The Waitangi Golf Club is situated on one of the most beautiful and significant peninsulas in New Zealand. A firmly struck 7 iron from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds this is a special place to play golf.
I was staying at the Copthorne Hotel and Resort which is on the peninsula, only a quick run up the hill to the course. A perfect base for this trip to the north.
A friendly welcome in the proshop set us off with spring in our step. I played with a local friend and had a thoroughly great time playing Waitangi Golf Course. Course handicap of 13 today I was keen to post a good score.
The opening 9 holes is very much a parkland feel – plenty of aged trees and no real sign of the water. The downhill first was good to me with an opening par. This nine rolls you around the course and you would be oblivious to the ocean not far from here. There are some nice driving holes on the front 3rd and 5th both frame the surroundings. And 2 good par 3’s – the 9th is particularly challenging up hill into the prevailing wind.
The back 9 is something special, the 10th aims you right into the teeth of the ocean as a par 3 it a lovely hole. The 11th is a local favourite and has been the labour of love for the locals to get it to how it is today. This hole has to been one of the best in New Zealand. A par 5 which is not reachable in 2 for most of us. The green is perched inches from the ocean, just magic.
There is a cool video about this hole check it out here . THE 11TH!
12th looked easy enough a short par 4 – drive-able – surely – I opened the shoulders and got up to the green. On arrival and checking out the hazards around – it made me think I’d never play driver again. Ocean all down the left and bunkers just short to catch you out – this is your classic risk and reward.
The walk around the back nine gives you great views over the Bay of Islands towards Russel. A special special nine holes of golf – I’d forgotten about my score card, out in 44 back in 44 for an 16 over the 72 par.
The best 9 holes of golf course in the land? It felt that way to me. The course is not pristine but in good condition – the location and the design of the back nine make it a winner. If you are anywhere near Waitangi get out and play this golf course.
