Karl Johnson
Turf Manager FMG Stadium Waikato and Seddon Park, Hamilton
Karl started his career back in 1988 as an Apprentice Greenkeeper at the Shirley Golf Course, Christchurch.
In 1991 was made Head Greenkeeper at the Akaroa Golf, and then moved to the role of Course Superintendent in 1993 at the Lincoln Golf Club.
In 1998 NZ Cricket took a punt and employed Karl as their Turf Manager based at the High Performance Centre, Lincoln.
2003 saw him move north to Hamilton to take up his present role as Turf Manager.
Karl has had some wonderful opportunities over his 28 year career to work overseas which has included a recent 12 month sabbatical employed by Emirates Airlines building and maintaining cricket and rugby pitches in Dubai. He has work in India many times completing cricket ground work; Kuwait for football; and last year completed a project for the All Blacks in Samoa for their inaugural Test match against Manu Samoa.
Karl is married to Rachel and they have 2 sons Zach and Toby.
The family have just purchased some land outside Hamilton and are building a new home.
Karl is also a Volunteer Fire Fighter.