Best Golf Courses in New Zealand

Did you know New Zealand has 396 golf courses? This is the second-most per capita worldwide. Over the last 25 years, it has become a top golfing destination.

New Zealand’s golf scene is a mix of top-notch play and stunning views. You’ll find courses by the sea and in the mountains. It’s a unique golfing experience.

Designers like Jack Nicklaus and Tom Doak have made their mark here. The Tara Iti Golf Club is ranked 2nd best globally by Golf Digest Magazine. It shows New Zealand’s golfing renaissance.

Green fees in New Zealand fit all budgets. They range from $10-$15 to high-end rates at luxury resorts. The best time to play is November to April, when the weather is perfect.

Key Takeaways

• New Zealand has 396 golf courses, the second-highest per capita globally
• World-renowned designers have created top-tier courses in New Zealand
• Tara Iti Golf Club is ranked 2nd best globally by Golf Digest Magazine
• Green fees range from $10 to premium rates at luxury resorts
• The ideal golfing season is November through April
• Courses offer diverse styles including links, parkland, and alpine

New Zealand’s Golf Renaissance

New Zealand’s golf scene has changed a lot in recent years. The country has seen a big increase in new golf courses. This has made New Zealand a big name in golf worldwide.

Course Development Surge

In the last 25 years, New Zealand’s golf has grown a lot. Courses like Cape Kidnappers and Kauri Cliffs are now famous globally. Queenstown is especially popular for golf, thanks to Jack’s Point and The Hills.

Rising International Recognition

New Zealand’s golf courses are known all over the world. Tara Iti, opened in 2015, quickly became a favorite among golf fans. Now, five of New Zealand’s courses are in Golf Digest’s Top 100, showing the country’s growing influence in golf.

Tourism and Local Impact

The golf boom has greatly helped tourism and local communities. Golf is now the most popular sport in New Zealand. Visitors from abroad come to play the country’s unique golf courses, helping the economy.

New Zealand is now a top place for golf, thanks to its beautiful landscapes and excellent courses. It attracts golfers from all over the world.

Top 6 Golf Courses in New Zealand: A Golfer’s Paradise

New Zealand is a true golfing paradise with world-class courses. It has everything from coastal links to alpine fairways. These courses are perfect for all skill levels and preferences.

We will look at the best of New Zealand’s golfing scene. Here are the top 6 golf courses that have made the country famous among golf lovers worldwide:

1. Tara Iti Golf Club
2. Te Arai Links South Course
3. Kauri Cliffs Golf Course
4. Jacks Point Golf Course
5. The Hills Golf Course
6. Kinloch Club

These courses show off New Zealand’s diverse landscapes. They offer unique challenges for golfers. From the coastal beauty of Tara Iti to the alpine views of Jacks Point, each course is unforgettable. Golf enthusiasts visiting New Zealand will have a great time at these top venues.

These top golf courses in New Zealand offer different prices and availability. Make sure to book early, especially for exclusive clubs like Tara Iti. With their stunning scenery and challenging layouts, these courses promise an unforgettable golfing experience in this southern hemisphere paradise.

Tara Iti Golf Club (Mangawhai): A Masterpiece on the Coast

Tara Iti Golf Club is a gem on Mangawhai’s coast. It was designed by Tom Doak and opened in 2015. It quickly became famous worldwide.

Tom Doak’s Vision

Tom Doak wanted Tara Iti to blend with nature. The course offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands. It’s a mix of beauty and challenge.

Unique Features and Design

The design of Tara Iti is modern and unique. It uses fine fescue grasses and a sand base for firm play. There’s no rough, just fairway height everywhere.

This design needs special care. Fairways are kept at 11.5 mm for a firm, lean surface. It’s all part of Doak’s vision.

Exclusive Access and Experience

Tara Iti is an exclusive club. It limits public access, but visitors can play as much as they want. This makes for a special golfing experience.

Players must use a caddie. They help with more than just carrying bags. They offer valuable insights into the course.

Kauri Cliffs (Northland): Pebble Beach on Steroids

Kauri Cliffs is in the beautiful Bay of Islands. It offers a golf experience that’s among the best in the world. The course, designed by David Harman, is 6,528 meters long with a par-72 layout. It challenges and delights golfers of all levels.

Since opening in 2000, Kauri Cliffs has become famous for its stunning views and design. Fifteen holes have the Pacific Ocean in view, with six right on the cliffs. PGA pro Brandt Snedeker calls it “Pebble Beach on steroids.”

The 7th hole offers views of the Cavalli Islands. This shows how the course blends with New Zealand’s natural beauty. Golf Digest ranks it as the 39th best course globally, making it a top destination for golfers.

After golf, relax at The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs. It’s a luxury resort with 22 suites. It’s a Relais & Chateaux property with world-class amenities and amazing views.

Kauri Cliffs is an important part of New Zealand’s golf growth. It sets a high standard for course design. With its clifftop golf and luxury resort, it offers an unforgettable experience for golf lovers and travelers.

Cape Kidnappers (Hawke’s Bay): Clifftop Golfing Perfection

Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay is a unique clifftop golf spot. Designed by Tom Doak, it covers 6,510 meters of stunning coastal land. Since 2004, it’s a top choice for golf lovers around the world.

Tom Doak’s Second Kiwi Gem

Tom Doak’s design makes the most of the dramatic views. The par-71 course goes through hills and valleys. Players get to see Hawke’s Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

Each hole is a challenge but also offers amazing views. It tests your skills and rewards you with breathtaking sights.

Signature Holes and Scenic Views

Cape Kidnappers has unforgettable holes, especially the back nine. Playing along the ridgeline towards the cape is unforgettable. The par-5 15th hole, loved by Adam Scott, shows the course’s beauty and challenge.

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers Resort

After golf, relax at The Farm at Cape Kidnappers resort. It offers luxury with stunning views. You can stay in Ridge, Lodge, or Hilltop Suites, each with its own charm.

The resort has a spa and gourmet dining. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a game.

Cape Kidnappers is a top clifftop golf spot in New Zealand’s Hawke’s Bay. It has a challenging layout, stunning views, and luxury stays. It’s a golfer’s dream that creates unforgettable memories.

Kinloch Club (Taupo): Jack Nicklaus’s New Zealand Legacy

The Kinloch Club is a showcase of Jack Nicklaus’s golfing brilliance. It’s located near Lake Taupo and was created in 2007. With 256 courses designed, Nicklaus’s skill is clear in every detail of this challenging golf paradise.

At 7,367 yards from the tips, Kinloch Club requires precision and strategy. It combines links and parkland styles, featuring fescue and heather grasses. Fast, sloping greens make putting a thrilling challenge.

The par 4 10th hole is a highlight. It offers stunning views of the course and Lake Taupo. This view alone makes Kinloch the best golf course in the Southern Hemisphere.

Kinloch Club is more than just golf. It offers luxury accommodations and amenities. The Dunalistair House has four lavish bedrooms. It’s ideal for your Lake Taupo golfing trip, with a gourmet kitchen and media room.

Jack’s Point (Queenstown): Golfing in the Shadow of The Remarkables

Jack’s Point offers a stunning Queenstown golf experience. This scenic golf course, designed by John Darby in 2007, stretches 6,388 yards from the black tees. The par-72 layout boasts a challenging 73.5 rating and a 140 slope.

John Darby’s Natural Design

Darby’s vision for Jack’s Point embraces the natural landscape. The course winds through rocky outcrops and grasslands, offering golfers a unique blend of challenge and beauty. Each hole presents a new adventure, with the Remarkables mountain range providing a breathtaking backdrop.

Challenging Terrain and Stunning Vistas

The course layout at Jack’s Point keeps golfers on their toes. Hole 5, a sweeping par five, marks the start of an unforgettable stretch. Hole 6, a short downhill par four, tempts big hitters to drive the green. The par-three 7th hole rewards players with one of the world’s best lake views.

Memorable Lakeside Holes

Jack’s Point shines brightest along Lake Wakatipu. Holes 5 through 8 hug the shoreline, offering unparalleled views and strategic challenges. These lakeside holes form the heart of this Queenstown golf gem, making Jack’s Point a must-play for golf enthusiasts.

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary: Where Golf Meets Conservation

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is a place where golf and nature come together. It opened in 1970 and has become a wildlife sanctuary. This shows New Zealand’s dedication to protecting the environment.

The course was designed by Peter Thomson and covers 6,460 meters. Since 2012, it has become a safe space for native animals. A big fence keeps predators out, helping the wildlife thrive.

Kiwi conservation is a big focus at Wairakei. Kiwi chicks have a low survival rate, but the sanctuary helps them grow. Thanks to people like Will Kahu, the chicks get the care they need.

Wairakei is home to many animals. You might see colorful pheasants, guinea fowl, fallow deer, and even New Zealand Falcons. It’s a great place to see wildlife while playing golf.

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is more than a golf course. It’s a chance to see New Zealand’s beauty and help conservation. Your visit helps protect endangered animals and keeps the ecosystem safe for the future.

Paraparaumu Beach: Links Golf at Its Finest

Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club is located north of Wellington. It’s a classic links golf course. Golfers of all levels will find it challenging and enjoyable.

Alex Russell’s Classic Design

Alex Russell designed Paraparaumu Beach in 1949. It follows the Golden Age of golf architecture. The course has rolling fairways and large greens.

It has only 34 bunkers. Russell’s design focuses on strategy, not just hazards.

Host of Multiple New Zealand Opens

Paraparaumu Beach has hosted the New Zealand Open 12 times. It’s a top golf destination in the country. It’s ranked among the world’s best golf courses by Golf Digest.

True Links Experience

Playing at Paraparaumu Beach, you’ll find wide fairways and chances for birdies. The firm surfaces and finer grasses give you a real links golf feel. The fifth hole is special, with no bunker and an island green.

Visitors to Miami’s public golf courses might see similarities. Both offer great golfing experiences.

The Hills: Art and Golf in Harmony

The Hills is in the heart of Queenstown golf country. It’s a mix of luxury golf and art. The course covers over 500 acres of a beautiful glacial valley. It has dramatic elevation changes and rocky schist outcrops.

The Hills is special because of its art at each hole. As you play the 18 holes, you’ll see amazing sculptures. They add to the natural beauty of the landscape. This makes your golfing experience unforgettable.

The Hills has hosted many New Zealand PGA tournaments. It’s known as a top golf course in Australasia. Its design and scenery are world-class.

Golf lovers looking for something special will love The Hills. Its challenging layout and artistic touches make it unique. If you’re planning a golf trip, The Hills is a must-see.

Millbrook Resort (Queenstown: The Golf Capital of New Zealand)

Millbrook Resort is in the heart of Queenstown, known for luxury and golf. It covers 650 acres and has a 27-hole complex. This was designed by Sir Bob Charles and Greg Turner, two golf legends from New Zealand.

The resort’s championship course is famous. It has hosted the New Zealand Open on the PGA Tour of Australasia since 2014. Each hole is carefully made to challenge golfers of all levels.

Millbrook Resort is more than just golf. It has 160 rooms for up to 350 guests. There are five types of rooms to choose from, making sure everyone finds a comfortable place to stay.

The resort also has a spa, a 25m indoor pool, saunas, and three outdoor pools. It’s a place where you can relax and enjoy yourself.

There’s plenty to do outside of golf. You can play tennis, rent bikes, or go on guided garden tours. There are also three restaurants on site, offering different cuisines.

Millbrook Resort is in Queenstown, the golf capital of New Zealand. It’s close to many exciting activities. You can try bungee jumping or go on a wine tour. Your Queenstown golf trip will be unforgettable at this luxury resort.

Arrowtown Golf Club (Queenstown)

Arrowtown Golf Club is in the heart of Central Otago. It’s a unique golf experience in Queenstown. This historic course is ranked 20th best in New Zealand. It has a challenging par 70 layout of 5409 meters.

The scenery is breathtaking, with the Remarkables mountain range as a backdrop. This makes your game even more special.

The course’s design is quirky, unlike other Queenstown golf courses. It has no bunkers but uses natural hazards and varied terrain. The front nine is flatter, while the back nine is tighter and more dramatic.

Arrowtown Golf Club has five par 3 holes, each a challenge. The 1st hole is a 162-meter par 3 that starts your round. You’ll also face the 501-meter par 5 2nd hole and the tricky 324-meter par 4 18th hole.

For the best experience, visit in summer (November to February). The weather is warm, with temperatures around 22°C (72°F). You’ll have plenty of sunshine to enjoy this unique course.

Gulf Harbour Country Club (Auckland)

Gulf Harbour Country Club is a top spot for golf in Auckland. It’s located on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, offering stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf. The course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., is 6,400 meters long and a par 72.

It welcomes golfers of all levels with four tee sets. The design mixes coastal beauty with challenging play. This makes it a hit with both locals and visitors. It has even hosted international tournaments, proving its world-class status.

Despite its fame, Gulf Harbour faced financial issues. It closed after 25 years, with a membership of 600-700. The lack of investment led to its decline. Now, the community worries about housing on this beautiful course.

Gulf Harbour shows Auckland’s golfing excellence. It’s the only top-ranked course in the area. Losing it emphasizes the importance of managing top golf spots in New Zealand.

Clearwater Golf Club (Christchurch)

Clearwater Golf Club is a top resort course in Christchurch. It opened in 2002, designed by John Darby with Sir Bob Charles as consultant. The course has a “Florida Links” style, blending lush parkland with lots of water hazards.

It offers six tee options, including five par 72 layouts and one par 60. This variety suits golfers of all levels. The course adjusts its tee and pin positions based on the wind.

Water is a critical feature at Clearwater, framing most holes and requiring precise shots. Highlights include the short par 4 eighth, the all-water carry par 3 ninth, and the tricky thirteenth. The eighteenth hole, a strong par 4 with a semi-island green, ends your round.

Clearwater has hosted big events like The Clearwater Classic and New Zealand Open. It has great practice facilities, including a 400-meter driving range and putting greens. These help you improve your game before playing the course.

Planning Your New Zealand Golf Adventure

Your New Zealand golf trip planning starts here. The best time to visit depends on your preferences. Summer (December to February) offers ideal golfing weather. Book tee times in advance, especially for exclusive courses like Tara Iti, which requires a letter of introduction for non-members.

Many New Zealand travel packages cater to golf enthusiasts. A typical 12-night itinerary includes 5-star accommodations and 8 rounds of world-class golf. You’ll also enjoy daily breakfasts and select meals at renowned courses like Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers. Ground and domestic transfers are often part of these golf packages, ensuring a seamless experience.

Consider the diverse geography when planning your route. From the coastal links of Paraparaumu Beach to the alpine settings of Jack’s Point, each course offers unique challenges. The driving distance between Bay of Islands and Rotorua is about 284 miles, taking roughly 6 hours. This variety allows you to combine golf with other New Zealand attractions for an unforgettable vacation.