Golf in New Zealand - Golf's Own Country

Be prepared for spectacular scenery and wonderful hospitality, for glorious sunshine and for golf courses that will take your breath away. New Zealand is often referred to as God’s Own Country. It could just as easily be called Golf’s Own Country.

New Zealand is a golfing destination worth traveling to the ends of the earth for. Where else in the world can you play 18 holes of golf, go skiing and swim in the ocean all in the same day? New Zealand has it all.

	FAST FACT: All the courses with the exception of Wairakei (partnered with Huka Lodge and Bayview Wairakei Resort for accommodation) have very well appointed accommodation.

Golf is the highest participation sport in New Zealand and the country has produced such notable players as Sir Bob Charles and Michael Campbell, while this year’s US Amateur Champion, Danny Lee, looks destined for greatness.

New Zealand was named the Undiscovered Golf Destination of the Year in 2002 by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators. Since then thousands of golfers from around the world have experienced the unique attractions that New Zealand has to offer. And the golf industry in New Zealand continues to grow and develop. A number of new resort courses have been carved out of the dramatic landscape to complement the already impressive selection of courses around the country.

Regardless of your budget or your handicap, New Zealand has something to offer. Isn’t it time you discovered what makes it so special?

North Island

8th Green at Jacks Point Golf Course

You could choose to start your golfing trip at the top of the North Island at Carrington, one of eight courses around the country which are part of the Best of Golf New Zealand brand. This initiative brings together some of the best golf courses, resorts, tour operators and accommodation providers. (For more information log onto www.bestofgolfnewzealand.com)

On your drive back to Auckland you should try and stop for a game at Kauri Cliffs, a course that since it opened in 2000 has won worldwide acclaim for its dramatic location, luxurious lodge and challenging course.

Just outside Auckland, Gulf Harbour is another course you should make it your business to play while the Lakes Resort in Pauanui in the Coromandel is another great addition to New Zealand’s ever increasing list of ‘must play’ courses.

In the heart of the North Island, an area famous for its rich Maori heritage, freshwater fishing and active volcanoes, is Wairakei International Golf Course. Consistently ranked as one of New Zealand’s best, this parkland course weaves its way through thousands of tall majestic trees which help to create a magical atmosphere.

A couple of hours drive and you are on the east coast at Cape Kidnappers, a course which couldn’t be more different to Wairakei. This is extreme golf in a setting which has to be seen to be believed. The Pacific Ocean and the breathtaking cliffs are as much a part of the Cape Kidnappers experience as the wonderful golf course.

South Island

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Terrace Downs is located in the foothills of the Southern Alps and the towering snow capped mountains serve as the backdrop to a picture perfect golf course.

Clearwater lives up to its name with the man made lakes dotted around the course bringing water into play on all but four of its 18 holes. It is one of a number of golf courses in New Zealand which have benefited from the design input of the country’s greatest golfer, Sir Bob Charles. As well as a golfer’s paradise it is also a treat for fishermen with some of the best trout fishing in the country.

	FAST FACT: You can play golf in New Zealand anytime of the year. Only some south island courses can have temporary snow cover June-August. Caddies can usually be booked to play with visitors, given sufficient notice.

Jack’s Point is one of the newest resort courses in New Zealand but although it only opened to the public in September 2008, already it is being talked about as one of the most special places in the country to play golf. Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Jack’s Point is the ultimate in golfing luxury.

These are just some of the golf courses waiting to be discovered in New Zealand. What will be your favourite course?

TOP TIPS Whether you're a novice or golf fanatic, make the most of New Zealand's golf courses with these top tips for visiting golfers. Read More

New Zealand was voted as the Best Golf Destination in Asia & Australasia for 2009 at the International Golf Travel Mart. Click the logo to see more information.

The Best of Golf New Zealand brochure is available as an e-book.
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