All posts by Ken Orr

Southland

Invercargill Golf Club: Where Golfing Heritage and Pristine Greens Collide in the South.

Across the picturesque landscape of Southland, there are six 18-hole golf courses. Invercargill Golf Club is the jewel in the crown and is the oldest. Established in 1900 it has a reputation as the best in the South. The New Zealand Open was hosted here in 1960 and the way back in 1934 Eugenio Saraceni as his birth name goes, played here. Gene Sarazen was 32 years old when he trod the Links of Otatara and famously proclaimed that these links had the best fairways in New Zealand. Thanks Gene, but I will be the judge of that!

A year later Gene was at the Augusta Masters and hit his second shot, a four wood, into the hole at the par 5 15th – the albatross helped him win the tournament. He went down in history and went on to be a legend of the game winning all 4 majors.

THE NEST

I was looking forward to playing at Invercargill Golf Club, I chose a windless and warm day to make the trek to the linksy course just 6 minutes out of Invercargill city centre. The course is halfway between Invercargill and Oreti beach, where Burt Munro roared on his famous World’s Fastest Indian. I wonder if he was a member of the golf club. If you haven’t seen the movie, go to the video shop and rent a copy, it is awesome.

Preparing for my round putting on my shoes I encountered a wee rip in the side. I pondered the possibility of playing with a hole in my shoe, it was dry so no worries there. As I walked to the golf shop, I could feel the side of my shoe coming apart. Bugger, I will need to invest in new shoes. The lady in the shop was very helpful and I picked up some Ecco shoes that looked smart. I saw this as a lucky omen, the last time I had a successful pre-round shoe purchase and low score combo was at Cromwell Golf Club. Superstitious or not, the choice infused me with a sense of buoyancy for the round ahead.

 There is a charming putting green in front of the clubhouse, I used it to test out the shoes. I didn’t stay long as I was eager to get into the course proper. Looking around at the lay of the land, it may have been built on links land, with a sandy bottom but there was more of a parkland feel with more trees and native New Zealand bush than I expected. There was good undulation to the look of the course which pointed it towards a links feel. The bunkering across the course underscored this links point alongside the shapely greens.

The scorecard I had didn’t have hole names on it, but there was a second scorecard that did provide this missing narrative. There was simple wooden hole numbering on each tee, with no hole names on the course. The first hole is a short par 4 at 290 metres – “the Nest”. The course isn’t overly long, a tad over 6,000 metres with 3 par 5’s and 3 par 3’s. A smart play off the first tee is a long iron and focus on the approach to the lovely setting in the undulations of the first green.

1st green

It is wise to research Invercargill Golf Club before visiting, this is not a course where you pull the driver from your bag on every hole. A good strategy and a calm head will minimise the effect of that inconsistent loop in your backswing. Unfortunately, the driver was needed on holes two and three, they are long, with a stroke index of 3 and 1 respectively. The 3rd 402 metres, is called “Rushes” – don’t rush – the tee shot needs a long and accurate shot to a narrow fairway. And then get up to an elevated green surrounded by deep bunkers.

The par 3’s are excellent, only three of them, so enjoy every moment. “Schoolhouse” the 4th is 139 metres and flat, seemingly simple enough except for the protective bunkers and the narrow green. The Takitimu mountains are a majestic southland feature seen from many golf courses and that usually leads to a hole name with this signature. “Takitimu” the 6th is well placed next to the clubrooms if you have forgotten to put a drink in your bag.

4th green

I do like an “Elbow” – the dogleg 7th hole is 327 metres and about 200 metres up to the bend of the elbow.  A nice wee hole.

The stretch from the 8th through the 11th offers some good scoring opportunities. A couple of par 5’s and shorter par 4’s. I enjoyed the elevated outlook off of the 10th tee box, aptly named “Outlook” which has an attractive opening shot to a fairway with a ridge that needs taming.

The next part of the course was very enjoyable, the 12th – a testing 183 metre par 3 – was easy on the eye, a shapely green with a rotten-looking deep bunker in front. My hole of the day and now added to the best holes of New Zealand List.

Your eyes will water on the 13th if you attack the last par 5 on the course.  A full 500 metres with water, OB, and boasting the name “Eastward HO” – confronting all the “Westward HO’s “across the country. I haven’t met this polar opposite name to date.

The run home from here was a pleasure, undulating fairways and great bunkering stood out, I thought that “Pines” -the last – was an appropriate final challenge to find a spot on the narrow fairway just in the right spot to avoid the rows of tall pines.

The course has impeccable maintenance which ensures an enjoyable but challenging test.  The layout incorporates thoughtful design, the varying fairway undulations, deep bunkers, and strategic hazards require a clever golfer to navigate.

My new shoes performed well on the sandy-bottomed ground; I got off the course on my playing handicap for the day. A testament to picking a windless day, the rough here is not particularly punishing but there is plenty of danger if you stray. The greens are the best in Southland so there are no excuses on the putting surface.

With only half a dozen Southland courses remaining on my checklist to complete, the allure of Invercargill Golf Club will pull me back for another round. It is the best in the region, it is storied with history and undeniable quality making it an irresistible destination for your golf in the South.

Southland

Gore and a little bit more

The Tour of Southland is a historic and popular local cycle race. I was oblivious to its existence as I headed to Gore Golf Club on my own tour of Southland. I met the Tour on the road from Winton, they were going at a great lick through the Southland countryside. A marshal was holding traffic in front of me to allow the Tour to speed on, he told me they were headed for a finish line in Gore.  I assumed their speed and the extra energy in the Tour today was fuelled by the excitement to get to Gore to secure an afternoon tee time at Gore Golf Club, one of the best courses in the region.

I managed to get around and ahead the Tour, arriving at Gore Golf Club on a pleasant southland day. Gore Golf Club has a rich history dating back to 1903, I was intent on making the 120-year-old course proud of my effort to get across to take it on. Southland has 24 golf courses, and only six of them are a full 18 holes. Gore is reputedly one the best in the region.

I got on my bike and sprinted to the start line, the first hole, “Hokonui.” A par 5 at only 431 metres but stroke hole 4 – be suspicious when you see that little matric. Hokonui is a small town in Southland, a radio station, the hills in this region and the name of a famous Moonshine, which was no doubt present at the opening day of the club.

There is a creek 40 metres short of the green on the 1st – which is invisible to the unsuspecting. A clever hole to get you underway, 2 big blows will get you there, but the smart golfer will start with a lay-up in two and focus on an accurate pitch.

1st Green

There had been a bit of rain lately in the region and this made the course soft but still in good condition. The greens at the outset were flat and quite slow, most likely because I was playing at the start of the summer season. The course is parkland and tree-lined on most holes with wide fairways. Across the 18 holes, it is predominantly flat with limited bunkering.

The first par 3 of the day, number 4, was a roadside hole of 184 metres, in the heavy conditions it required a full carry to get up to the green. “Croydon” was a flat a simple hole if you can blank out the road all the way down the right. The name of the hole is a nod to the area of Gore the course sits in, the course is often referred to as Croydon Links.

Whisky Creek tempting green

Inevitably, a Southland staple, there was a Whisky “something” in the hole names. The 5th was “Whisky Creek” a short par 4 that you can attack – your approach to a small green that tilts towards you, needs some attention. Up to this point, the greens were flat, from here on in there was nice undulation and the greens were quickening as the sun burned through the damp. The south is a region with much Scottish heritage, settlers from the motherland took to farming, making whisky, and playing golf from the early years. There is a Moonshine Museum and some great stories of early times of whisky making. Check out more here.

When I walked off the 5th the group of 4 in front were sitting on the 6th tee box enjoying a beer. Waiting for me to play through. They were from Island Park Golf Club on a weekend annual jolly. Gore Golf Club, followed by Invercargill Golf Club and back home via Milton Golf Club.

Hole of the day number 6

The 6th is an uphill par 3 of 155 metres “Mokoia” needed an extra club to get up to the small green, I was advised by the group. I hadn’t been playing well to this point and was a bit nervous about hitting a 5-iron into the green. I was given the seal of approval when I dropped the ball 6 feet from the hole.

I had two more groups of Island Park men in front of me, following the par 5 7th another short par 5, 410 metres – I worked out that the creek in front of the 1st would have been in a similar place to the front of the 7th – I laid up and popped the approach to a few feet. The group in front had stopped to let me through (or to have a beer)

I got off the 8th and through the 2nd group in good spirits, the sun was drying the course, the golf was getting better, and the surroundings were very pleasant. The 8th finishes at the clubhouse “Tuturau”

The 3rd group of I.P.G.C Clansmen let me through on the 10th – following a nice short par 3 of 123 metres. I was on the 9th green, one of the men shouted “If you don’t f*#k about too much over that putt you can play through!”

A nice drive, in front of them off the 10th was greeted with congrats and civilities. I was beginning to rack up a few pars and missed birdie putts. The 11th is a par 3 to a sloping green, a pretty wee number, “The Gully” I notched up another missed birdie putt and swiftly got onto the 12th – a real slog up hill to a soft fairway and it played all its 410 metres.

On the 13th a group of 6 men drinking Speights were not going far or quickly, they let me play through. The 13th tee shot is over a deep gully up to a small green, par 4 at 217 metres. I didn’t know how to approach the hole. I grabbed the driver and swung for dear life to get out of the way of the 6 men out for a drink, with the odd golf in between. The ball came to rest 2 feet from the hole! There was a collection of well-dones and the like. They had no idea I had struggled to hit a straight drive all day to this point. I tapped in for an eagle, quickly tidying up the scorecard!

I was certainly enjoying the course a lot better following a flat uninteresting start. 14 – “Dusky” was a nice driving hole and it had an excellent looking green with a dangerous tiering in the front and an OB road behind. I hit a lovely iron onto the back edge, my game was working just fine now.

14th Green

The 15th, “Old Clubhouse” was a short par 4, 302 metres back toward the old clubhouse, another chance to keep the momentum going. I didn’t take it as no one was watching anymore. The same story of capitulation on 16th “Mount Wendon” which had the largest green on the course.

I was pondering my hole of the course nominations, trying to not pick the 13th because of my epic tee shot. The 17th “Fishers” was in contention, 142 metres, road on the right, a deep bank on the left and attractive sloping green. I parred well after missing the green.

17th Tee

I would say the 6th was my top pick of the course and is fairly placed on the best in NZ list.

I stood on the last very pleased to be there at Gore Golf Club, but one big challenge to come 370 metres back toward the clubhouse, “The Gums” was long with no run out of the fairways. I was on a playing handicap of 10 for the course, a solid bogey would put me on 80 for the day and nett 1 under for the par 71.

I was short in 2 and faced a tricky pitch up a ledge in front of the green, I played a percentage pitch and run up to 15 feet for safety. The I.P.G.C. Clan were out front of the clubhouse having beers and a good time. I rolled the putt in with a rattle on the flag stick and got a cheer from the crowd.
Gore Golf Club is not only steeped in history, making it a must-play for golf enthusiasts, it is a quality golf course. The layout of the holes is clever, and challenging and requires mixed skills and some intelligence to find your way around.

Gore deserves a place on the Top New Zealand Golf Courses List, the history, the quality greens and the challenging course layout are what this little game is all about.

Northland

Tapora Golf Club: The Green Revolution

Is This the Future of Rural Golf in New Zealand?

Tapora Golf Club has made a bold move by installing synthetic greens, becoming the first golf course in New Zealand to do so. The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some golfers praising the new, consistent playing surface, while others complain that it’s not as “natural” as real grass. Not everyone will agree – when you go against the grain.

So, what does the future hold for Tapora Golf Club? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: they’re not afraid to think outside the bunker.

It was a holiday weekend, celebrating Matariki, it seemed just right for a trip to the most progressive club in the country. The essence of Matariki is:

Reflection: reflect on the past and learn from these experiences. Tapora Golf Club is 59 years old, it has seen its share of ups and downs. But the community club has taught me that golf is good for everyone!

Remembrance: time to gather and share stories and memories. After our round, Wally took us through the history of the Cowbell Cup, which Tapora retained this year. A competition between Pararoa Golf Club, Mangawhai Golf Club, and Tapora.

Celebration: The abundance of the land, has provided New Zealand with 383 golf courses. What else is there to celebrate?

New Beginnings: Who better than Tapora Golf Club to look forward to our future with their revolutionary greens?

My Ponsonby tractor enjoyed the drive to Tapora – especially the final stretch of unsealed road. It arrived in the car park looking not too out of place with the local Utes. The local legends, Wally and Edith were in the clubrooms looking after the crowd with food and beverage on the holiday weekend.

I printed a card on the new card printer, with an NZ golf booking registration screen and eftpos facility on site. This is an additional feature in the last few months.

Before I dig a bit deeper into the synthetic greens and how they play, a word of warning, this golf course is tough. The combination is long holes, undulations, narrow fairways, and elevated two-tier small greens. All add up to a course of 5,990 metres and a nightmare waiting to happen if you let it happen to you.

The Nine holes have been expertly designed to give you a different challenge from the varied tee boxes when you play the full 18 holes. There are 2 flags on each of the greens, red for the front and blue for the back.

A wide target greets you on the 1st tee, for a par 5 to start, which is a welcome site. “Kia Ora” – take advantage of this hole it is a gift compared to the rest of the collection.

My first glimpse of the opening green was a buzz for sure, mesmerised, and desperate to find out if my perfect approach would hold the surface. I never found out on the 1st as I missed the green. I chipped onto the green with unknown outcomes of how that would go. Fairly normal to be honest.

Is the grass greener?

1ST Green

Health and safety tip – If you hold your putter onto the surface as a wee brace as you bend down to mark your ball it will slide along the green propelling you forward.

My first putt was a poor effort at an up-and-down par, all me, nothing to do with the surface. The greens run true and are slower than I thought you would get.

2nd Hole is back towards the clubhouse a long par 4. The fairways are good well drained but they don’t offer much run, lengthening everything somewhat.

The drive at 3 is tricky to the very narrow fairway which does have banks on each side to help. The green is a nightmare up to a pedestal 2-tiered delight.

The 4th gives you some water worries off the tee and a very small green to hit. I’d given all of my handicap to the course by the end of that hole. It rained hard for a minute or two, we were next to the clubrooms and a warm beer would have been a blessing. But we gamely pushed on to see the clouds part once again.

“The Pricker”, the 5th, is exactly that up to an elevated green, with a large slope out front, so coming up short is not an option.

The 6th is “Mt Hopeless”, an incredible undulating fairway in front of you from the elevated tee box. And again a two-tiered green elevated for your delight. I bagged my first par of the day here. I was getting used to how the greens performed, if you hit a good putt with good direction and good weight it will pay dividends. Not unlike any other green in the land.

MOUNT HOPELESS

There are some great golf holes but you will have to wait until the last of the nine to confront the god given golfing hole of the day. You will most likely arrive there in tears after shooting at the 179-metre par 3 over water to a teeny wee green.

The 8th

The Hole of the Day

The ninth hole from the top tee is formidable and beautiful. ” Hazard County” dares you to fly over the hazard on the right without going too straight into the other hazard through the fairway. The view from up here is magical. Happy Matariki! Reflect on your decision to cut off more than you should have done. Remembrance of the new Titleist you took from your bag. Celebrate a perfect second attempt just to prove that no matter how useless you are there is always the potential for New Beginnings.

HAZARD COUNTY

It’s still too early to say whether Tapora Golf Club’s decision to install synthetic greens will be a success. However, it’s certainly an interesting experiment, and it could have a major impact on the future of golf in New Zealand.

If synthetic greens prove to be a success, it could lead to more golf courses in New Zealand making the switch. This would have a number of benefits, making golf more accessible all year round in areas with harsh climates.

Local volunteers would certainly be on board, as they see their greens destroyed by the never-ending weather events. The surfaces are more than acceptable for any golfer, and much better than the majority of rural courses. It looks to me to be an excellent investment.

There is something special about Tapora Golf Club, the revolutionary greens are well worth your time to play on this New Zealand first. But there is more at play, the challenging golf course, the amazing surroundings, and the warmth of hospitality in the clubhouse.

Northland

Kerikeri – So good they named it twice.

The township of Kerikeri is populated with over 8,000 souls, the largest town in Northland. A town steeped in history, with the oldest building in New Zealand as a testament to that. Mission House has just turned 200 years old and is a great place to visit when in the area. Kerikeri is the fruit bowl of New Zealand. Abundant with Citrus, Kiwi fruit, Feijoas, Tamarillo, and plenty of avocados.

There are many reasons to visit this part of Aotearoa, but none more so than the golf courses of this region. “Winterless North” is the tagline often used, so a game or two in the colder months of the year is still on the cards.

The Golf course in Kerikeri, Bay of Island Golf Club, is one of the premier courses in the region and recognised New Zealand-wide to be of top-class pedigree. But before we journey down these fairways, I want to highlight a 9-hole course just 15 minutes out of town.

The golf course between Kerikeri and Kaikohe is Okaihau Golf Club, it sits and presents itself in an ancient valley. Step into this history of rural golf where a mere nine holes beckon your adventurous spirit. Born in the year 1928, the club still goes strong today. I just pulled up to play, no fear that the course would be too busy to let me on, I was right with only a few cars in the car park.

A rural offering of 2,647 metres for the par 36 nine holes, not long by any means reflected in my low playing handicap for the day.

1st TEE

First, the opening hole is a modest par 4 at 276 metres. Your drive needs to traverse over a gully with a road on the left, no need to fret, the fairway’s wide open, so even on the first swing of the day you should be fairway bound. The shot up to the first green needs to be confident due to the hill, 2 extra clubs for the distance introduced me to the soft and true surfaces. Seems like an easy way to start if you stick to the simple plan. I had a 7, not part of the simple plan.

1st Green

The second hole, another short par 4, 283 metres, but a challenge indeed. A blind tee shot, and I released that the lack of local knowledge may hold me back today. It was an enjoyable run through the first holes in a rural setting with some cows watching my every move across the fences. If they only knew I had used up my handicap strokes on the first 3 holes they may have turned away in shame.

The 5th was again blind but a stripped pole pointed the way, or didn’t really it seemed to mark the middle of the sloping fairway, so a local may tell you to be right of the pole. Luckily for me, the power fade was out in force and left me in a great spot.

The sixth hole is a beautiful par 3 shooting over a gully to a target with two bunkers guarding the green and a view of the clubhouse. This was my favorite hole of the day, maybe because I had steadied the wobbly ship with a couple of pars.

I had a triumphant moment as I lasered my tee shot at the 111-metre par 3, excited for a moment that I would be closer than I was.

Onto the seventh hole, which took some detective work to find, across the car park. It’s a short par 5, a mere 411 meters, with some mighty fine trees on the left side. I made a birdie here, sending a peach of an approach toward the downhill green.

The course is not very well marked with hole names or maps, but it is a functional country course with a short and well-maintained rough. The fairways are wide, and the greens are good. And the bunkering across the course is attractive.

The onsite toilet was well-signposted and delightful.

The final shot to the ninth hole under the clubhouse is a nice way to end the round, with an American pine overlooking the green.

the last

The American Pine stood tall observing my final endeavours on the last – following the birdie on 7th I was back on track for a on handicap round. But two solid bogies to finish put me right back in my box.

Okaihau Golf Club surprised me a little, with the $25 green fee you can play all day, in a lovely setting, with a well-thought-out golf course.

Bay of Islands Kerikeri

Announcing itself as a premier 18 holes in the region Bay of Islands Golf Club, is a must-visit when playing in Northland. As the sun peered timidly over the horizon, I headed off for an early morning encounter with the Bay of Islands Golf Club in Kerikeri.

I arrived and was greeted warmly in the shop, the gent was watching the Masters. Amidst the excitement of the Masters, the genial gent greeted me, willing to share his wisdom with a first-timer like myself. Taking time out from the Masters madness, he provided me with invaluable tips and a printed map of the course. Ah, the camaraderie of golf, where a bit of knowledge and advice can make all the difference.  It is nothing much to stop and give your customer a bit of knowledge before they set off. I also was told to have a putt on the practice green to get a feel for the true and firm, but not lighting surfaces.

 A straightforward par 5 first hole was welcome as I dusted off the sleep in my body. First out on a course is a treat, all mine to grapple with, awesome! The fairways immediately felt up to par, on volcanic underbelly these would be dry and very playable year-round.

1st green

A simple wee shot into the first green was received well and I stood over a birdie putt to start my round with just me and the course to know, despite missing a birdie putt, the greens proved delightful—firm, yet not excessively slick. I tapped in for a par and saw a man on the course many holes ahead of me. Geeze, he must have started an hour before me. My special moment alone with the course exposed for what it was, just another player to grace its fairways. Oh, and there over a hill I saw another group ahead of me.

Out and back to the clubhouse for 1st and 2nd and then off to the renowned 3rd hole. Following the advice I had received in the shop, I approached the challenging par 5 with care, navigating its 492 meters, complete with a dogleg left and three tiers.

A strategic hole with the playful name of “The Big Cheese,” it perfectly encapsulated the course’s delightful naming etiquette. The approach to The B.C. was well framed with bunkers and water, a very challenging and attractive hole.

A strategic hole and beautifully named, “Ken’s Folly,” the 4th is stroke hole 1- for a 282 metre par four -how unusual. The voice of the bloke it the shop rung in my ears, 4 iron off the tee get in position and take 2 more clubs to get fully up to the green. I did both those things and made green in regulation, easy peasy = 3 putted, of course.

Ken’s folly

I was enjoying Bay of Islands Golf Club, a mature and well-cared-for course for sure. While I didn’t achieve an ace on the par 3 5th hole aptly named “The Ace,” the subsequent stretch of holes showcased the course’s consistent quality. The bunkering across the course stood out, although I skilfully managed to avoid them until now.

The 9th is meaty but lovely 354 metre par 4 back up to the clubhouse. A thoroughly enjoyable front nine and by now the sun had warmed the course and me. A quick drink stop in the clubrooms to check the Masters progress and onto the back nine. The 10th tee had 3 guys on there, who didn’t offer me a place to play through, not cool. I had to push passed them as they had teed off, I was on a mission to get around in under 3 hours.

13 th and best of the day

I was sizzling around the back nine until the 13th, as is always the case the 13th is the signature hole. It made me stop for breath and appreciate its beauty.

A par 3 of only 110 metres, but with a downhill drop of over 20 metres to beautiful little green surrounded by 3 bunkers and an adorable pond. These shots are very difficult to judge if you have never played the hole before. A bit like the 7th at Pebble Beach – I had played that on the simulator at the range once, so I was all ready for this challenge.

It was stroke hole 18, obviously because the locals had worked out which approach to take, and so did I thanks to the simulator. A three quarter 56-degree wedge did the job and got me out of there with a missed birdie putt for par. This hole and the 3rd might appear on the BEST GOLF HOLES IN NEW ZEALAND LIST. 

The tee shot from the 14th back in the trees is a nice touch and I liked the 15th, “Timewarp” – the name was enough. It is a 281-metre par 4, tempting you to a bomb of a driver to the narrow green around the slight dogleg or drop a 5 iron into the fairway and nail the approach. I took the sensible route.

When I reached the 17th they had started club day as a shotgun start, which meant a ridiculously slow final 2 holes. This left me a tad disappointed, and I met a local man filling out his card who had the same worry, if you can’t finish your round without others getting on the course it is not ideal.

My Kerikeri adventure was a positive one, Okaihau Golf Club was an unexpected treat, would it make the Top 10 Nine Holes in New Zealand List? and Bay of Islands Golf Club certainly presented itself as a standout golf course.

Check out the Top New Zealand Golf Courses List to see where Bay Of Islands slots in.

Southland

Unveiling Southlands Best Golf Courses

Welcome to the captivating realm of Southland, where the splendour of New Zealand’s southernmost region meets the artistry of golf. Prepare to be impressed as you delve into the premier golf courses that grace this picturesque landscape. Join me on a captivating journey through Southland’s lush fairways, where golfing prowess intertwines with breathtaking panoramas, offering an experience that is more than a rural backwater, with warm-hearted locals and a cheese roll, the golf in this part of Aotearoa is remarkable.

The 24 courses available are made up of six 18 holes courses and seventeen 9-hole affairs, plus a 6-hole cracker on Stewart Island.

THIS IS A BLUE COD SANDWICH – Worth the visit to the south even if the golf courses are closed!

Invercargill Golf Club (Otara Links): A true links 5 minutes from Invercargill.  The course was established in 1897, it has history! It lies as an exquisite masterpiece, near the “Fastest Indian” famous beach, Otari. With its meticulously crafted 18-hole championship layout, this sanctuary of golf beckons players of all calibers. The course weaves through undulating terrain, challenging golfers to navigate strategically placed bunkers and conquer lightning-fast greens., the Invercargill Golf Club is the epitome of golfing excellence. The best in the South.

Queens Park Golf Club: Step into a realm of tranquility at the Queens Park Golf Club, situated amidst the idyllic beauty of Invercargill’s beloved Queens Park. This jewel of a 18-hole course effortlessly blends nature’s splendor with golfing finesse. Meandering fairways, artfully framed by majestic trees, guide players through a serene parkland setting. As you traverse this harmonious landscape, you’ll revel in the allure of the well-manicured greens, offering an oasis of relaxation and a delightful escape from the everyday hustle.

Te Anau Golf Club
TE ANAU Lakeside magic

Te Anau Golf Club: Embark on a spellbinding journey further south into the awe-inspiring Fiordland region, where the Te Anau Golf Club beckons amidst breathtaking natural wonders. This 18-hole marvel presents an extraordinary golfing experience, harmonizing with the magnificent backdrop of snow-capped peaks and the shimmering Lake Te Anau. Here, golf transcends the ordinary, becoming an immersive journey through nature’s grandeur. Indulge your senses, challenge your skills, and revel in the fusion of golf and the ethereal landscapes that define Te Anau Golf Club.

Nine Holes of Abundance

If you are looking for the shorter version of the game, Southland’s 9-hole courses paint a vibrant mosaic of golfing treasures, each offering its own unique charm and unforgettable experiences. So many to choose from so your golfing dreams will flourish in the South.  Prepare to be captivated by the vivid colors, warm hospitality, and natural wonders that await you in this golfing paradise. Let your golfing adventure in Southland begin!

Tokanui Golf Club: Tucked away in the tranquil countryside, the Tokanui Golf Club presents a rustic haven for golf enthusiasts. This hidden gem showcases a delightful 9-hole layout that winds its way through rolling farmland. With its wide fairways and subtle contours, the course invites players to immerse themselves in the simplicity and serenity of rural Southland. As you navigate the course, enjoy the scenic vistas and embrace the warm hospitality of the Tokanui Golf Club community. There is never a dull moment when you play Tokanui, the Southernmost mainland course in Aotearoa.

Tokanui Golf Club
Tokanui

Kingston Golf Club: Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, the Kingston Golf Club is a charming retreat that captures the essence of its picturesque surroundings. This rustic 9-hole course boasts breathtaking views of the lake and a majestic mountain range. Golfers will appreciate the course’s natural contours, which harmoniously blend with the rugged landscapes. As you revel in the tranquility and marvel at the captivating vistas, the Kingston Golf Club offers a captivating escape from the ordinary.

Kingston Golf Club
KINGSTON

Bluff Golf Club: Situated in the southernmost town of Bluff, the Bluff Golf Club showcases a unique golfing experience that combines coastal beauty with rugged charm. This scenic 9-hole course meanders along the stunning coastline, providing panoramic views of the Mokomoko inlet. and the famous Bluff Hill. As the fresh sea breeze invigorates your game, the course’s undulating fairways and well-maintained greens offer a delightful challenge. After your round, savor the local hospitality and perhaps indulge in Bluff’s renowned seafood delicacies. Fowlers Wild Bluff Oyster shop.

Bluff golf Club
BLUFF

These rustic 9-hole courses in Tokanui, Kingston, and Bluff embody the essence of Southland’s unspoiled landscapes, inviting golfers to embrace the beauty of nature while enjoying the game. Whether you seek a peaceful escape, captivating vistas, or a touch of coastal allure, these courses promise a golfing experience that is truly unique to Southland.

Northland

Houhora Golf Club – The Far North – as far as golf goes.

Houhora Golf Club is the most northerly golf course in the country. The golf course is on state highway 1 halfway between Kaitaia and Cape Reinga. I had an early start, to beat the traffic for the drive to the Cape, a once-in-a-lifetime place to visit. On the return from the most Northerly point in New Zealand, it was only right to pull over and complete the list of “most northerly things to do in New Zealand.”

Luckily, I was in the Jeep, the drive up to the clubrooms from the road is steep. The crew in the car were worrying about a hilly outing. There were a few cars around and many carts, fuelling the worry warts of the steep terrain ahead. The Wednesday haggle was finishing up and the clubrooms were open for business and full of lively types.

$15 will give you the pleasure of this country golf course. I paid my money and asked the barman if he could lend me a pencil. He produced a box of blunt pencils and old pens, and as he rifled through the collection, he settled on a white pen, which he handed to me. Lo and behold it was one of mine! It was a logoed pen with Kingsgate on it, one of the hotels in our chain. The marketing manager will be delighted that our name has covered all parts of the country, is this the most “Northerly Kingsgate pen in the land?” I’ll add it to the list.

VIEW BACK up the 1st

The first tee at Houhora Golf Club is up a steep track, more hills; the worry warts were concerned. The main concern was that we hadn’t played in a long time, so golf fitness was sure to be questioned today. The top of the hill and view from the 1st tee was inspiring.

The course is in a rural setting and mainly flat once you get down into it, Phew. A collection of rusty old swings of the club from the elevated tee got us going just nicely. It was a warm day with a wee breeze to help lower the sweating.

The course is 5,622 metres long for 2 nines, a standard par 72. There were no hole names in sight today. There are good scoring opportunities on the first 3, including the short 1st, a nice 122 metre par 3, and a gettable par 5 3rd.

par 3 2nd

The fairways were in good condition as country golf goes, there was placing, but most of the time my ball sat up nicely in the fairway. There are a few strategic bunkers across the course which have an unmanicured rustic feel, and the greens were at the back end of their latest coring and were heavily sanded, but still firm and true. I can imagine they perform well year-round. The greens were not overly large which is very typical for a country nine. The course has many areas where little red stakes are visible. A few of these had water, the majority will have water when the rains come. These areas are intrusive and appear all over the course, avoiding them will help with your scoring for sure.

Beware the red stakes

The 5th is a par 5 with a well-thought-out design before the green, to give you a reason not to attempt getting on in 2. A pretty little pond and 2 bunkers with a narrowing fairway give you all the clues you need to play sensible.

From the tee on the 5th, you can see the whole course in the valley in front of you. This is the farthest point of the course away from the clubrooms and you can look across the course and see where you came from. This is not a reflective ancestral statement …unless you want it to be.

Golf fitness was now being questioned as the wind dropped, and temperatures started to rise. I struggled through the next couple of long holes, hoping the clubrooms were going to be open to lubricate the dehydrating body. I promised to return the pen to the man up there so I’m sure he wouldn’t go home. The pen was not on brand as it started to register double bogeys on the card. I must have a word with the marketing manager about the effectiveness of these pens. Time for a rebrand, I think.

Green Gold on the 7th

On the 7th I hit a perfect pull to land my ball on top of the neigbouring avocado orchard’s protective sun net. My second attempt landed next to a stanza of tall bamboo, it was old dry bamboo and very tall. It swayed in the light breeze, creaking and moaning at me as I hit a tired old pitching wedge toward the green. The bamboo reflected the need for more golf to push the needle of lifestyle balance back to the positive. I was creaking and moaning as I put the bag on my shoulders and walked away from the bamboo.

Big bamboo

Around the course, there is a great collection of trees, not just Bamboo you’ll also find palm trees, pine trees, and some local Kauri.

The last was the final test of fitness, the longest par 4 on the course that needs a strong approach shot up a steep hill to a green below the clubrooms.

Scoring will be forgotten today but not the location and the experience of ticking off the “most Northerly golf course in the land.”

Back down the last

Back in the clubrooms, the barman got his pen back, he had wisely spent the time sharpening pencils. I ordered libations as we needed a lift as we had tired badly coming up the last. A combination of not enough golf time, early rising, the heat, and some steep inclines.

Houhora Golf Club keeping up standards

The restless night, the night before, in the worst accommodation I’ve ever experienced didn’t help. And I have slept in many rough old places. I won’t name and shame but soft beds, no thrills, spiders, overpriced, noisy with a crack in the bedroom door that you can see through. Plus, a meal that was incredible. If you had offered me that meal as my death row final dinner, I would have gone to the Pearly gates starving.

Anyway, I was not starved of a great golf course today, happy to know I was in the clubrooms drinking “the most Northerly beer I’ve ever had”.

The “most Northerly on course toilet in New Zealand” was in good order. There was a male and female toilet, which is unusual. And clean, unlike last night’s accommodation offering.

Take a drive one day up ninety-mile beach and visit Cape Reinga. These are iconic landmarks in this little country that you should see once. Houhora Golf Club should be part of this memorable trip if you know what is good for you.

LOO
North Harbour

Muriwai Golf Club – Dreamy Links Stuff

This is the black sand course, a true links masterpiece on Muriwai beach.

I hadn’t played a full round of golf since April at Jack’s Point. Today I jumped in the car and headed to Muriwai Golf Club. The car hadn’t moved far since the awesome news that Delta was in the community and we were living with the virus. We were not living with it, we were hiding from it in our apartment.

If any game on earth is the game of the pandemic, it is golf. There is no risk, none, that you will be grabbed by Johnny COVID when wandering the fairways of a golf club. It seemed okay for the public to exercise on a golf course with their dog, or partner, or bubble but don’t bring a wee ball or an iron stick with you, elst you’ll end up a statistic.


I have played Muriwai Golf Club before, in the rain, heavy rain at that. My return to the club was thrilling, there was not a puff of wind and the sun was very welcome on my face. The people here are friendly, nice beach town people.

1st Tee


I moved fast to the 1st tee to get a lick on, it was a late start but there would be plenty of light to see me around. The 1st is upon an elevated tee looking out across the course and the ocean, I was glad to be right here.

It is one of the easier par 4’s, 322 metres with a downhill tee shot. The par 4’s across the course are all longish, the shortest of the collection is 319 metres. I would pick, that with the wind blowing hard, the length of a par 4 would become irrelevant, taking the win downwind and taking your medicine into it.


As I got to my ball resting in the middle of the 1st fairway, not the rough, a bunker, or sand dune, I remembered what I love about Muriwai. The grass is awesome, it is Kikuyu. I am no student of grass, but this stuff
is lovely. Tightly shorn Kikuyu fairways give you a perfect lie every time.
I popped the ball on the green and walked up to the elevated surface.

The green looked amazing, so true, and right up my alleyway. I had a new putter in hand and in a positive frame of mind for my evening on these greens. There was nothing wrong with the previous putter, I just like this one more.

Will it change my fortunes?

I once went to dog training classes (with a dog, not on my own) the lovely trainer commented after the first session, “ the dog doesn’t need training the owners do.”
Similar idea to the putter and its owner I think.


A solid par secured on the first, and off to the second, a par 5. The par 4’s being long and not easy scoring holes contrasts with the par 5’s. Four of them on the course, not all gettable in 2 but with good course management, these are your best opportunity to get a respectable round on the card.
The sweeping dogleg 2nd heads back to the clubrooms and starts a run of holes where the ocean isn’t as evident. I claimed another par, thrilled with my opening after such a long layoff.


There are 4 par 3’s at Muriwai Golf Club, the 3rd is the longest at 175 metres, a fair clip indeed. The par 3’s are all unique and a good scoring chance if you’re on your game.


The course which was built in the late 1950’s – it has been a favourite of many over the years. A top 20 contender in New Zealand for sure amongst those who keep score. I rate it highly on my Top NZ Golf courses list.
The location is serious links, the condition of the grass and the greens plus the magical black sand bunkers give it an edge. The black sand is very black when it is raining, it looks cool.


I was puzzling over what keeps Muriwai from challenging the top 10? Why is Paraparaumu Beach better? The difference is found on the stretch through the 2 long par 4’s of the 4th and 5th and onto the par 5 6th finishing with another long par 4 at the 7th . This stretch is nice but not exceptional, simple holes with none of the clever challenges of other top courses. It doesn’t mix it up enough to deliver a true golfing great. But I’m being a bit picky.

Or it could be the ridiculous Kikuyu grass.


In a past paragraph, I lorded the grass here as the reason you have to play. But a word of warning to those that are not students of grass like me. The rough has long Kikuyu grass, not the deep hard to find your ball rough. But the grass grows up from below itself, is that possible? What I mean is that your ball sits on top of the mess of kikuyu waiting to devour your clubhead.


I’d forgotten this and foolishly took a recovery club out on the 7th to recover from a poor tee shot. I swiped madly at the ball and watched as the ball popped upwards and backward – the grass
sucked my club under and I was sucked in. I don’t recall hitting a shot backward before.


Writing the double bogey on the card on the side of the 7th green was disappointing. My assessment of the course at this point was nice but average. I had a sweat up and trudged up the wee hill to the
8th tee. Ahh now, this is class, playing straight back at the ocean a par 3 to rival the best that you’ll find. Links bunkering and a small sloping green to tangle with, this is links heaven.

8th Tee dreamy links stuff

At 143 metres the length means nothing when the wind blows, they talk about pitching wedge to driver is the range of club choices due to the wind. No wind today, I’ll take the win on that one.
The 8th gets this course back on track, the 9th adds more to the story. Heading back to the clubrooms, the approach to the green needs your attention elevated with sloping drop-offs on each side. A
Norfolk Pine behind the green frames the picture well.


I picked up more water at the shop, I was beginning to falter in the heat. My golf fitness was being put to the test as I moved swiftly to the back 9.
I enjoyed the start of the second half, it felt more like it should. And then the 12th took my fancy, a par 5 that looked at one with nature and the god of links.

12th Hole of the day.

A dogleg to the left with a sweep of spindly trees and bunkers all the way up the fairway, making it a really good golf hole. 4 greenside pot bunkers were the icing on the cake. I secured a par making it 3 out of 3 pars on the long holes so far, my plan was working.


The greens today were in fantastic condition, not slick but so true that you had confidence in your stroke every time. The new putter was playing along nicely and was put to the ultimate test with a 7
foot birdie putt on the last of the par 5’s, the 14th . I popped it in, and walked off the green grinning at my one under across the four par 5’s.


This was not the same story on the par 3’s where I couldn’t equal the accuracy. Even the short 103 metre 17th couldn’t yield a par.

This is a cracking wee hole – uphill only a gap wedge in hand but a scary shot to the undulating green, the green is quite big but if you miss it like me, you’ll struggle.


I stood buggered on the 18th needing a par to go around bang on handicap, a fine feat given the layoff. But the 18th is 374 metres, beautiful to look at but a tough way to finish.

It took a whollop off the tee and a fully flighted 5 iron to the back tier of the green. This finishing hole is one of the best around, missing short or right is not an option on your approach. The gallery on the clubhouse balcony will be watching too.

The Kikuyu also means you don’t get the run up of Scottish links, normally a bump and run will get you up onto a green but the Kikuyu grabs the ball and gives you nothing if you are short. The trusty new putter got me home in par and everyone was happy.


I was impressed with Muriwai Golf Club, one of New Zealand’s finest places to play. A quick mention of the hole names, every hole has it’s own name. No Temptation or Devil’s anything in sight. “Long Tom Kirkup,” “Where’s Joe,” “Don’s Leg” and “Thar she blows!” have a personality not borrowed from someone else. Be your own golfer people, with your own name, good work Muriwai. I personally would put the 12th ahead of the 8th on my best holes of NZ list. But you should go and make up your own mind.

Otago

Jack’s Point Golf Club – I have won a watch!

Let me take you on a journey around a world-class 18 holes. If you know Queenstown, you have already won a watch. A phrase used in Scotland to indicate you got lucky and received more than you were expecting.

Queenstown has a spectacular charm that is hard to ignore. Twenty minutes drive from the town, heading towards the Remarkable Mountains and you will meet with Jack’s Point Golf Club.

Driving into the car park, I was a little excited, trying to contain my enthusiasm, just in case, all the hype was misguided.

The backdrop of the Remarkables was not new to me, I lived a long time in Queenstown. The one thing with the Wakapitu basin is that it gets you every time, no matter how long you’ve looked at the spectacular surroundings.

Preamble over… let’s get to the course. The first is a relatively short par 4, the angled fairway is wide and inviting. The rough down the left-hand side not so much. The green is massive with bunkering protecting the front.

When you walk the holes at Jack’s Point Golf Club you don’t see the other holes. Each hole is its own experience with its own personality. This is a very unique feature and it allows you to immerse yourself in the moment.

The uphill par 4 2nd hole needs an accurate drive ( or else!) The approach up to the green is threatening with steep bunkers overtaking the landscape.

The bunkers also have some bedrock sticking out of them, so they may appear beautiful but don’t go in them. You get a good view of the Jack’s Point suburb from here.

Everything is in its infancy around here. The golf course was finished in 2008, the design by John Darby lends itself to you not knowing the age of the course. So much of the environment is laying weaved into the course it seems they are one. The vegetation and surrounds tell a tail, the design was sensitive – to tread lightly, not disturbing the land. Losing none of what mother nature built here.

I was in heaven playing the game I love – in this location – on this course. It didn’t matter how I scored today, I had Won my Watch. The 5th was a challenge, a 497 par 5. Shoot out over the wasteland tussocks if you dare. Avoid the rock if you can. Get up the hill and position yourself to hit your 3rd shot into the impossible green. Good luck.

Every minute I was on the course was a blessing. Nowhere more so than the 6th Tee. 282 metres downhill from the Blues. I would advise playing as far back that you dare off the tees. There are 5 to chose from, you miss some of the natural challenges if you go right up the front.

You need to go for the green on the 6th, if you miss the target you will roll the dice on what you are left with.

This would be anybody’s favourite place in the world. Looking over the Wakatipu taking on the 6th. Then the 7th arrives, a par 3 to be in awe of. The short infinity shot at the green is just brilliant.

The native matagouri bushes that are common to the area are most visible around this part of the course. These untouched bushes date back over 500 years. I was beginning to believe the stories, this isn’t a golf course carved out of the land, it is the land. Each hole has its own distinct and separate mana.

The 5th, 6th, and 7th are a stretch of genius. Does it get better than this? The 8th is a tough par 5 that keeps on giving. There is no better or worse here, it ALL works.

You move away from the lakeside and head back towards the Remarkables on the 9th. Not disappointed, the views were better or different.

There are 2 par 3’s early on the back 9, the 11th, and the 13th. If you thought the 7th was worthy of your attention, well these 2 will make you weep at their beauty. Just go here and play them, your life will be richer.

Over the Flock and the Wall

On the 15th I was cocooned in this golf course and now something new. A tee shot over a sheep-filled paddock, over the perfect stone wall to make the angled fairway. You will love this tee shot unless you end up in with the sheep. This is Mr Darby’s favourite hole around here.

My round was coming close to its conclusion. On the 16th I was aware we were heading home. But no time for complacency a downhill tee shot with a tussock-filled danger zone in the middle of the fairway.

There is a wee bonus par 3 after the 16th, not sure why, but it would rank as one of New Zealand’s best un-numbered golf holes.

And finally, on the 17th tee, you can see 2 holes at the same time, down the 17th a monster 536 metre par 5 and then back up the 18th to the clubhouse.

The 18th has the lake on your left, the walk up to the green is amazing. I felt magic having completed the 18 holes at Jack’s Point Golf Club. If you played here every week you would never get immune to the infectious beauty of the course. Its natural environment stunning backdrop and immaculate presentation will course through your veins. There is no vaccine to cure that. Number 1 golf course in New Zealand for me now.

Waikato

PURANGI GOLF CLUB – YOU COULD END UP IN HOT WATER

The attractive rolling farmland that surrounds the Purangi Golf Club leads you to believe this country affair will be easily tamed.

The course is situated close to some of the great beaches on the Coromandel Peninsula. Hahei Beach is the gateway to Cathedral Cove. Cooks Beach is delightful and the legendary Hot Water Beach – it is legendary for people sitting in self-dug holes of hot water.

Catering to the locals and the holidaymakers this full-length nine-hole course is no pushover. 5,200 metres twice round, it is well worth feeding the honesty box with $20 for unlimited all-day golf.

In years gone by I believe livestock and fences were in place, I was expecting a rugged rural presentation. But wait, as I pulled up she was an attractive wee place and dressed to impress.

The greens were small – as expected in rural NZ – but very tidy, undulating and tricky to land on with your approach shots.

The first was a good opener, “MAUNGATAWHIRI” – there was a house on the edge of the fairway looking right at you. I’m sure the poor bugger who lived there has seen his share of golfers in his garden.

A simple little downhill par 4 at 274 metres -an easy way to get going for the day. I had a hard-fought and well earned triple bogey.

Purangi Golf Club is a very well presented golf course and the hole names were interesting enough.

The 2nd was called “Wrecker”, now we know this is a common name around the country for a golf hole. When it appears on the card as the second hole into your round, you have to worry.

There was a creek running through the course, it seemed to appear everywhere. The other natural hazards have to be managed carefully as you work your way around. Thankfully, some of the holes had good directional poles to keep you right. But some joker just put them in the middle of the fairway, which was accurate but may be a waste of a pole.

“The Gap” was truly that with trees offering you a space to find the green 155 Metres from the tee. The green wasn’t welcoming anything left and you are faced with a large drop off and a tricky chip.

The 4th was a long par 5 with the ever-present creek short of the green, guarding the silly 2nd shot aiming the green.

I was really enjoying this course, the surroundings, the difficult choices from tee boxes and tricky approaches all made for proper golf.

The 5th “Devil’s Point” was no Elbow. What the point was only the Devil will know. His plan for me was a double bogey. Scoring here is tough my friends. A nice looking hole only God could have made. I thought right them that there is no Devil just God when he is drunk. It made sense at the time.

“Pine Lake ” was my hole of the day. A par 4 at 327 metres. Firstly the lake of pines to be avoided from the tee were cool enough. A downhill shot at the green needed to avoid the creek ( of course) – an attractive part of the course too.

The 7th was a delightful par 3 ” The Dell” – I found a cool wee bunker next to the green.

Next, I had to mentally wrestle with “Temptation” – a shortish par 5 but needing a belter of a tee shot to an uphill fairway to have a chance to get up to the green in two.

There were Turkeys on the green. I was not surprised by anything that Purangi Golf Club had for me. I bagged a par and was happy with that. The course was teaching me a lesson for sure.

“Punchbowl ” is an uphill 159 Metres to finish you off. A delightful hole with a rustic bunker.

Well done to the team at Purangi Golf Club, you have a great golf course. I’ll be back when you fill in the creek.

The on-course toilet was presented well, so adding to the excellent day out.

Bay Of Plenty

Ohope Beach Golf Links – It’s an ace for me.

There is a lot to like about Ohope Beach Golf Links. The Ohope beach is arguably the finest stretch of sand in New Zealand, with white sand and views out to the puffing White Island and Whale Island.

Our campervan trip around the rugged and remote Poverty Bay started in Mahia and took in some stunning New Zealand golf. Crossing over into Bay Of Plenty we stopped at the ocean side campground of Ohope Holiday Park.

Luckily for us, the golf course was right next door. The golf course is situated on a slim sliver of land flanked by water on both sides.

I knew little about the 18 holes I was about to encounter. Arriving into the pro shop and looking out over the course, it was a windless day, my attention was perked.

1st Tee

The first is a short but perfect links par 4. The natural undulations of the fairway framed the first drive and the elevated green gave the gift of a wonderful view over the ocean.

1st Green

Bring 2 pairs of Trousers in case you get a Hole in One.

I stood upon the 2nd Tee box with a 6 iron in my hand. Enough club to fly the 174 metres I had to the flag. I struck it perfectly, a tiny wee draw and right at it. And for the first time in my life, it went in, a HOLE IN ONE! You little beauty!

I shared the moment with my wife – which was very special that she was the one I was with. I now will never forget Ohope Beach Golf Links.

Calm down son there are 16 holes to play, it’s hard to concentrate when you are pumped up from the excitement of an Ace. The 3rd is the hardest hole on the course dunes all up the right. The green is elevated and missing it leaves a troublesome pitch.

I felt great on these links, I was planning to buy a home here and play every day. Getting a hole in one every week. I stood on the par 3 4th, looking around at the brilliant views. It was a downhill 198 metres. “I am good at these par 3’s” thinking I can put this in.

The 5 iron was a peach – right on target – I was willing it to go in. 20 feet short, nowhere near!

I birdied the par 5 5th with a bit of swagger. This part of the course heads along the Ohiwa Harbour. The 6th also follows the harbour, I began to notice the excellent bunkering the course had. My ball found the deep little pot bunker by the green. Of all the bunkers in all the world, it is quite cool being in a proper links bunker!

The next 3 holes to finish the front 9 are tree-lined and a little bit different from what came before and the back 9 to follow. I had great pride looking at my card for the 9. One over the par 36, it could have been better but I was not caring too much.

The front nine is actually 10, you can pay for 18 or 10 holes here. The 10th is a wicked dogleg with an internal Out of Bounds – like our game isn’t hard enough that you need one of those in your life.

I swept through the next few holes confident and loving the course to bits. The short 11th is 107 metres, a cracking wee target hole. Three bunkers and a two-tiered green make the target feel very small.

I parred 10, 11, and 12. If I could muster a birdie there is a chance I might come home level to the card. Wouldn’t that be something?

Stay in the Moment – Don’t get ahead of yourself.

The 13th was a par 3, I’m good at those and there are back-to-back par 5’s at the 14th and 15th. The chance was right there – 3 bogeys in a row followed – tempering the thought of greatness quickly.

The scoring aside, the last 3 holes are a special way to complete such a great golf course.

The 16th is the classic dogleg that asks you to take on the corner and make the green on the short par 4.

The 17th is the hole of the day for sure – a par 3 over a gully and an impressive dune. The Pacific Ocean and White Island are the backdrops, just spectacular! Onto the Best Holes in New Zealand you go.

18th

The 18th is no slouch, a great view from the tee is worth inhaling. Then smack your final drive as far as you can. The shot up to the clubhouse onto the raised and super tricky green is icing on the cake.

I came home smoking like White Island, equalling my best ever, just 5 over the card. I was very pleased with my work and will always have a place in my heart for Ohope Beach Golf Links. The course has recently rebranded the name, dropped the “International ” ( maybe COVID related?), and added “Beach Golf Links.” It seems a more fitting name, I’m happy with that.

I bought a wee memento from the shop. It will surely give me golfing luck as I take on the rest of the New Zealand golf courses. I’ve just tipped over 20% completed. 314 courses still to go! And some I’ll meet again, Ohope Beach Golf Links will be one of those for sure.