Maxwell’s Golf Retreat is 9 holes over 1388 metres. There are 8 par 3’s and 1 (tricky) par 4. The holes vary in distance from 98m to 233m.

I was expecting a nice pitch and putt experience, but what followed at Maxwell’s was a well thought out 9 holes. Don’t be fooled by Maxwell’s, plenty of bunkers maybe 18 of them and water encroaches on 4 holes to keep you honest.

I met Mrs Maxwell herself, a very warm and friendly welcome to her home for the last 20 years. She has built this wonderful corner of the golfing world herself. As a successful golfer in her own right, she has given back in spades to the future of golf in New Zealand.

I had a sense this was a well-loved golf course, it felt like you were playing at someone’s home. Worthy of a spot on the Top 10 NZ 9 Hole Golf Courses.

The 5th is a great hole challenging your shot-making as the water protects a small green. Once that has been mastered the 6th brings you back over the water to my pick of the best looking hole of the day.

The course has subtle elevation changes and sits on 2 hills. A thoroughly enjoyable golfing day out.

The last heading back up to the clubhouse makes you weary with your tee shot, nothing thinned off the tee would be appropriate!

A really good bar and the deck was a good spot for refreshments. The idea this little course would be an easy beat was not the case. Water hazards did their job when required, subtle elevation changes made life difficult and the greens had to be read.

You will enjoy a day out at Maxell’s, I surely did and I’ll be back!