Tee Off in World-Class Locations Across Both Islands
New Zealand Golf Holidays offer the perfect blend of spectacular scenery, expertly designed courses, and relaxed hospitality. With international visitor-friendly clubs and surprisingly low green fees, it's one of the most accessible and enjoyable golf destinations in the world. Whether you're a casual player or a dedicated golf enthusiast, you’ll find unforgettable experiences waiting at every tee box across both the North and South Islands.
From 6-day packages based in Auckland to 17-day self-drive adventures covering both islands, golf holidays in New Zealand can be fully customised to suit your pace and preference. Auckland alone offers access to top North Island courses such as Formosa Golf Resort and Wairakei Golf Club, combining challenging play with scenic coastal and countryside views. As you head south, the journey continues through stunning landscapes and championship-level courses, ending in the alpine paradise of Queenstown.
Play on Legendary Courses with Unmatched Views
Queenstown is a must-visit destination on any New Zealand golf itinerary, offering unforgettable rounds set against breathtaking alpine backdrops. Choose from flexible packages ranging from short 6-day golf breaks to 17-day tours that include handpicked luxury lodges and premium golfing experiences. Courses like Millbrook Resort and Jack’s Point deliver not only world-class design but also views that rival any in the world, making every round a scenic adventure.
Of course, no New Zealand Golf Holidays would be complete without visiting the country's most iconic courses. Head to Cape Kidnappers for dramatic cliffside fairways, or play at Kauri Cliffs, which offers sweeping Pacific Ocean vistas with every hole. From Waitangi to Clearwater, each course is a unique blend of natural beauty and elite-level design, making New Zealand a dream destination for golfers around the globe.
North Island
Waitangi Golf Club, Paihia: With panoramic sea views over the beautiful Bay of Islands, Waitangi Golf Club offers an enjoyable yet challenging golf experience. The course's 18 holes are set in rolling parkland and feature a variety of natural hazards.
Kauri Cliffs Golf Course: Located at Matauri Bay in Northland, Kauri Cliffs offers spectacular ocean views from 15 of its 18 holes. This par-72 championship course, designed by David Harman, provides a thrilling golfing experience amid stunning natural beauty.
Rydges Formosa Golf Course: This course is renowned for its breathtaking views over the Hauraki Gulf and the Auckland city skyline. Its 18-hole, par 72 championship layout offers a challenging round for golfers of all levels.
Wairakei International Golf Course: Set amidst a sanctuary filled with native birdlife near Taupo, Wairakei International offers a unique golfing experience. This world-class course, designed by Peter Thomson and Michael Wolveridge, is consistently rated among the best in New Zealand.
Cape Kidnappers Golf Course: Designed by the legendary Tom Doak, this course in Hawke's Bay is dramatically perched on a cliff edge overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The undulating fairways and deep bunkers present a significant challenge, while the dramatic views make every round unforgettable.
The Kinloch Club, Taupo: Overlooking Lake Taupo, the Kinloch Club is New Zealand's only Jack Nicklaus Signature Course. It's a challenging par-72 layout that cleverly utilizes the natural topography to create a world-class golfing experience.
Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club: As a multiple-time host of the New Zealand Open, this links-style course on the Kapiti Coast has a long history of challenging some of the best golfers in the world. Its rolling fairways and fast greens have been masterfully crafted through natural dunes.
South Island
Fable Terrace Downs Golf Resort: Situated in the foothills of the Southern Alps near Methven, this high-country resort offers a stunning 18-hole championship golf course. With spectacular views over the Rakaia Gorge and Mt Hutt range, golfing here is a visually stunning experience.
Clearwater Golf Club: This championship golf course in Christchurch is designed to cater to all players with a variety of tee positions. It has hosted numerous professional tournaments and offers stunning views of the surrounding alpine landscape.
Jack's Point Golf Course: With a backdrop of 2300 vertical metres of the Remarkable mountain range and an armchair view of an outstanding lake panorama, Jack's Point golf course in Queenstown is one of the most visually spectacular in the world.
Queenstown Golf Course: Set in the amphitheatre of the Remarkable Mountains, Queenstown Golf Course offers one of the most picturesque golfing experiences in the world. The course provides a fair challenge that rewards accurate shot-making.
Millbrook Resort: Nestled at Arrowtown in the Southern Alps of the South Island, Millbrook Resort offers a 27-hole layout co-designed by New Zealand golfing legend Sir Bob Charles. Combining three nine-hole courses, each with their own distinct character, Millbrook Resort is a true golfer's paradise.
The Hills Golf Club: This championship course in Arrowtown, set over 500 acres of former deer farm, offers a unique golfing experience. The layout incorporates various natural features including lakes, streams and tussocks, testing the golfer's strategic thinking and shot-making abilities.
The history of golf in New Zealand can be traced back to the late 19th century, with the country's first golf course, Dunedin Golf Club (now Otago Golf Club), established in 1871. This makes it one of the oldest golf clubs outside of the United Kingdom.
Golf quickly gained popularity throughout the country, with golf clubs springing up from Auckland to Invercargill. By the 1930s, New Zealand boasted more golf courses per capita than any other country in the world - a testament to the game's immense popularity.
Several pivotal figures have left their mark on New Zealand golf history. Sir Bob Charles is one of the most notable, being the first New Zealander to win a major championship, the British Open, in 1963. His success helped elevate the sport's profile nationally and globally. In 1999, Michael Campbell made history by winning the New Zealand Open as an amateur, and he later went on to claim the US Open title in 2005, one of the sport's greatest achievements by a New Zealander.
New Zealand's golf courses have also made significant contributions to the sport's history. Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, for example, has hosted the New Zealand Open a record twelve times, welcoming some of the world's best players. In the 21st century, new courses like Kauri Cliffs and Tara Iti have gained international acclaim, with the latter being ranked in the top 10 courses worldwide.
The country's dedication to the sport is reflected in the development of the New Zealand Golf Association (now New Zealand Golf), founded in 1910, which has promoted and nurtured the sport at both grassroots and elite levels.
Today, golf remains a beloved sport in New Zealand, played by people of all ages. It continues to grow and evolve, with new courses being developed, tournaments being held, and a new generation of golfers taking up the game. The country's golf history is not just about the past, but also a story that continues to unfold.
New Zealand is a golfing paradise that offers a distinctive blend of world-class golf courses, breathtaking landscapes, and friendly hospitality. Here's why you should choose New Zealand for your next golf holiday:
Diverse Golf Courses: With over 400 golf courses, New Zealand caters to all skill levels and preferences. From the dramatic coastal links of Tara Iti to the mountain-backed beauty of Jack's Point and the historic charm of Otago Golf Club, the country's golf courses are as diverse as they are stunning.
Stunning Scenery: New Zealand's natural beauty is unparalleled, and its golf courses offer some of the most scenic rounds of golf you'll ever play. Imagine teeing off with views of snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, or rugged coastline - it's all possible in New Zealand.
Accessible Golf: Unlike many destinations, many of New Zealand's top-rated golf courses are accessible to visitors. You won't just be looking at these beautiful courses from afar; you'll have the opportunity to play on them.
Year-Round Golfing: Thanks to its temperate climate, you can enjoy golf in New Zealand year-round. Summers are perfect for enjoying long, leisurely rounds, while winter brings crisp, clear days ideal for a brisk game.
Cultural Experience: A golf holiday in New Zealand isn't just about the golf. The country offers a rich cultural experience, from the indigenous Maori culture to the welcoming hospitality of its people. You can also indulge in world-class wines, visit historic sites, and explore stunning national parks.
Excellent Facilities: New Zealand's golf facilities are top-notch, with well-maintained fairways and greens, excellent clubhouses, and professional golf instruction available.
Ease of Travel: New Zealand is easy to navigate, with golf courses often located close to major cities and towns. Plus, the country's commitment to safety and cleanliness makes it a comfortable and secure travel destination.
Choosing New Zealand for your golf holiday means choosing a unique and memorable golfing experience. Whether you're a seasoned golfer looking for a new challenge or a casual player seeking a relaxing getaway, a New Zealand golf holiday will exceed your expectations.
New Zealand boasts a range of accommodation options near golf courses to cater to different budgets and preferences. Whether you are seeking luxury lodges or comfortable budget-friendly options, you are sure to find the perfect base for your golf holiday.
Luxury Lodges: Many of New Zealand's top golf courses have associated luxury lodges. For example, Kauri Cliffs, Cape Kidnappers, and The Lodge at Kinloch all offer luxury accommodation. These lodges often feature exquisite rooms, world-class dining, and other activities like spa treatments, fishing, and hiking.
Golf Resorts: Golf resorts like Millbrook Resort in Queenstown and Wairakei Resort in Taupo offer a combination of excellent golf facilities and comfortable accommodation. Staying at a golf resort means you have direct access to the course and can also enjoy other facilities like pools, spas, and restaurants.
Bed & Breakfasts: New Zealand has a plethora of charming B&Bs, many located near golf courses. This option provides a cosy, personal touch and often includes a delicious homemade breakfast to start your day of golfing.
Motels and Hotels: There are numerous motels and hotels near golf courses across New Zealand. These range from budget to upscale options, with many offering amenities like restaurants, pools, and free Wi-Fi.
Remember to book your accommodation in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons. With your accommodation sorted, you can relax and focus on enjoying your golf holiday in New Zealand.
New Zealand's temperate climate makes it a great destination for golfing throughout the year. However, depending on the region, some seasons may offer a more enjoyable golfing experience.
Spring (September - November): Spring in New Zealand can be a wonderful time to play golf, with mild temperatures and landscapes coming alive with blossoms and new growth. However, it's worth noting that this season can also be quite rainy in some regions.
Summer (December - February): This is the peak season for golfing in New Zealand, particularly in the South Island. The days are long and warm, and the conditions are generally dry. Courses can be busier during this period, and advanced bookings are highly recommended.
Autumn (March - May): Autumn is often considered an ideal time to golf in New Zealand. The weather is generally stable with less rain and comfortable temperatures. The changing foliage also adds a beautiful backdrop to the golf courses.
Winter (June - August): Winter golfing is more feasible in the North Island, where winters are milder. Courses in the South Island may be closed or have limited hours due to cold temperatures and potential snowfall.
Remember, the weather can vary significantly between the North and South Island and can change quickly in any region. It's always a good idea to check the forecast and prepare for changing conditions. If you're interested in wine tours, autumn is harvesting time, making it an excellent time to visit.
Overall, while you can golf year-round in New Zealand, the best time to visit would depend on your specific preferences and the other activities you want to enjoy during your golf holiday.
