New Zealand boasts some of the most breathtaking and challenging golf courses in the world. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top golf courses in New Zealand, as well as explore the unique golfing experiences that can be had in this beautiful country. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, New Zealand has something to offer every type of golfer, and we can’t wait to show you what’s in store.
New Zealand is known for its stunning natural beauty, adventurous activities, and unique culture. However, it’s also home to some of the most breathtaking and challenging golf courses in the world. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top golf courses in New Zealand, as well as explore the unique golfing experiences that can be had in this beautiful country. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, New Zealand has something to offer every type of golfer, and we can’t wait to show you what’s in store.
Top Golf Courses in New Zealand
New Zealand is home to some world-renowned golf courses that attract golfers from all over the globe. Here are some of the best courses to consider when planning your New Zealand golf trip:
Cape Kidnappers Golf Course
Located in Hawke’s Bay, Cape Kidnappers Golf Course is considered one of the most scenic courses in the world. Designed by American golf course architect Tom Doak, the course is perched high above the ocean, offering spectacular views of the coastline. The course is challenging, with deep bunkers and steep drops, but the views are well worth it.
Kauri Cliffs Golf Course
Kauri Cliffs Golf Course is located in Northland and was designed by David Harman. The course features stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is situated on 6,000 acres of rolling hills, native forest, and farmland. The course is challenging, with deep ravines, steep hills, and thick rough. However, the views and the beautifully manicured greens make it a must-play course for any serious golfer.
Jack’s Point Golf Course
Jack’s Point Golf Course is located in Queenstown, on the South Island of New Zealand. The course was designed by John Darby and features breathtaking views of the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu. The course is challenging, with steep elevation changes, rocky outcrops, and natural wetlands. However, the stunning scenery and the well-maintained fairways make it a truly unforgettable golfing experience.
Wairakei Golf Course
Wairakei Golf Course is located near Lake Taupo, in the central North Island of New Zealand. The course was designed by Commander John Harris and features a unique blend of parkland and links-style holes. The course is challenging, with narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and natural hazards such as streams and ponds. However, the stunning scenery and the well-manicured greens make it a must-play course for any serious golfer.
Clearwater Golf Course
Clearwater Golf Course is located in Christchurch, on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand. The course was designed by John Darby and features stunning views of the Southern Alps. The course is challenging, with narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and water hazards. However, the beautiful setting and the well-manicured greens make it a top course to play in New Zealand.
Unique Golfing Experiences in New Zealand
While New Zealand is home to some world-renowned golf courses, it’s also home to some unique and unforgettable golfing experiences. Here are some of the most unique golfing experiences to consider when planning your New Zealand golf trip:
Golfing in Queenstown with Stunning Mountain Backdrops
Queenstown is known for its stunning mountain scenery, and playing golf here is an experience unlike any other. Imagine teeing off with the snow-capped Remarkables mountain range in the background, or putting on a green overlooking Lake Wakatipu. Queenstown is home to several golf courses, including the aforementioned Jack’s Point Golf Course, which is a must-play course for any golfer visiting the area.
Playing on a Links Course Overlooking the Pacific Ocean
New Zealand’s rugged coastline and stunning ocean views make it the perfect location for links-style golf courses. One such course is Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, located just outside of Wellington. The course was designed by Alex Russell and is considered one of the best links courses in the southern hemisphere. The course overlooks the Tasman Sea and is known for its challenging winds and undulating greens.
Golfing on a Farm Course Surrounded by New Zealand’s Natural Beauty
For a truly unique golfing experience, consider playing on a farm course in New Zealand. Farm courses are located on working farms and offer a rustic, rural setting for golfers. One such course is Tara Iti Golf Club, located in Mangawhai, just north of Auckland. The course was designed by Tom Doak and features stunning views of the surrounding farmland and the Pacific Ocean.
Golfing in a Volcanic Crater
The Rotorua region of New Zealand’s North Island is known for its geothermal activity, including hot springs and bubbling mud pools. It’s also home to a unique golf course, located in the middle of a dormant volcanic crater. The Waimangu Volcanic Valley Golf Course is a nine-hole course that offers stunning views of the surrounding geothermal activity. It’s a challenging course, with steep elevation changes and narrow fairways, but the setting is unlike any other.
Golfing Events in New Zealand
New Zealand is home to several golfing events that attract golfers from all over the world. Here are some of the most popular events to consider when planning your New Zealand golf trip:
New Zealand Open
The New Zealand Open is one of the oldest and most prestigious golfing events in the country. The tournament is held annually and attracts some of the top golfers from around the world. The tournament is played on different courses around New Zealand, giving golfers the opportunity to experience some of the country’s top courses.
The BMW Golf Cup International
The BMW Golf Cup International is a series of amateur golf tournaments held around the world, including in New Zealand. The tournament is open to amateur golfers and offers the chance to compete against golfers from other countries. The New Zealand leg of the tournament is held at the Jack’s Point Golf Course in Queenstown, making it a must-play course for any golfer participating in the event.
The North Island and South Island Strokeplay Championships
The North Island and South Island Strokeplay Championships are annual golf tournaments held in New Zealand. The tournaments are open to amateur golfers and offer the chance to compete against other golfers from around the country. The tournaments are held on different courses each year, giving golfers the chance to experience some of the country’s top courses.
Tips for Golfing in New Zealand
If you’re planning a golf trip to New Zealand, here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
Best Time to Visit for Golfing
The best time to visit New Zealand for golfing is during the summer months (December to February). The weather is mild, and there’s plenty of daylight, giving golfers more time to play. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of year for golf courses, so it’s recommended to book tee times well in advance.
Packing for Your Golf Trip
When packing for your golf trip to New Zealand, be sure to pack appropriate golf attire, including golf shoes with soft spikes. Also, pack a waterproof jacket and trousers, as the weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable. It’s also a good idea to bring a high SPF sunscreen and a hat, as the New Zealand sun can be intense, especially during the summer months.
Driving and Navigating
If you plan on driving in New Zealand, keep in mind that the country drives on the left side of the road. It’s also recommended to rent a car with GPS navigation, as some of the country’s golf courses can be difficult to find.
Respect the Environment
New Zealand’s natural beauty is one of its main attractions, and it’s important to respect the environment while golfing. Be sure to follow any course rules and regulations, including staying on designated paths and not littering. It’s also recommended to avoid playing golf during times when the course is wet or muddy, as this can cause damage to the course.
Conclusion
New Zealand is a golfer’s paradise, offering a unique golfing experience unlike any other. From playing on courses with stunning mountain backdrops to teeing off on a farm course surrounded by natural beauty, there’s something for every golfer in New Zealand. With several top-rated courses and golfing events, it’s no wonder that New Zealand has become a popular destination for golfers from around the world.
