New Zealand is a compact country of two main islands stretching 990 miles from north to south and up to 250 miles from east to west. With a relatively small population of just over 5.5 million people, there’s plenty of room in this natural and spectacular land for fairways and greens.
All told, New Zealand has nearly 400 golf courses, spread evenly from one end of the country to the other, making it second in the world for courses per capita. The thin coastal topography of the land, coupled with its hilly interior, has produced a rich legacy of varied courses—from classical seaside links to more traditional parkland courses further inland, and even dramatic alpine layouts.
Over the past 20 years, New Zealand's golfing landscape has been greatly enhanced by the work of world-class architects such as Tom Doak, Robert Trent Jones Jr., Jack Nicklaus, and David Harman, who have designed at least 12 courses complete with five-star accommodation and cuisine. Strategically located near either snow-capped mountains or isolated coastal stretches (and in some cases both), these locations provide not only superb natural backdrops for playing golf but also the added bonus of breathtaking scenery.
If you're a golfer seeking both challenge and beauty, New Zealand should be at the top of your list. Here are four must-play courses that showcase the best of what New Zealand has to offer: Te Arai Links, Cape Kidnappers, Jack’s Point, and Millbrook.
1. Te Arai Links: A New Coastal Gem
Te Arai Links, located on the North Island, is New Zealand’s newest golf treasure. Opened in 2022, the course has quickly gained a reputation for its world-class design and stunning location. Positioned along the pristine Pacific coastline, Te Arai offers golfers an authentic links experience, complete with firm fairways, undulating greens, and dramatic seaside views. The wind is a constant companion here, adding a layer of complexity to each round, while the design encourages creativity with shot-making. For those looking for a pure golfing experience, Te Arai Links is an essential stop and only 90mins drive from Auckland.
2. Cape Kidnappers: Golf on the Edge of the World
Perched high atop dramatic cliffs that plunge into the Pacific Ocean, Cape Kidnappers Golf Course is both a thrilling and awe-inspiring place to play. Situated on the North Island near Napier, the course was designed by renowned architect Tom Doak. Cape Kidnappers’ layout follows the contours of the land, offering spectacular views from every hole, but the signature feature is its precarious cliff-top fairways. A round at Cape Kidnappers will test your accuracy and focus, as many holes border sheer drops that seem to fall away into the sea below. The experience of playing here is unmatched—this is golf at its most exhilarating. 3. Jack’s Point: The Jewel of Queenstown
On the South Island, Queenstown is known for its adventure sports, but it’s also home to one of New Zealand’s most dramatic golf courses—Jack’s Point. Nestled beneath the towering Remarkables mountain range and beside Lake Wakatipu, Jack’s Point offers a challenging yet fair round of golf amid spectacular natural beauty. The course blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, incorporating native tussock grasses, rocky outcrops, and pristine waterways. With its unique location and thoughtful design, Jack’s Point is often considered one of the world’s most scenic courses, making it a bucket-list destination for golf lovers.
4. Millbrook Resort: A Championship Course in an Alpine Setting
Located just outside Queenstown, Millbrook Resort offers a golf experience that combines luxury with championship-level play. Millbrook features a 27-hole course, with three distinct nines designed to challenge golfers of all levels. Set in a serene valley surrounded by mountains, the course is known for its immaculate conditioning and strategic layout. With a mix of wide fairways, tricky water hazards, and challenging greens, Millbrook offers variety and challenge. Whether you're looking to hone your skills or enjoy a relaxing round in a peaceful setting, Millbrook is a golfer's paradise.
Beyond the Greens: Exploring New Zealand’s Beauty
One of the greatest joys of golfing in New Zealand is the opportunity to explore the country's unparalleled natural beauty and diverse experiences. Between rounds, golfers can enjoy everything from wine tasting in the Hawke’s Bay region to adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, or jet boating in Queenstown. For those who want to make the most of their trip, consider combining golf with a visit to Australia, where more world-class courses and iconic destinations await.
Tee Off in New Zealand
New Zealand offers some of the most stunning and challenging courses in the world. With the likes of Te Arai Links, Cape Kidnappers, Jack’s Point, and Millbrook, you’ll find not only world-class golf but an unforgettable experience set against jaw-dropping landscapes. Golfing in New Zealand is more than just a game—it’s an adventure.
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