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Written By: The Kinloch Club - 11 Jun, 2025
This year marked a significant milestone at The Kinloch Club as we proudly celebrated Tom Long completing 18 years of service. As the Director of Golf and Head PGA Professional, Tom has been an integral figure at Kinloch since the club’s opening day in 2007—and he’s been shaping its spirit ever since.
Before making Kinloch his home, Tom built an impressive career blending competitive play across Europe with PGA professional positions in some of the world’s most iconic golfing destinations. However, it’s here in the heart of New Zealand where he’s truly left his mark.
Tom, with his signature self-deprecating charm, refers to himself as a “Piwi”—once a Pom, now proudly Kiwi. It’s an identity that encapsulates his blend of British humour and Kiwi warmth—one that’s endeared him to guests and colleagues alike.
Ask many who've played a round at Kinloch and they’ll tell you: Tom is The Kinloch Club. Often referred to affectionately as “Mr. Kinloch”, Tom is omnipresent—from the first warm welcome in the pro shop to the final laugh shared over a post-round drink. His commitment to hospitality and his ability to make every visitor feel at home is part of what makes Kinloch such a special experience.
Behind the scenes, Tom has helped shape Kinloch into one of New Zealand’s premier golf destinations. His work has been pivotal in maintaining the club’s standards of excellence and ensuring the guest experience reflects the high calibre of Jack Nicklaus’s signature design.
A Tom Long tradition beloved by many is his renowned pre-round briefing. More than just a rundown of yardages and wind directions, Tom’s talks are equal parts tactical guidance and entertainment. With sharp wit, encyclopaedic course knowledge, and a few well-timed jokes, he preps players to take on the formidable layout with confidence—and a smile.
Even after delivering thousands of these briefings over the years, Tom still brings p energy and enthusiasm to every single one. It’s a small detail, but one that exemplifies his consistent dedication.
While Tom may cheekily claim that “his best playing days are behind him”, his track record tells a different story. His personal bests at Kinloch remain impressive:
Though he’s more likely now to be seen fine-tuning others’ swings than chasing his own personal best, Tom’s deep golf intelligence continues to inspire both guests and team members alike.
As The Kinloch Club continues to grow and evolve, Tom’s influence remains a constant thread. His leadership, mentorship, and unwavering passion for the game have helped shape the club’s culture and elevate the guest experience year after year.
For those who’ve had the pleasure of meeting Tom, the memory often lingers far beyond the 18th hole—whether it’s a swing tip that unlocked a personal best, a shared laugh in the clubhouse, or simply a warm welcome on a chilly morning.
To Tom, from all of us: thank you for 18 unforgettable years of excellence, humour, and heart. We raise our glasses to you and look forward to many more rounds ahead.
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