Fun Zone has created long-lasting memories for whānau across Aotearoa and travellers from all over the world. Their glowing reviews reflect genuine hospitality, meaningful interactions, and a place that people remember fondly.
When asked how she hopes people will remember the legacy of Combat & Fun Zone, Sandy laughs. “Well, along with the bruises, I hope they leave with a smile, great photos, and everlasting memories.”
There’s still time to make a few more. Get your whānau and friends together and book a visit with Eric and Sandy.
Ph: 027 386 9663 or 0275 266 228
Words by Leonardo Magri
