International golf vacations run in my veins.  All of my family are golfers and every year we rendezvous somewhere in the world to play a round or two and meet the locals.  Of all our travels, New Zealand absolutely exceeded our expectations for golfing (and being an Aussie, its hard to admit this).  New Zealand offers golf for every level of enthusiast, and more often than not, luxurious accommodations with incredible hospitality are on site or just moments away.  

The most important thing to remember when golfing in New Zealand is a golf course has ten personalities on any given day, and the scenery is just as dramatic as the layout of the course.  So even if your reason for traveling is not purely golf, you'll feel like you saw New Zealand, especially if you pair up with some locals. 

Your greatest battle could be choosing which course to play.  Here are my top 10 choices and reasons why you should play them:

1.         Kauri Cliffs

Both Conde Nast and Travel + Leisure named Kauri Cliffs the best lodge in Australiasia in 2011.  It has hosted The Kiwi Challenge. 

2.         Cape Kidnappers 

The 16th Par 5 offers incredible views.  The clubhouse is designed like a New Zealand shearing shed, and the onsite luxury resort makes this a complete destination.
  

3.         Jack's Point 

Located outside 'must see' Queenstown, a newer course, with the stunning Remarkables Mountains for a back drop.  A great day out.

4.         Millbrook Resort 

Great destination luxury resort outside Queenstown.   27 holes, a wonderful spa and excellent dining on site which reflect the French history.
  

5.         Clearwater Golf Course 

Home of the New Zealand Open, plenty of trout-filled streams and a true links style.  Playable year round. Five tee positions made it great for all players abilities.

6.         Terrace Downs 

A great stopover point in the high country South Island.  Golf in the morning, and you can be salmon and trout fishing in the afternoon.  Jet boating, hiking, horse riding also available.

7.         Kinloch

For the historic golfer, this course is for you.  It is steeped in tradition, beautiful wide open fairways.  A pleasure to play.

8.         Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club

A true links style and only 45 minutes from Wellington.  On many golfer's bucket list.  Challenging!

9.         The Hills

Located outside Queenstown, a by invitation experience, of the same caliber with Leopard Creek, South Africa.  Statues crafted by New Zealand artists are located throughout the course.

10.       Wairakei Golf Course and Sanctuary 

Located within the Wairakei Geothermal Park on the North Island, the focus on returning the vegetation back to its original state.  The Pouwhenua pole carving at the entrance displays the strong Maori culture in the area.

One of the other hidden benefits about golfing in New Zealand is the fact that several of the golf courses are located in regions with amazing vineyards.

Many of our staff at Down Under Endeavours are avid golfers and love their wine.  Contact them today  and allow them to design you a special itinerary to the countries we know best, Australia and New Zealand!

Here is a sample itinerary:

http://www.downunderendeavours.com/itn_exclusive-nz-golf.php

And here are some more:

Read about our client Tom’s adventure golfing at Cape Kidnappers!

http://blog.downunderendeavours.com/2009/06/22/New-Zealand-Golf-Packages-luxury-golf-travel.aspx