Created by John Darby and Bob Charles, the course at the Millbrook Resort opened in 1992 – seven years before its co-designer, the 1963 Open Champion, was knighted.
Created by John Darby and Bob Charles, the course at the Millbrook Resort opened in 1992 – seven years before its co-designer, the 1963 Open Champion, was knighted.
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The resort now boasts 27 holes of championship golf, with the possibility of another 9 holes in the planning stages.
The original course was designed by Kiwi golfing legend Bob Charles in conjunction with John Darby, and opened for play in 1992.
In 2010 Turner & McPherson introduced another 9 holes, and renovated the existing Bob Charles course. Currently there are 3 distinct nine hole courses:
The Remarkables nine holes were all part of the original course designed by Bob Charles, and still retain the look and feel of the original course, although Turner & McPherson added some bunkering and tweaked the course a little. It is beautifully maintained and visually striking as the course is set in a natural amphitheatre with those lovely alpine backdrops… Charles chose to site the course so that most of the fairways are on flattish ground in the valley (the old wheat fields), and a majority of tees AND greens are on elevated ledges. Charles was an exceptionally good golfer, and was known for hitting the ball long and straight. His golf holes tend to reflect his style in that the holes require long straight hitting. Quite often you will drive from an elevated tee to a relatively straight treelined fairway below you, and then approach a green sitting in the hillside ahead of you. Turner and McPherson have attempted to add some interest and strategy to the course by introducing more central fairway bunkering but overall the course retains that old world character. It is perfect for professional golf, as the professionals love flat lies, and greens without too much complication. For the amateur it is a nice place to play, but can be quite difficult, and does not offer much in the way of strategic decisions.
The Arrow nine holes was also based predominantly on the Bob Charles course with revision by Turner McPherson. The first 5 holes of the Arrow are quite different from The Remarkable nine in that the land is almost entirely flat- so no elevated tees or greens. These 5 holes are relatively straight treelined holes, and in my opinion a step below the quality of the rest of the resort course - there is simply is not enough interesting territory to negotiate. Nevertheless each hole is nice to play, and well maintained, it’s just not memorable! The last 4 holes of this 9 are a different story- Turner and McPherson have been given a free hand here and created entirely new holes to finish the 9. These holes are a matching set with the newer Coronet nine. The design is much more modern and strategic, and the bunkering and green complexes demand your attention. Decisions have to be made about whether to lay up (6th), go for the green (7th), which club to approach the green with (8th )….. Turner may not have got it all right but in my mind it is much more interesting to play. I particularly liked the very short par 4 eighth hole where one can hit a putt or wedge with the short approach to the green. It is a very short hole, and a difficult little par The key is the severe green This is a hole I could play over and over to sort out the angle and method of approach, and of course that would change with a change of pin position… I liked these 4 holes by Turner, although his strategic designs like 6 and 7 could be tweaked to better match the objectives of the design.
The latest nine holes – The Coronet – was entirely a Turner McPherson design. The design strategies are very good, but sometimes miss the mark. In my opinion the green complexes need a little softening in parts on holes 2, 3, 5, and maybe 8. The third hole is a strong long par 4 in a spectacular setting. Most will be approaching the green with everything they have to a green heavily protected by slope and bunkering. It is my opinion that such a hole does NOT require a severe green as well! The short par four, fourth hole is intended to give players options to play but instead most hit the same shot every time- the detail in the build does not quite match the intended strategy. Nevertheless the Coronet nine has a lot to recommend it. The holes do ask you to make decisions, and the routing of the nine heads through interesting territory I like it and it is my preferred nine at Millbrook.
Peter Wood is the founder of The Travelling Golfer – click the link to read his full review.
Peter Wood
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
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.
Top 100 has launched its podcast series hosted by our own James Henderson called Top 100 Clubhouse. James' unique approach often explores the people behind the places we love to visit and play. What Are The Top 100 Clubhouse Podcasts About? Top 100 Clubhouse is the ultimate podcast for golf enthusiasts! Join us as we delve deep into the minds of fascinating individuals from every corner of the golfing world. From players to course designers, caddies to golf historians, we'll leave no stone unturned in our quest to share unique insights and experiences with the Top100 Community. Together we'll explore the stunning courses and breathtaking landscapes, enjoying the unforgettable stories that bring the game of golf to life. How Do I Listen To The Latest Top 100 Clubhouse Podcast? You can download and listen on the following links. Listen now, wherever you download your podcast! Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcast Podtail Who Should Be Our Next Guest? Top 100 members can share their views on who should join the next Top 100 Clubhouse podcast show. If you have an idea who you would like to hear, why not drop our Top 100 Clubhouse host James Henderson an email at: james@top100golfcourses.com Latest 2025 Top 100 Clubhouse Episodes Episode 62: Ru McDonald, Cruden Bay and Scottish Golf In this week's pod, Ru McDonald (Formerly DP World Tour Social Media Manager) joins Jasper to discuss his home club of Cruden Bay, his new golf holiday rental business, and golf in Scotland more broadly. Listen on Apple Podcasts Episode 61: DJ Piehowski In this episode, No Laying Up's DJ Piehowski joins the podcast to discuss his journey in the golf industry. He then gives us his thoughts on the latest goings on around the golfing world (TGL, PGA Tour/LIV unification, The distance debate etc), and his favourite courses from the last few years of travel. Listen on Apple Podcasts Episode 60: 2025 PGA Show In the last few weeks, James & Jasper headed to Orlando to explore the PGA Show. In this episode, they discuss their thoughts on the experience, and some broader themes in the golf industry. Listen on Apple Podcasts Episode 59: The Valley Course at Royal Portrush In this episode, Jasper sits down with Gary McNeill (head pro at Royal Portrush) to discuss the changes on the Valley Course and what it will be like when it reopens next year. Listen on Apple Podcasts Episode 58: Brett Hochstein - Building a Career in Golf Course Design In this episode, Jasper is joined by golf course designer Brett Hochstein. He discusses how his career got off to a rocky start during the 2008 Financial Crash and how he used that time to develop skills in greenkeeping and course management. He also discusses his recent input at various golden-age courses, including Pasatiempo. Listen on Apple Episode 57: Golf in New Zealand In this episode, Jasper joins James to discuss his recent trip to New Zealand and the golf scene on the North Island. He discusses Te Arai, Tara Iti & Waverley, among others. Listen on Apple Episode 56: The Most Golf Courses Play In A Year? In this podcast, Jasper is joined by Josh Simpson (AKA The Ginger Golfer) to discuss his 2025 attempt to break the Guinness World Record for most golf courses played in a year. Listen on Apple Episode 55: Walton Heath Golf Club James & Jasper got the chance to visit the beautiful Walton Heath, in Surrey, and recorded a brief 15 minute chat in their historic clubhouse. Listen on Apple Episode 53: Royal Burgess Golf Club - The Oldest in the World James chats to two members of Royal Burgess (Willie Finlayson & Dr Douglas Stuart) about the history of this great golf club. Listen on Apple 2024 Top 100 Clubhouse Episodes Episode 52: USA Rankings Update In this episode, Jasper & James discuss our latest Top 100 USA list, and the big runners and riders. They also discuss the future of golf course architecture, and some industry trends to look out for in 2025 and beyond. Listen on Apple Episode 51: Lockhart Travel Club In this week's podcast, James welcomes David Davis (CEO Of Top 100 Golf Courses) to the podcast, to talk about The Lockhart Travel Club. It is a sister company of Top 100, and provides members with the opportunity to play world class golf all around the world, and meet like minded golfers. Listen on Apple Episode 50: Year in Review In this episode, James & Jasper reflect on their golf course highlights of 2024, and look ahead to Top100's 2025 plans. Listen on Apple Episode 49: Forward Golf - The Next Evolution in Club Fitting In this episode, Jasper is joined by Chris Birch, who is the first person in the UK to adopt the Foreward Golf model of club fitting. They discuss what the method involves, and why it can be more effective than traditional, manufacturer led club fitting. Listen Here Episode 47: Sunningdale New with Adrian Pepper In this first episode with Adrian Pepper, he gives an introduction into why he has decided to write a book on the history of the New Course, for it's centenary. Part One Part Two Episode 46: CA & NY Rankings In this episode, James & Jasper discuss the recent release of new Top 100 lists in California and New York. They go through some of the social media response to the lists, and outline some of the work that goes into creating them. Listen on Apple Episode 45: Evan Olauson - Maintaining Golf Greywolf This week, Evan Olauson joins the podcast to discuss how he is able to maintain Greywolf Golf Course in the Rocky Mountains through the long Canadian winter. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 44: Brian Schneider - Building Old Barnwell In this episode, golf course architect Brian Schneider joins James & Jasper to discuss the building and development of Old Barnwell. He also discusses his background in golf, and his work on recreating The Lido. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 43: The President's Cup Of Golf Course Architecture In this episode, James & Jasper take charge the US and international Teams respectively, and are charged with choosing a golf course from each player's home country/state. Who would win in a President's Cup Of Golf Courses? Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 42: Beau Welling - Working with Tiger Woods In this episode of The Top100 Clubhouse, James is joined by golf course architect Beau Welling to discuss his illustrious career, his relationship with Tiger Woods, and his involvement in the PGA Tour's TGL project which is due to begin next January. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 41: Robin Sieger - Silent Mind Golf In this episode of The Clubhouse, James is joined by Robin Sieger, and they discuss the psychological side of playing golf. They also chat about some of Robin's favourite courses, and his golf-related world record! Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episodes 39 & 40: John Low - Golf Course Architectrure's Forgotten Man In this episode of The Top 100 Clubhouse, James and Jasper are joined by Golf Historian Bob Crosby, to discuss the life and legacy of John Low. He was an influential figure in shaping the direction of golf course architecture, and yet he is little known today. Listen To Episode 39 (Part One) Here Apple Podcasts Listen To Episode 40 (Part Two) Here Apple Podcasts Episode 38: Christine Fraser - A Fresh Perspective on Golf Course Architecture In this episode, James and Jasper are joined by Christine Fraser to discuss her unique perspective on golf course architecture. She began her career with Martin Hawtree in the South East of England and now runs her own company where she looks to use golf course architecture to drive meaningful change in communities. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 37: Jasper Miners - Introducing the Editor of Top 100 Golf Courses In this episode, James is joined by the newest member of the Top100 team, Jasper Miners (AKA @Evalu18Golf), to discuss the world of golf course architecture, and what is coming next for Top100. Listen in, and let us know in the comments what you would like to see next from Top100 Golf Courses. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 36: Wilma Erskine OBE - Bringing The Open to Royal Portrush In this episode James Henderson is joined by Wilma Erskine OBE, BEM. Wilma was the manager at Royal Portrush Golf Club for 35 years, and played a key role in bringing the Open Championship back to Northern Ireland in 2019. Wilma shares some fascinating insights into golf club management and explains how Royal Portrush has progressed from the dark days of the Troubles, into one of the highest-ranked courses in the world. We hope you enjoy! Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 35: Part 4 - Northern Irish Golf Road Trip: Royal County Down In the final episode from our NI Golf Road Trip, James chats to the legendary Kevan Whitson; The head professional at Royal County Down Golf Club. They talk about Kevan's route to the game, the club's history and what makes the course so special. Check out the accompanying videos on our YouTube channel. Search 'Top 100 Golf Courses' on YouTube. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 34: Part 3 - Northern Irish Golf Road Trip: Portstewart Golf Club In the third episode of our new series, the Top100 Golf Courses team visit Portstewart Golf Club. James Henderson chats with General Manager, David MacLaren.Make sure to watch video reviews of each course on our YouTube channel, and keep an eye out for the rest of our Northern Irish Golf Road Trip series! Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 33: Part 2 - Northern Irish Golf Road Trip: Castlerock Golf Club In the second episode of our new series, the Top100 Golf Courses team visit Castlerock Golf Club. James Henderson chats with Caddy Master Gordon Patterson, and Head Pro Robert Irvine. Make sure to watch video reviews of each course on our YouTube channel, and keep an eye out for the rest of our Northern Irish Golf Road Trip series! Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 32: Part 1 - Northern Irish Golf Road Trip: Royal Portrush In the first episode of our new series, the Top100 Golf Courses team visit the Dunluce Links at Royal Portrush Golf Club. This venue will play host to the 2025 Open Championship, and in this episode, James Henderson chats with Gary McNeill (head pro at Royal Portrush) about the preparation required to host such a prestigious tournament. Make sure to watch video reviews of each course on our YouTube channel, and keep an eye out for the rest of our Northern Irish Golf Road Trip series! Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 31: Why is Augusta National 12th in our World Rankings? A special episode to discuss why Augusta National is ranked 12th in our Top100golfcourses.com World Rankings! Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 30: Matt Adamski - General Manager at Sweetens Cove In this episode James Henderson is joined by Matt Adamski, who is the GM at Sweetens Cove in Tennessee, USA. He talks about how he got the job, and how the interview experience was in stark contrast to all of his prior experience in the golf industry. He talks about the merchandise offering from 'the shed', the course itself, and what makes the Sweetens experience so special. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 29: Tyler Rae - Golf Course Architect & Donald Ross Expert In this episode, James is joined by renowned golf course architect Tyler Rae. Tyler has worked on many high profile restoration projects, and also works on original courses. In this episode he talks through the challenges and joys of working in this industry, and expounds on what makes golf so special to him. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 28: Ryan Fox We welcome Ryan Fox to the Top 100 Clubhouse. Ryan a pro golfer currently ranked 41st in the world and 1st in New Zealand. He talks about how the All Blacks rugby team, most notably his legendary father Grant, have impacted his golfing career. We discuss his experience playing on the PGA Tour of Australasia, the Asian Tour and the European Tour, as well as New Zealand's rise to becoming a leading golf destination. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 27: Colin Burns - Managing Winged Foot In the first new episode of 2024 James is joined by Colin Burns, the former GM at Winged Foot Golf Club. They have a wide ranging discussion about managing a prestigious golf club, hosting a US Open during Covid and Colin's favourite golf courses. Listen Here Apple Podcasts 2023 Top 100 Clubhouse Podcast Releases Episodes 24-26: 2023 Year-End Review - Parts 1-3 This week on Top 100 Clubhouse James Henderson, Simon Holt and David Davis get together to carry out a review of the 2023 golfing year! They chat about the amazing courses they have visited in the past 12 months, and discuss the places you should be adding to your golfing itinerary in 2024! Listen to Part 1 Apple Podcasts Listen to Part 2 Apple Podcasts Listen to Part 3 Apple Podcasts Episode 23: Josh Ralston - Saudi Arabian Involvement In Golf In this week's episode of The Clubhouse James is joined by Josh Ralston (a professor at Edinburgh University). They discuss the ongoing LIV/PGA Tour negotiations, and why Saudi Arabia decided to get involved in golf in the first place. They also talk through Josh's favourite courses from around the world on the back end. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 22: Allesandra Kutz - Being A Female Club Fitter & Playing England's Top100 In this episode of The Clubhouse, James is joined by Allesandra Kutz. Allesandra played high-level golf at college but then fell out of love with the game. Recently, she got the bug again and is now trying to crack England's Top100 Golf Courses and document her journey. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 21: Kyle Cruickshank - Course Manager at The North Berwick Golf Club This week we welcome Kyle Cruickshank to the Top 100 Clubhouse. Kyle's a fascinating individual who's worked all over the world from Royal Melbourne to Muirfield and is now the course manager at the fantastic North Berwick. We discuss his career journey so far, the current renovations taking place at North Berwick, and his Top 5 Favourite Courses. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 20: Jim Rohrstaff - Te Arai Links In this episode of The Clubhouse, our CEO (Simon Holt) is in New Zealand for a golf trip. He checks in with Jim Rohrstaff, the managing director at Te Arai links, to chat about the incredible visitor experience, their favourite holes and much more. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 19: Nordic Special - Frode Hov (Lofoten Links) & Per G. Nyman (Växjö Golf Club) In this episode of 'Top100 Clubhouse' James is joined by Frode Hov, the driving force behind the sensational Lofoten Links in Norway. They discuss what makes Lofoten such a special place, and why it's a must-visit for any golf course lover! Next, James chats to Swedish pro golfer Per G. Nyman about his time competing on the European Tour and Challenge Tour, and how he then made the move from pro golf to golf course management, he's currently managing Växjö Golf Club in Sweden. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 18: David McLay Kidd - Designing The Castle Course & Dealing With Controversy In this episode of 'The Clubhouse' James is joined by a Scottish golf architecture legend; David McLay Kidd. The Glasgow-born Kidd founded DMK Golf Design in 2000, and ultimately went on to design incredible (but sometimes divisive) courses such as Bandon Dunes, St. Andrews (Castle) & Gamble Sands in Washington State. In this interview, James talks to him about his life in golf, and how he approaches/thinks about course design. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 17 - Matt Ward - Journalist at 100 Major Championships & 12 Ryder Cup's This week we welcome golf journalist Matt Ward to the Clubhouse. Matt is the top reviewer on top100golfcourses.com, he's played over 2000 golf courses, and written 831 reviews! As a journalist, Matt has attended 100 Majors and 12 Ryder Cup's, and has interviewed countless high-profile golfers. In this wide-ranging interview, Matt discusses his prestigious career, the game's all-time great players, and sheds light on what makes a top golf course. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 16: Patrick Koenig - Breaking World Records With The RGV Golf Tour This week, legendary golf photographer Patrick Koenig joins us in the Clubhouse. We discuss his current endeavour on the RGV golf tour, where he has broken the world record for most 18-hole rounds of golf played in a year. He also discusses some of his favourite courses and locations from years of travel as a photographer. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 15: John Caven - St. George's Golf and Country Club This week we welcome John Caven to the Clubhouse. John is the General Manager at St. George's Golf and Country Club in Ontario, Canada. He previously worked at the exclusive Loch Lomond Golf Club and has a lot to say about life in the golf industry and what it takes to host professional events in the current climate. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 14: David Davis: International Golf Course Rater & Co-Founder of The Lockhart Travel Club This week we welcome David Davis to the Clubhouse. David is a Partner at Top100golfcourses.com and Co-Founder of The Lockhart Travel Club. The 43rd person to finish playing the World Top 100 (November 2018). A true golf travel and golf course architecture enthusiast who has been a golf course panelist and international course rater for over 15 years. A father of 3 kids and a lifetime expat, originally from Oregon, having now lived overseas (in The Netherlands) for the better part of 30 years. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 13: Kurtis Bowman - Augusta National & La Haciena This week we welcome golf course architect Kurtis Bowman to the Top 100 Clubhouse. Kurtis talks to us about his new design at La Hacienda in Spain; he also details the reasons for his sabbatical from golf and his subsequent return to the industry. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 12: Javier Reviriego - CEO at Real Club Valderrama This week we welcome Javier Reviriego to the Top 100 Clubhouse. Javier is currently the CEO at Real Club Valderrama, one of the world's Top 100 courses. He has a highly impressive CV having previously been head pro at Real Club de Golf Sotogrande, and general manager at both Fuerteventura, and Finca Cortesin, which hosted the Solheim Cup this year. We talk about his career journey, the importance of running a sustainable golf course, and the decision to host LIV golf at Valderrama. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 11: Chandler Withington - Life as a Golf Artist Chandler has worked as the assistant pro at Seminole, the number one assistant at Merion, and was head pro at Hazeltine National during the Ryder Cup 2016. We discuss what it takes to win a Ryder Cup, his good friend Davis Love, and his new career as a licensed artist for the PGA, the USGA and the R&A. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 10: Martin Ebert Martin Ebert is one half of the legendary design duo 'Mackenzie & Ebert'. In this episode, we discuss his involvement in world-class layouts such as Hirono, Royal Liverpool, Royal Portrush and Turnberry. He is open about the challenges and joys of working on such renowned courses, and talks about the controversy surrounding the new 17th hole at Hoylake (Royal Liverpool). Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 9: Bob Ford - Seminole & Oakmont We caught up with the legendary Bob Ford during our week at the Walker Cup. He told us about his experiences as a club pro at Oakmont and Seminole and talked about the importance of merchandising in golf. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 8: Joshua Pettit - Founder of the Alister MacKenzie Institute This week we welcome Joshua Pettit to the Top 100 Clubhouse. Josh is an architect with a focus on the work of Dr. Alister MacKenzie. He's the founder and curator of the MacKenzie Institute and editor of the 'MacKenzie Reader: Writing on Golf Architecture and More'. Join us to discover more about one of golf's legendary architects. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 7: Jim McCann & European Top 100 Special We get to know Jim, hear about the sand course he helped build in Libya and learn about the methods we use to create our Top 100 lists, including a breakdown of the brand-new European Top 100 Rankings. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 6: David Scott - General Manager of Dumbarnie Links Simon Holt chats to David Scott, the General Manager of Dumbarnie Links in Leven, Scotland. They discuss David's golfing journey, the devastating impact caused by the nematode parasite, the value of using a golf tour operator when playing in the UK, the course architecture at Dumbarnie, and the significance of golf course rankings. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 5: Iain Forrester - Dutch Golf & the European Hickory Scene In this episode, Iain Forrester, Head Pro at Hoenshuis Country Club in the Netherlands, talks us through the golf scene in the low country and tells us about the growth of the hickory golf scene around Europe. We discuss the greatest courses in Holland, and whether The Netherlands has a legitimate claim to being the true home of golf. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 4: Zac Blair - Building The Tree Farm In this episode, we welcome Zac Blair to the Top 100 Clubhouse. Zac shares some of his experience on the PGA Tour, highlighting his preference for playing exceptional golf courses rather than engaging in practice rounds. We discuss his venture to establish The Buck Club, and learn about his significant project to build The Tree Farm, a brand new course in South Carolina, developed in collaboration with Kye Goalby and Tom Doak. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 3: Nairn Golf Club - From 1887 to Present This week on Top 100 Clubhouse we talk to the captain of Nairn Golf Club, Ali Asher, and the Nairn archivist, Hugh Sutherland. We sit down in Nairn's fantastic archive room and discuss the history of the club and the room, and also why the R&A really enjoy hosting tournaments there. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 2: Stuart McColm - General Manager of Cabot Highlands This week we welcome Javier Reviriego to the Top 100 Clubhouse. Javier is In Episode 2, our host James Henderson chats to Stuart McColm, the General Manager of Cabot Highlands near Inverness. They discuss how Stuart began his journey in golf, and how he came to be involved in the development of world-class courses like Kingsbarns and Castle Stuart. They also discuss the new course being developed at Cabot Highlands. Listen Here Apple Podcasts Episode 1: Simon Holt Welcome to Top 100 Clubhouse! In Episode 1, our host James Henderson chats to Simon Holt. They discuss how Simon came to be involved with Top 100, the future direction of the business, and the best courses he's had the chance to play! Have a listen and get involved in the Top 100 Community! Listen Here Apple Podcasts
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
