Golfing in New Zealand
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The staggering variety and lush beauty of its 400 uncrowded golf courses have given New Zealand its well-deserved reputation as a "golfers' paradise." On New Zealand's long narrow islands, one is never very far from the sea, but chances are, one is even closer to a golf course. In fact, it is impossible to travel farther than 30 miles without coming upon one of the country's 400 golf courses.
Planted in fine grasses, marvellously designed courses are noted for being uncrowded, beautifully maintained, and wonderfully diverse. New Zealand is also one of the most inexpensive golfing countries in the world, and the green fees ranging from NZ$5 to NZ$40, are an incredible value. Don't be surprised by some unusual hazards: boiling mud pools, steaming thermal vents, and even the occasional sheep.
THE BEST TIME TO GOLF
In New Zealand, the best time to golf is from October through April, when temperatures range from the mid-'60s to the high 70s. You should allow at least two weeks to play the best courses and see some sights.
Over the years, courses here have attracted some of the world's top players, but regardless of the level of play, locals are always keen to meet golfers from North America. Visitors are very welcome to play on public courses; just book yourself a tee time and rent some clubs. Golf carts are available at the major courses.
AREAS OF NEW ZEALAND TO PLAY
Waitangi
Overlooking the lovely Bay of Islands, the site of the historic signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between the British and the Maori people, its fairways undulate through ferns and native bush.
Muriwai
A true links course, located just 40 minutes from Auckland on the west coast. Black-sand beaches provide a startling contrast to its vibrant greens.
Formosa Country Club
One of New Zealand's newest golf resorts situated 25 minutes from downtown Auckland and designed by Bob Charles, this $100 million development will be able to host international tournaments, with top-class facilities and a unique golfing experience.
Gulf Harbour
One of the country's newest resorts on the Whangaparoa Peninsula. Its spectacular oceanfront holes will ensure that this Robert Trent-Jones Jr, par 72 golf course is destined to become a classic in the golfing world.
Mount Maunganui
A links course near Tauranga, built on rolling dunes overlooking one of the best surfing spots to be found in New Zealand.
Arikikapakapa
Nature has added some kicks to this course, the most celebrated in Rotorua. Its hazards include natural steam vents and boiling mud pools.
Wairakei International
An island course near Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake, boasts the country's longest hole at 615 yards. It was also named one of the top 25 courses outside the United States by the American magazine, Golf Digest.
Paraparaumu Beach
A superb links course near Wellington. Designed by Alex Russell, it offers length, tight fairways, and shots that are challenged by winds off the Tasman Sea. Its 17th hole is rated one of the best in the world.
Shirly and Russley
Both of these courses are situated near Christchurch and feature gorgeous landscaping and fast, true greens. Shirley is the second oldest club in New Zealand.
Balmacewan and St. Clair
Founded in 1871, Balmacewan is New Zealand's oldest club and pride of Dunedin, also known as "Scotland by the Sea." Also in Dunedin, St. Clair offers fabulous ocean views and magnificent pines. From its 15th hole, you can almost see Antarctica.
Millbrook Resort
Near Queenstown, designed by New Zealand's Bob Charles, this demanding, uncrowded course winds around natural waterways, offering exciting golf with a spectacular alpine backdrop.
Kelvin Heights
Also near Queenstown, this course lies on a wooded peninsula that dips into Lake Wakatipu, situated at the base of the stunning mountains called The Remarkables.
New Zealand Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to New Zealand.
Learn about the history and culture of New Zealand, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about New Zealand's nature and wildlife, weather, and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering New Zealand for yourself. Start exploring...book one of our New Zealand tours today!
Extend Your Stay
Consider an additional stopover to your New Zealand vacation at one of Goway's South Pacific destinations. You can choose from our selection of Australian vacations, Tahiti vacation packages or stay at one of our Fiji resorts or perhaps take a Cook Island vacation. This can be done by stopping over en route to or from New Zealand.
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With more than 150 New Zealand tours and experiences, Goway’s Downunder wizards can offer you many ways to explore and enjoy New Zealand. Choose from a simple city stopover, see the country highlights on one of our classic itineraries, a self-drive holiday, a Holiday of a Lifetime, and more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to New Zealand.
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