The Christchurch Golf Club has a history stretching back to 1873 and according to our records it's the second oldest golf club in New Zealand.
The Christchurch Golf Club has a history stretching back to 1873 and according to our records it's the second oldest golf club in New Zealand.
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One of the oldest clubs in New Zealand, this club is home to former Open winner Sir Bob Charles. Not mentioned straightaway in the best golf in NZ category, this course has some brilliant design features that for me, make it not only a great test of golf, but an extremely fun course. It also goes by the name of Shirley Links, something that is definitely true considering that an array of chip and run shots, or putting from off of the green are sometimes the best short game options at this track. The 1st is a dogleg right par 4, and has a massive double green, shared with the par 4 17th. (The 3rd is a short par 3 with a massive bowl in the green, followed by the par 5 4th which has a mega false front. There’s a large collection of holes over the road (which is crossed a couple of times), on a different paddock. If there was a criticism of this course it would be that sometimes this can lead to long green to tee walks. The 5th is a long par 4 of which the green complex reminds me of the Road Hole from The Old Course, with a pot bunker on the left and big tier in the green. The 13th is a par 4 which has a pot bunker in the middle of the fairway, completely obscured from view on the tee. I think this hole is controversial with some members, but personally, I loved it! There is plenty of interest in the greens, for example on the 7th, 8th, 11th, 15th and 16th holes, they have a lot of slope. The 17th and 18th are both short par 4s, that force players to work out whether to go for broke at the end of their round or try and protect a score, which also means an interesting finish if you are playing a match. Not that this is taken into consideration for the rating, but this course is immaculately conditioned, and outside of Tara Iti it potentially had the quickest greens I played on during my time in New Zealand.
Josh P
The latest ranking of the Top 100 Golf Courses in the World serves as the ultimate global golf bucket list. Most members of our World Top 100 Panel are seasoned golfers, each playing 20-30 of these courses annually while travelling extensively over decades to form their opinions on others. We recognise that opinions vary—even among our panel members. Rankings are subjective, and there are undoubtedly 50 or more courses in the UK and USA alone that could easily fit onto this list. Links Golf Pilgrimages The rankings
California, United States
New Jersey, United States
Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
New York, United States
New York, United States
New Zealand has quietly assembled one of the world's most compelling collections of golf courses. With five layouts ranked among the global top 100 and a golfing culture that prizes natural terrain over manufactured spectacle, the country punches well above its weight on the international stage. The updated rankings showcase remarkable stability at the top, whilst deeper exploration of both islands has unearthed hidden gems and confirmed the enduring quality of classic designs. These rankings represent the most comprehensive evaluation yet conducted, drawing on a dedicated panel of raters with extensive playing coverage across both the North and South Islands. The assessment prioritises architectural merit, strategic interest, and playing experience over resort amenities, reflecting an evolving appreciation for courses that work with their natural landscapes. The Top 50 Era Continues The updated rankings maintain the Top 50 national format established in recent years, representing the finest courses from a nation that boasts nearly 400 layouts serving approximately 500,000 golfers. Regional rankings have been expanded to include a North Island Top 40 and South Island Top 25, bringing attention to 65 unique courses across the country. Beyond the ranked courses, dozens more provide excellent golf experiences worth exploring. New Zealand's strength lies not in a handful of marquee names but in the breadth of quality across the two islands. Jump to the New Zealand Top 50 Ranking Jump to the New Zealand North Island Top 40 Ranking Jump to the New Zealand South Island Top 25 Ranking 2025 Top 50 At A Glance The Unchanged Elite The top five positions demonstrate unprecedented stability, with all five world-ranked courses maintaining their exact positions from 2024: Tara Iti (No change) - World #21 Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club (No change) - World #91 Te Arai Links (North) (No change) - World #92 Te Arai Links (South) (No change) - World #97 Cape Kidnappers (No change) - World #98 The Rising Stars Ten courses climbed five or more positions, led by dramatic ascents in both islands: Queenstown (Kelvin Heights) - Up 18 places (from #50 to #32) Ohope Beach - Up 12 places (from #33 to #21) Harewood - Up 12 places (from #47 to #35) Otago - Up 9 places (from #35 to #26) Mangawhai - Up 8 places (from #42 to #34) Hastings - Up 7 places (from #37 to #30) Waverley Golf Club - Up 5 places (from #17 to #12) Chisholm Links - Up 5 places (from #29 to #24) Waipu - Up 5 places (from #32 to #27) Poverty Bay - Up 5 places (from #41 to #36) The New Entries Six courses enter the New Zealand Top 50, with South Island venues dominating the newcomers: #37 Cromwell (South Island) #39 Roxburgh (South Island) #40 Nelson (South Island) #42 St Clair (South Island) #44 Invercargill (South Island) #48 Whakatane (North Island) Notable Movements Declines reflect the depth of competition, more playing depth from the panel, and applying updated criteria: Carrington - Down 24 places (from #23 to #47) Pegasus - Down 17 places (from #28 to #45) Millbrook Resort (Remarkables) - Down 16 places (from #22 to #38) Mount Maunganui - Down 14 places (from #36 to #50) Waitara - Down 7 places (from #34 to #41) Wairakei - Down 5 places (from #13 to #18) Best Golf Courses by Island The North Island maintains its numerical advantage with 33 courses (66%) in the Top 50, whilst the South Island contributes 17 layouts (34%). However, this breakdown masks the South Island's quality concentration, with Arrowtown, Jack's Point, and The Hills all positioned within the Top 11. North Island commands the elite tier with eight of the Top 10 courses, including all five world-ranked layouts. The island's strength spans from Tom Doak's masterpieces at Tara Iti and Te Arai to historic gems like Paraparaumu Beach. South Island excels in delivering authentic, terrain-driven golf experiences. The Queenstown region alone accounts for six ranked courses, whilst traditional club layouts in Dunedin, Christchurch, and throughout Central Otago provide compelling alternatives to resort golf. What the Rankings Tell Us The Elite Quintet Remains Untouchable The top five positions remain completely unchanged, although the panel is warming to newcomers at Te Arai. Tara Iti's dominance at number one appears unassailable, whilst the Te Arai courses have firmly established themselves in the conversation about New Zealand's finest layouts. Cape Kidnappers and Paraparaumu Beach occupy their rightful places as world-class destinations. This stability validates the quality assessment and suggests that New Zealand's elite tier has reached a natural equilibrium. Short of a major new development or significant renovation, these five courses will likely define the country's golfing reputation internationally for years to come. Tom Doak's Architectural Dominance American architect Tom Doak's influence on New Zealand golf cannot be overstated. His three courses occupy positions one, three, and five in the national rankings, all appearing in the World Top 100. Tara Iti represents his purest expression of links golf outside the British Isles, whilst Te Arai North has wowed all those who play it. Waverley's Journey from Hidden to Essential Waverley Golf Club's ascent tells one of the ranking's most compelling stories. "Discovered" by Doak's team during the Tara Iti construction and entering the rankings at #31 in 2017 as the "ultimate hidden gem," the course has steadily climbed to #12 in 2025. This progression reflects both growing appreciation for quirky, authentic layouts and the benefits of deeper playing coverage by knowledgeable raters. The secret is well and truly out now. Waverley represents a category of New Zealand golf often overlooked in favour of resort destinations—honest country courses that work with difficult terrain to create memorable golf. Its recognition validates the ranking methodology's emphasis on architectural merit over polish. Queenstown's Kelvin Heights Transformation The most dramatic movement in the 2025 rankings belongs to Queenstown Golf Club's Kelvin Heights course, which surged 18 places from #50 to #32. This isn't the product of recent renovation but rather reflects reassessment by raters who've played the course with fresh eyes and updated evaluation criteria. Kelvin Heights offers a different proposition than Queenstown's high-profile resort courses. The climb suggests growing appreciation for substance over spectacle. South Island Traditional Courses Gain Recognition The influx of five South Island new entries—Cromwell, Roxburgh, Nelson, St Clair, and Invercargill—marks a significant shift in ranking coverage. These aren't flashy resort developments but traditional club courses that have served their communities for generations. Their inclusion reflects the panel's deeper exploration of both islands and willingness to recognise quality regardless of profile. Otago's nine-place leap to #26 similarly confirms that classic parkland designs remain relevant when they offer genuine strategic interest. The course in Dunedin represents a style of golf largely abandoned in favour of links-inspired layouts, yet its challenging terrain and excellent conditioning demonstrate that multiple architectural philosophies can coexist at the top of New Zealand golf. Links Revival in Remote Locations Ohope Beach's 12-place surge to #21 highlights renewed appreciation for raw links experiences in isolated locations. Similarly, Kaitaia, Waipu, and Poverty Bay all rank higher. These venues offer the kind of honest, wind-swept golf increasingly valued by architecture enthusiasts. The Eastern Bay of Plenty, Northland's far north, and the East Cape now feature prominently in trip-planning conversations. Golfers willing to venture beyond Auckland and Queenstown are rewarded with courses that feel untouched by modern trends, where fescue fairways, natural contours, and minimal irrigation create playing experiences closer to Scottish links than manicured resort tracks. A Decade and a Half of Evolution 2010: The Inaugural Rankings The first New Zealand Top 30 in August 2010 established Cape Kidnappers and Kauri Cliffs as the "Big Two," with both courses having transformed the country's international reputation. The rankings also recognised three layouts challenging their dominance: The Kinloch Club (reportedly Jack Nicklaus's favourite of his own designs), The Hills (with its dramatic Canyon 17th hole), and Jack's Point (John Darby's naturalistic masterpiece). Paraparaumu Beach maintained its position as the country's premier links, a distinction it had held since opening in 1949. The course designed by Alex Russell, one-time partner of Alister MacKenzie, represented authentic links golf in the Antipodes long before Tom Doak arrived. 2012: First Expansion The rankings grew to a Top 40, representing approximately 10% of New Zealand's courses. Cape Kidnappers claimed the top spot by the slimmest margin over Kauri Cliffs, whilst Paraparaumu Beach returned to the Top 3 as architects and international publications weighted links courses more heavily in their assessments. Oreti Sands at Southland Golf Club climbed six places to #15 following Greg Turner and Scott Macpherson's redesign, the first of many successful renovations the duo would complete across both islands. Queenstown emerged as a destination powerhouse with five courses in the Top 27. 2013: Continued Growth Expansion to a Top 50 brought ten new entries, including Napier, Cromwell, and Harewood. Pegasus made the rankings' biggest single-year leap, surging from #38 to #21. More significantly, Tom Doak received approval to build Tara Iti on coastal land near Mangawhai, setting in motion the project that would eventually claim the top position. Cape Kidnappers retained its number one ranking for a third consecutive year, confirming its status as New Zealand's benchmark layout. 2015: Renovation Wave Begins The first rankings without new entries saw stability at the top but significant movement further down as Turner and Macpherson's renovation work gained recognition. Royal Wellington burst into the Top 10 at #9 following the duo's complete redesign, featuring trademark undulating greens and stunning new holes built around an existing stream. Waipu and Kaitaia climbed as raw links courses gained favour, whilst anticipation built for Tara Iti's imminent opening. Cape Kidnappers held the summit for a fifth year. 2017: The Tom Doak Revolution Tara Iti entered at #1, immediately dethroning Cape Kidnappers and signalling a new era for New Zealand golf. The course joined the World Top 100 in its debut year, validating the immense expectations that had accompanied construction. Five new entries included two more jumping straight into the Top 10: Wainui at #9 (replacing the former Peninsula Golf Club) and Windross Farm at #23 (Brett Thomson and Phil Tataurangi's design for the relocated Manukau Golf Club). Waverley debuted at #31 as the "ultimate hidden gem," discovered by Doak's construction team. Regional rankings expanded to a North Island Top 40 and South Island Top 20, broadening coverage significantly. 2019: Consolidation and Recognition Tara Iti confirmed its dominance whilst Paraparaumu Beach climbed to #3, displacing Kauri Cliffs to #5. The top five took shape with Te Arai courses yet to debut. Arrowtown made a significant four-place climb to #7, earning praise in The Confidential Guide to Golf Courses for its charm and quirky appeal. Waverley surged 15 places to #16 as word spread about its honest, natural golf. Marton Golf Club entered at #36, whilst the closure of Oreti Sands at Southland eliminated one of the country's most admired links layouts. 2021: The COVID Effect and Te Arai's Arrival Despite international travel restrictions, golf thrived domestically with rounds played up more than 25% in late 2020. The rankings showed nine Top 10 non-movers, suggesting stability in the elite tier. Royal Auckland and Grange's new 27-hole Nicklaus Design layout entered at #10, with the Grange and Tamaki nines forming the premier 18-hole combination. Construction of Te Arai's South course (Coore & Crenshaw) and North course (Tom Doak) promised to add two more world-class layouts within walking distance of Tara Iti. 2024: The Te Arai Trinity Te Arai's courses debuted at #2 (North) and #3 (South), creating an unprecedented concentration of world-ranked golf within 15 kilometres. The three layouts offered complementary experiences: Tara Iti's cerebral links golf, Te Arai North's dramatic journey from coast to forest and back, and Te Arai South's flowing Coore & Crenshaw design. Thirteen new entries joined the expanded Top 60 national rankings. Millbrook's Coronet course entered at #12, Tieke (the redesigned Lochiel) at #16, and The Farm at The Hills (Darius Oliver's par-3 course) at #40. Gulf Harbour closed permanently, whilst Ohope Beach began its ascent with a 12-place climb. Looking Ahead New Zealand golf enters a period of consolidation after the development boom of 2000-2024. Additional major projects are currently underway, suggesting the next ranking cycle will focus on refinement and more debut entries. International travel has fully recovered post-COVID, bringing renewed attention to New Zealand golf from overseas visitors. This exposure could accelerate improvements at courses seeking to attract destination golfers, though hopefully without sacrificing the authentic character that makes New Zealand golf distinctive. The complete New Zealand rankings, including regional listings for the North and South Islands, can be found on the Top 100 Golf Courses website
You don't need a four-figure budget, a private-club connection or an invitation from a member to play a course in the World Top 100. Top100 has collated the 10 cheapest visitor-accessible courses on our current World Top 100 Ranking, based on standard green fees. From a world-class links in Tasmania to a U.S. Open and Ryder Cup venue in New York, these courses offer the chance to play some of the best golf on the planet without the eye-watering green fees attached to many of their World Top 100 counterparts. 1. St Andrews Beach Golf Course (Victoria, Australia) World Ranking: 89th | Australia ranking: 6th | Green fee: A$139 (£74) Tom Doak’s first Australian mainland design, St Andrews Beach opened in 2004 on the Mornington Peninsula and has since become one of the country’s best-value, ranked courses. The public-access layout occupies 175 hectares of former grazing land, with wide fairways, rolling terrain and sandy natural contours that give several holes a links-like feel. Measuring just over 6,000 metres from the back tees, it is playable for a broad range of golfers, though the subtle greens ensure there is still plenty to think about. In a region known for outstanding golf, St Andrews Beach stands out not only for its quality but also for its accessibility, offering everyday golfers the chance to experience a Tom Doak design without the premium price tag often attached to courses of this calibre. 2. Bethpage Black (New York, USA) World Ranking: 58th | USA ranking: 28th | Green fee: From US$140 (£106) Bethpage Black has the rare distinction of being a World Top 100 course, a major championship venue and a public golf course. Located within Bethpage State Park on Long Island, the A.W. Tillinghast design opened in 1936 and has since hosted two U.S. Opens and the 2025 Ryder Cup. The Black is renowned for its difficulty, with narrow fairways, deep rough, large sculpted bunkers and elevated greens making accuracy essential. It is a demanding test, but one that remains remarkably accessible to everyday golfers. That combination of championship pedigree and public access is what makes Bethpage Black so unusual. Few golfers get the chance to play a course of this stature without needing a private-club connection or resort stay. 3. Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club (Wellington, New Zealand) World Ranking: 91st | New Zealand ranking: 2nd | Green fee: NZ$275 (£118) Set on the Kapiti Coast, north of New Zealand's capital city Wellington, Paraparaumu Beach has been one of the country’s most celebrated golf courses since Alex Russell designed it in 1949. The links has hosted 12 New Zealand Opens and has long been regarded as one of the country’s finest layouts. It is a relatively short course by modern championship standards, but the coastal wind, firm fairways, deep bunkers and undulating greens provide plenty of challenge. The split-fairway 17th is a particular highlight, forcing golfers to choose between two very different routes to the green. For international golfers, Paraparaumu offers the chance to experience a genuine piece of New Zealand golfing history without needing access to a private resort. 4. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course (Alberta, Canada) World Ranking: 73rd | Canada ranking: 2nd | Green fee: C$280 (£149) Set among the Canadian Rockies in Jasper National Park, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is one of Stanley Thompson’s most celebrated designs. Opened in 1925, the course winds through the valley beside Lake Beauvert, with snow-capped peaks providing a backdrop to almost every hole. The course combines wide fairways, elevated tees and strategically placed bunkers with the natural contours of the landscape. Thompson’s design rewards thoughtful play rather than simply demanding power, making it a course that can be enjoyed by golfers of different abilities. The result is a rare combination of classic golf and Canadian wilderness, with the surrounding mountains and forest making the journey between shots almost as memorable as the golf itself. 5. Barnbougle - The Dunes Course (Tasmania, Australia) World Ranking: 25th | Australia ranking: 3rd | Green fee: A$285 (£151) Barnbougle Dunes is about as close as Australia gets to a traditional seaside links. Set on Tasmania’s northeast coast, the course was designed by Tom Doak and Australian Mike Clayton and opened in 2004, establishing Barnbougle as one of the country’s premier golf destinations. The layout runs through towering coastal dunes, with wide fairways, natural contours and greens that follow the movement of the land. The wind is an ever-present factor, while the strategic design rewards golfers who think their way around the course rather than simply relying on power. For golfers seeking a genuine links experience outside the British Isles, Barnbougle Dunes is about as compelling as it gets, combining world-class golf with the rugged coastline of Tasmania. 6. Cape Wickham Golf Links (Tasmania, Australia) World Ranking: 47th | Australia ranking: 4th | Green fee: A$315 (£167) Cape Wickham occupies a spectacular stretch of coastline on King Island, sitting in Bass Strait between Tasmania and mainland Australia. Designed by American architect Mike DeVries, the links opened in 2015 and quickly established itself as one of the country's standout modern courses. The course makes the most of its remote coastal setting, with the opening five holes winding around Cape Farewell before the layout moves through sand hills and limestone outcrops. Several holes hug the shoreline, while the closing stretch heads towards the imposing Cape Wickham Lighthouse. The 18th provides a fitting finale, with the fairway doglegging around a sandy bay before reaching the home green, making Cape Wickham a memorable links experience from start to finish. 7. St Enodoc Golf Club - Church Course (Cornwall, England) World Ranking: 49th | England ranking: 4th | Green fee: £175 Set among towering dunes overlooking the Camel Estuary in Cornwall, St Enodoc’s Church Course is one of James Braid’s most distinctive designs. Founded in 1891, the course was transformed by Braid in the early 20th century and remains a spectacularly natural links. It is a relatively short par 69 at 6,010 metres, but its undulating fairways, dramatic elevation changes and formidable dunes create a test that demands imagination. The famous 6th is the standout, with the enormous Himalaya dune obscuring the green and making club selection particularly difficult. The course also has an unusual piece of history, with the 13th hole running alongside the churchyard where poet laureate John Betjeman is buried. 8. South Cape Owners Club (Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea) World Ranking: 63rd | South Korea ranking: 2nd | Green fee: From KRW 350,000 (£195) Set on Namhae Island off the southeast coast of South Korea, South Cape Owners Club is a dramatic Kyle Phillips design where the ocean is visible from all 18 holes. The course opened in 2013 as part of a luxury resort development and has quickly established itself among Asia's most striking modern layouts. The course is framed by granite outcrops, coastal cliffs and rolling terrain, with bluegrass fairways contrasting against fine fescue rough. The standout stretch comes from the 11th onwards, culminating in two spectacular waterside par threes at the 14th and 16th. For golfers willing to make the journey to Namhae Island, South Cape offers a rare combination of world-class golf, dramatic coastal scenery and a luxury resort experience. 9. Utrecht De Pan Golf Club (Utrecht, Netherlands) World Ranking: 56th | Netherlands ranking: 1st | Green fee: From €235 (£198) Dating back to 1894, Utrecht De Pan is the second-oldest golf club in the Netherlands, with Harry Colt designing the current course in 1929. Set in secluded woodland near Utrecht, the layout is a classic heathland course, winding through pine, birch, oak and chestnut trees. De Pan has hosted the Dutch Open three times and is built around strategic rather than power golf. Several of its most memorable holes play over valleys of heather and sand, while the sixth and seventh demand particularly thoughtful tee shots and approaches. Recent restoration work by Frank Pont has helped return the course towards Colt’s original design, making De Pan a fascinating example of Golden Age heathland golf in the Netherlands. 10. Cruden Bay Golf Club - Championship Course (Aberdeenshire, Scotland) World Ranking: 70th | Scotland ranking: 10th | Green fee: From £205 Cruden Bay is one of Scotland’s most distinctive links, winding through towering dunes on the Aberdeenshire coast with the North Sea providing a constant backdrop. The course opened in 1899 after being laid out by Old Tom Morris and Archie Simpson, before Tom Simpson and Herbert Fowler remodelled it in 1926. Cruden Bay makes spectacular use of its natural terrain, with elevated tees, blind drives, punchbowl greens and fairways that rise and fall between the dunes. The 193-yard 4th, played from an elevated tee across a deep hollow, is one of several standout holes. There is plenty of character, too, from driveable par fours and back-to-back par threes to the feeling that every hole reveals something different. It is exactly the sort of course that rewards golfers willing to embrace its quirks. Green fees are based on standard 18-hole visitor rates, using international visitor rates where applicable. All prices are peak-season rates and do not take twilight, off-season or promotional rates into account. Prices are correct at the time of writing and are subject to change.
New Zealand's "coolest little capital" delivers remarkable golf diversity within a surprisingly compact area. Wellington is home to two marquee courses – Royal Wellington Golf Club and Paraparaumu Beach Golf Links, but the region's appeal extends far beyond these headliners. The Kapiti Coast, stretching north from Wellington, contains some of New Zealand's finest linkland built on spectacular sandy dune formations overlooking the Tasman Sea. Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club is set on the Kapiti Coast, which is approximately 40 miles north of Wellington and represents the spiritual home of New Zealand golf. What makes Wellington special for travelling golfers: Accessibility: All courses welcome unaccompanied international visitors seven days a week with booking Exceptional Value: Championship golf for approximately £50-100 (€60-120/$70-140) compared to £300+ at similar-quality courses globally Diverse Terrain: True links, seaside parkland, and river valley courses within 90 minutes of each other Weather Reliability: Golf is possible year-round with no temporary greens or course closures The region perfectly suits golfers seeking authentic New Zealand experiences without the premium pricing of resort destinations. Wellington's working-class golf culture means you'll encounter genuine local hospitality rather than manufactured tourist experiences. Championship Golf in Wellington Wellington's premier courses punch well above their weight internationally, with two courses regularly featured in world rankings and several supporting gems offering exceptional value. Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club - New Zealand's most revered links course sits on magnificent duneland 45 minutes north of Wellington. The host of 12 New Zealand Opens, Paraparaumu Beach, is considered by many to be the spiritual home of New Zealand golf. Designed by Alex Russell in 1949, the course plays firm and fast across rolling volcanic dunes. The legendary 17th hole features a split fairway offering risk-reward options that exemplify strategic design. Green fees are approximately £100 (€120/$140) for international visitors, making it exceptional value for Top 100 world-ranked golf. Royal Wellington Golf Club - The Heretaunga opened in 2013. New Zealand architects, Greg Turner and Scott Macpherson, took land from the existing course, as well as a new parcel of land after trees were cleared by the Hutt River, to create a largely new layout. The new river holes early in the round provide a links-like character, contrasting beautifully with the tree-lined inland holes. Green fees are approximately £80 (€95/$110) for visitors. Royal Wellington Golf Club hosted the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship in 2017. Waikanae Golf Club - Located just 10 minutes north of Paraparaumu, this seaside parkland hybrid offers excellent value at approximately £35 (€40/$50). The course features Scott McPherson's first-ever green design on the eighth hole, inspired by Paraparaumu's famous fifth. Less dramatic than pure links but with interesting holes and friendly hospitality, it makes an ideal complement to the premier courses. Waverley Golf Club -"The little country course that my associates fell in love with was Waverley, it's just $10 or $15 and it's quite a place" says Tom Doak. This extraordinary sheep-maintained course two hours north offers pure country golf at approximately £10 (€12/$15). Waverley is built on black sandy ground and has some fantastic contours and green sites with 300 sheep keeping the fairways trimmed. You'll pay into an honesty box and likely share the course with grazing livestock - authentic New Zealand golf at its most charming. Hidden Gems Worth the Journey Beyond the headline courses, Wellington's region contains several distinctive tracks offering character and value that larger destinations lack. Wanganui Golf Club (Belmont) - Often overlooked despite being 40 minutes from Waverley, this course sits on similar sandy duneland with excellent natural contours. Green fees are approximately £25 (€30/$35), making it exceptional value for links-style golf. The dramatic landscape isn't quite as severe as Waverley but offers fascinating holes and warm hospitality. Miramar Golf Club - Currently transforming 18 holes to a cutting-edge nine-hole facility designed by Scott McPherson. Located literally across from Wellington Airport, this will become New Zealand's first high-end short course with modern practice facilities. Expected to reopen fully in 2025 as a unique urban golf experience, approximately £45 (€55/$65). Kapiti Golf Club - A compact but challenging 68-par course in Paraparaumu offering scenic valley golf at approximately £30 (€35/$40). Perfect for a quick round between championship courses or when weather affects coastal options. Sample Itinerary: 4-Day Wellington Golf Adventure Day 1 - Arrival & City Exploration Fly into Wellington Airport (rental car pickup recommended). Check into accommodation and spend the afternoon exploring central Wellington. Walk Cuba Street for craft beer tasting and dinner. Visit Te Papa museum if time permits. Day 2 - Royal Wellington & Hutt Valley Morning round at Royal Wellington Golf Club in Upper Hutt (book 8:00 am tee time). Explore the redesigned river holes and parkland character. Lunch at the clubhouse overlooking the course. Afternoon free for Wellington city activities or rest. Evening dinner on Cuba Street. Day 3 - Paraparaumu Beach & Kapiti Coast Early departure for Kapiti Coast (45-minute drive). Championship round at Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club - book the earliest available tee time for optimal conditions. Take time to appreciate the strategic design and coastal views. Lunch at Salt & Wood barbecue in Paraparaumu township. Day 4 - Waverley Adventure Early morning drive to Waverley (2.5 hours north). Experience sheep-maintained golf in spectacular duneland - pay the honesty box fee and enjoy this unique course. Lunch in Waverley township. Seasonal Variations: Summer (December-February) offers the longest days and warmest weather. Autumn (March-May) provides excellent conditions with fewer crowds. Winter play remains viable with shorter days but reliable course conditions. Wellington Travel Logistics Getting There and Getting About Most international visitors arrive via Auckland with connecting flights to Wellington, taking 75-90 minutes. Air New Zealand and Jetstar operate frequent services costing £40-120 (€50-145/$60-170) depending on booking timing. In Wellington, the summers are comfortable, the winters are cold and wet, and it is windy and partly cloudy year-round, but golf remains playable throughout the year. Rental Car Essential: Public transport doesn't serve golf courses effectively beyond central Wellington. Major rental companies operate from Wellington Airport with expanded facilities. Book well in advance during high season (November-April) as availability becomes limited and prices increase significantly. Weather & Packing: Wellington is known as one of the windiest cities in the world, averaging 178 days annually with winds exceeding 63km/h. Pack wind-resistant outer layers regardless of season. In Wellington, temperatures are generally consistent with daytime temperatures ranging from a pleasant 19°C in February to a moderate 13°C in July. Equipment Considerations: Most courses offer rental clubs, but selection may be limited. Bringing your own equipment is recommended for serious golfers. Club freight services operate from major airports if travelling light initially. Communication: English is spoken universally. Mobile coverage is excellent throughout Wellington region. Most courses accept credit cards but carry cash for honesty box courses like Waverley. Golf Protocols: New Zealand golf culture is relaxed and welcoming. Dress codes exist, but are casual compared to traditional clubs elsewhere. Walking is preferred and widely practised. Caddies are not available except by special arrangement at premium resorts. Where to Stay for Wellington Golf Central Wellington Hotels suit golfers wanting city experiences between rounds. InterContinental Wellington and similar properties offer luxury accommodation for approximately £150-250 (€180-300/$210-350) nightly. Mid-range options like Bolton Hotel provide excellent value at £80-120 (€95-145/$110-170). Kapiti Coast Accommodation provides strategic positioning for northern courses. Numerous Airbnb properties and holiday homes offer character accommodation for approximately £60-100 (€70-120/$85-140) nightly. This positioning reduces daily driving while accessing Paraparaumu Beach and northern courses. Budget-Friendly Options include Wellington's excellent backpacker hostels and motels. YHA Wellington and similar facilities offer clean, comfortable accommodation for approximately £25-40 (€30-50/$35-55) nightly. New Zealand's motel culture provides reliable mid-range options throughout the region. Rural Stays near courses like Waverley offer authentic Kiwi experiences. Farm stays and country B&Bs provide insight into local life, approximately £50-80 (€60-95/$70-110) nightly, including hearty breakfasts. Booking Strategy: Summer accommodation books quickly, particularly at weekends. Shoulder seasons offer better availability and rates. Many properties have minimum stay requirements during peak periods. Wellington's Culinary Scene Wellington rightfully claims the title of New Zealand's food and culture capital, with Cuba Street forming the epicentre of the city's dining excellence, with dozens of exceptional restaurants within walking distance. The street's eclectic mix includes everything from intimate wine bars to bustling cafes. Most establishments operate walk-in policies for parties under eight, making spontaneous dining easy for golf travellers. Regional specialities focus heavily on exceptional seafood given Wellington's coastal location. Green-lipped mussels, paua (abalone), and crayfish feature prominently on menus. Local lamb and beef maintain excellent reputations globally. Craft Beer Culture thrives with Wellington breweries gaining international recognition. Garage Project and Parrot Dog represent the city's innovative brewing scene, with their products available throughout golf club bars region-wide. The Parrot Dog brewery near the airport makes an ideal stop for departing visitors. Post-Round Dining varies by location. Paraparaumu's Salt & Wood barbecue offers exceptional pulled pork and brisket with a deep craft beer selection. Wellington's competitive restaurant scene offers excellent value compared to similar-quality international destinations. Booking Golf in Wellington Advance Planning: Championship courses require booking 1-4 weeks ahead during peak season (December-March). Royal Wellington and Paraparaumu Beach maintain busy schedules but accommodate visitors with reasonable notice. Mid-week rounds offer better availability and sometimes reduced rates. Tee Time Strategy: Early morning starts provide optimal conditions and pace of play. Weekend rounds fill quickly with member play. Seasonal demand peaks during school holidays (December-January and July). Package Opportunities: Some accommodation providers offer golf packages, including green fees and transfers. Independent booking often provides better flexibility and course selection. Weather Contingencies: Wellington's changeable weather occasionally affects play but rarely causes complete cancellations. Courses maintain excellent drainage and year-round conditioning. Rain typically moves through quickly due to prevailing winds. Local Booking Tips: Contact courses directly rather than third-party websites for the best rates Mention international visitor status - some courses offer special rates Inquire about replay rates for afternoon rounds Payment Methods: Most courses accept major credit cards. Carry cash for unique venues like Waverley's honesty box system. Green fees are typically payable on arrival rather than in advance. Explore Beyond Golf Cultural Attractions centre around Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum, offering interactive exhibits on Maori culture, natural history, and contemporary art. The museum sits prominently on Wellington's waterfront and requires 2-3 hours for comprehensive visits. Lord of the Rings Tourism remains popular with Weta Workshop tours providing behind-the-scenes insights into movie production. Several filming locations around Wellington offer scenic walks and photo opportunities for movie enthusiasts. Natural Beauty includes the Wellington Botanic Garden, accessible via historic cable car, offering city views and native plant displays. The South Coast provides rugged coastline walks and seal viewing opportunities during breeding seasons. Parliament Tours showcase New Zealand's political system with guided visits through the distinctive Beehive building. Tours operate most weekdays and provide insights into the country's governance. Craft Brewery Tours can be self-guided along Cuba Street and the surrounding areas, or organised through local operators. Wellington's compact size makes brewery hopping practical on foot. Day Trip Options include the Wairarapa wine region, 90 minutes east, famous for Pinot Noir and cellar door experiences. Ferry services to the South Island depart from Wellington for scenic Cook Strait crossings. Insider Local Knowledge Common Visitor Mistakes to Avoid: Underestimating Wellington's wind - always pack wind-resistant clothing Booking accommodation without considering the golf course locations Overlooking smaller courses like Waverley in favour of famous names only Local Advantages: Kiwi golfers appreciate international visitors Course conditions remain excellent year-round due to the mild climate Walk-up tee times are sometimes available on weekdays Cultural Etiquette: New Zealand golf culture is refreshingly egalitarian. Dress codes exist, but aren't stuffy. Sharing post-round drinks is common and welcomed. Local golfers often work in trades or government positions, creating a genuine working-class atmosphere. Strategic Planning: Wellington's compact size allows multiple course experiences within short distances Weather changes rapidly Combining golf with Wellington's cultural attractions creates well-rounded experiences Budget Planning & Travel Value Championship Course Fees range from approximately £80-100 (€95-120/$110-140) for Royal Wellington and Paraparaumu Beach, respectively. These rates represent exceptional value compared to similar-quality courses internationally, where green fees often exceed £300. Supporting Course Costs vary from £10 for Waverley's honesty box to £45 for redesigned facilities like Miramar. Most quality courses charge £25-40 (€30-50/$35-55), making golf tourism highly affordable. Value Enhancement Strategies: Shoulder season travel (March-May, September-November) reduces accommodation costs Money-Saving Opportunities: Mid-week golf rounds are sometimes discounted Replay rates are available at some courses for afternoon golf Currency Considerations: New Zealand Dollar typically favours international visitors from the UK, Europe, and the USA. The combination of affordable green fees, reasonable accommodation costs, and compact geography makes Wellington an exceptional value for serious golf tourism. Four days of championship golf costs less than a single round at comparable courses elsewhere globally.
