Golf in New Zealand
Including Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, Jack's Point Golf Club, and Kauri Cliffs Golf Course. On the map.
The vibe
Playing a round here feels remarkably tied to the elements, as coastal winds whip across links courses perched dramatically above crashing ocean tides and distant mountain ranges. The shoulder seasons of late summer and autumn offer the most reliable weather and pristine fairways without the summer holiday crowds. The atmosphere is refreshingly unpretentious and welcoming, where you can easily secure a tee time and chat with the club professional over a post-round pint.
Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, Hawke's Bay
Hawke's Bay
Phillip Capper from Wellington, New Zealand / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this Tom Doak-designed masterpiece is famous for its narrow fairways and breathtaking sea views. It is a bucket-list destination for golfers seeking a spectacular, high-stakes layout in a rugged coastal setting.
Access. Located near Napier; accessible by car with shuttle services available from local luxury lodges.
Notes. Wind can be a major factor; requires a handicap certificate for some tee times; strict golf attire required.
Jack's Point Golf Club, Queenstown
Otago
Robert Linsdell from St. Andrews, Canada / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, this course sits between the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu. Its natural, rugged aesthetic makes it one of the most photographed golf courses in the world.
Access. Located near Queenstown Airport; easily accessible by car.
Notes. Stunning but challenging due to natural hazards and mountain winds.
Kauri Cliffs Golf Course, Northland
Northland
Pseudopanax at English Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
This stunning course offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and offshore islands from almost every hole. Known for its pristine conditioning and dramatic elevation changes, it is a quintessential luxury golf destination.
Access. Located in Matauri Bay; accessible via private transport or helicopter transfers from Auckland.
Notes. Best played in the summer months; carts are often mandatory due to the hilly terrain.
Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, Kapiti Coast
Wellington
AlasdairW / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
This historic links course is widely regarded as the spiritual home of New Zealand golf. With its classic sandy soil and undulating fairways, it provides a pure links experience that has challenged the world's best players.
Access. Located on the Kapiti Coast, about an hour north of Wellington.
Notes. Open to visitors; classic links conditions require a low-ball flight to combat coastal winds.
Royal Wellington Golf Club, Wellington
Wellington
Sicnag / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
As one of New Zealand's most prestigious clubs, Royal Wellington offers a classic parkland experience along the Hutt River. Its mature trees and meticulously maintained fairways provide a serene yet challenging test of golf.
Access. Located in Heretaunga, a short drive from Wellington city center.
Notes. Private club with reciprocal arrangements for international visitors; formal dress code applies.
The Hills Golf Club, Queenstown
Otago
Michelle Maria / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Southern Alps, this course is famous for its artistic sculptures and challenging, undulating terrain. It is a high-end destination that hosts the New Zealand Open, attracting top-tier golfers.
Access. Located in Arrowtown, a short drive from Queenstown; accessible by rental car or private transfer.
Notes. Mountain weather can change rapidly; advanced booking is essential.