Tee Off in Paradise: Luxury Golf Holidays in New Zealand
- Jane COUTTS
- Sep 18, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: 8 hours ago
Imagine teeing off against a backdrop of awe-inspiring landscapes, where every hole presents a new adventure, and each course offers a unique challenge. Welcome to New Zealand, where golfing dreams come true in a land of stunning vistas and world-class courses. For golfers seeking an unforgettable escape, New Zealand offers everything from legendary courses to hidden gems.
At Amazing New Zealand Itineraries we specialise in crafting customised itineraries that blend your passion for golf with the country’s most breathtaking highlights.
Here is how to experience the very best of New Zealand on a luxury golfing holiday.
New Zealand Courses Ranked Among the Best in the World
New Zealand continues to make its mark on the global golf stage. According to a recent NZ Herald report on Golf.com’s Top 100 Courses in the World, several of the country’s standout layouts have earned prestigious international recognition.
Tara Iti is now placed at number 19 worldwide, celebrated for its natural dunes, coastal strategy and minimalist design. Cape Kidnappers also appears in the top 100 at number 65, with its dramatic clifftop fairways suspended high above Hawke’s Bay. The two courses at Te Arai Links have joined the global rankings as well, with the South Course listed at number 79 and the North Course at number 98.
For visitors planning a golfing getaway, these rankings highlight four bucket-list courses that combine architectural brilliance with outstanding scenery.
1. Cape Kidnappers: A Coastal Masterpiece
Golf: Start your journey at Cape Kidnappers, a course that promises an unparalleled golfing experience. Perched on the cliffs of Hawke’s Bay, Cape Kidnappers is a masterpiece by Tom Doak. The course’s dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking coastal views will challenge even the most seasoned golfer. Picture yourself navigating its signature par-3 15th hole with the vast Pacific Ocean as your backdrop.
Other Highlights:
Hawke’s Bay Wine Region: After your round, take a scenic drive through Hawke’s Bay, renowned for its wineries. Enjoy exclusive tastings at boutique vineyards like Craggy Range and Te Mata Estate, and savour gourmet meals prepared with local produce.
Napier Art Deco Tour: Explore Napier’s Art Deco architecture, a result of the city’s rebuild after the 1931 earthquake. A guided walking tour reveals the city’s rich history and stunning design.
Hawke’s Bay Farmers' Market: Visit the Farmers' Market to experience fresh, local produce and artisanal goods, perfect for a leisurely morning.
Accommodation: Enjoy a luxurious stay at Rosewood Kauri Cliffs, formerly known as Kauri Cliffs Lodge. This exquisite property offers elegant suites with panoramic ocean views. The Rosewood brand brings its renowned standards of luxury, including a world-class spa and gourmet dining, making it a perfect retreat after a day on the course.
2. Kauri Cliffs: A Northland Gem
Golf: Next, head to Kauri Cliffs in the Far North. Ranked among the world’s top courses, Kauri Cliffs is famed for its stunning coastal holes and exceptional design. The course’s natural beauty and strategic layout will leave you with unforgettable memories and a desire to return.
Other Highlights:
Bay of Islands: A day trip to the Bay of Islands offers opportunities for dolphin watching, sailing excursions, and exploring historic towns like Russell and Paihia.
Cape Reinga: Venture to the northern tip of New Zealand to see where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea. The area is rich in Māori cultural significance and offers stunning views.
Whangarei Falls: A short drive from Kauri Cliffs, these scenic waterfalls provide a picturesque setting for a relaxing stroll or picnic.
Accommodation: Rosewood Kauri Cliffs offers an opulent retreat with spacious suites and incredible ocean views. The property’s luxury spa, fine dining options, and beautifully landscaped gardens will add a sophisticated touch to your golfing holiday.
3. The Hills: Exclusive Alpine Luxury
Golf: The Hills has evolved from the modest beginnings of a short par 3 hole to become a world class championship golf course. The 18-hole layout was designed by Darby Partners and opened in 2007 to host the NZ Open.
Set over 500 acres of land across a glacial valley, the layout highlights the dramatic elevation changes and rocky schist outcrops that are a feature of the area.
This championship layout provides a serious challenge for accomplished players while thoughtful and considerate design means that the golf course is equally enjoyable for golfers of all abilities. The Hills is primarily a private members club. Accepting a limited number of visitor bookings daily, excluding Sundays, which are reserved for members only.
Other Highlights:
Milford Sound: Embark on a day trip to Milford Sound, renowned for its stunning fjord landscapes and wildlife. Cruise through the sound to experience its sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Queenstown Adventures: Queenstown, known as the adventure capital, offers activities such as bungee jumping, jet boating, and skydiving. For a more relaxed experience, take a scenic gondola ride to Bob’s Peak.
Central Otago Wine Region: Explore this renowned wine region, famous for its Pinot Noir. Enjoy a tasting tour at top wineries like Mt Difficulty and Felton Road.
Accommodation: The Hills Lodge provides a luxurious retreat with stunning views of the surrounding alpine landscape.
For a more central location, Eichardt's Private Hotel and The Spire Hotel offer high-end amenities and beautiful lake views.
4. Te Arai: New Zealand’s Rising Star
Golf: Te Arai Links is one of the country’s fastest-rising golf destinations. Designed by Tom Doak and Mike Keiser, its coastal and inland holes blend strategy with stunning ocean views. Te Arai was inspired by iconic US resort courses and has quickly gained international attention with both courses now ranked in the global top 100. It is less than a one hour drive from Auckland.
Other Highlights:
Auckland City Tour: Discover Auckland’s vibrant urban culture. Visit the Auckland Art Gallery, take a walk along the waterfront, take a walking food tour or head up the sky tower for great views of the city.
Waiheke Island: Take a ferry to Waiheke Island, known for its stunning beaches and boutique wineries. Enjoy wine tastings at Mudbrick Vineyard and Tantalus Estate.
Accommodation: On-site rooms at Te Arai Links offer direct access to the course and modern comforts. For a more extensive stay, consider luxury lodgings in nearby Auckland.
5. Wairakei Resort Golf Club: A Hidden Gem
Golf: Play a round at Wairakei Resort Golf Club at Lake Taupo known for its unique geothermal features and lush environment. This course offers a distinctive experience with its combination of natural landscapes and innovative design.
Other Highlights:
Rotorua Geothermal Parks: Explore the geothermal wonders of Wai-O-Tapu, where you can witness geysers, bubbling mud pools. Take a soak in the geothermal mineral pools and experience the unique sensation of the therapeutic mud pools.
Māori Cultural Experience: Participate in a traditional Māori cultural evening with a haka performance and a hangi feast, providing deep insights into Māori traditions and cuisine.
Accommodation: Wairakei Resort offers comfortable accommodations with views of the golf course and geothermal landscape, along with a full-service spa and dining options.
6. Millbrook Resort: An Alpine Oasis
Golf: Near Queenstown, Millbrook Resort features three 9-hole courses that cater to all skill levels. The resort combines diverse play with breathtaking alpine scenery.
Other Highlights:
Arrowtown: Discover this historic gold mining town with charming streets, boutique shops, and a rich history.
The Remarkables: Enjoy skiing or snowboarding in winter or hiking and mountain biking in the warmer months.
Accommodation: Millbrook Resort offers luxurious suites and villas with mountain views. Enjoy upscale amenities including a spa, gourmet dining, and a range of recreational activities.
7. Wakatipu Golf Club: A Local Favourite
Golf: For a more relaxed round, visit Wakatipu Golf Club in Queenstown. This local favourite offers scenic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps, providing a charming and laid-back golfing experience.
Other Highlights:
Lake Wakatipu: Explore the lake with a leisurely cruise or enjoy the beautiful lakeside walks.
Queenstown Gardens: Visit these well-maintained gardens for a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the lake and mountains.
Accommodation: The Rees Hotel offers sophisticated rooms with lake views, providing comfort and convenience close to the golf course.
Other Notable Courses Around New Zealand
• Jacks Point, Queenstown
• Kinloch Club, Taupo•
Chisholm Links, Dunedin•
Titirangi Golf Club, Auckland•
Waiheke Island Golf Club•
Ohope Beach Golf Club
• Wanganui Golf Club
Why New Zealand?
New Zealand’s golf courses offer more than a game. They provide fully immersive experiences across rugged coastlines, rolling farmland, alpine valleys and geothermal regions. For international golfers seeking both challenge and natural beauty, New Zealand is an inspiring alternative to traditional golf destinations.
More Than Just Golf
Our bespoke itineraries include far more than just fairways and greens. We’ll tailor each journey to include:
Wine tasting in regions like Hawke’s Bay, Waiheke Island, and Central Otago
Scenic helicopter flights over fjords, mountains, and glaciers
Day trips to Milford Sound, Rotorua’s geothermal parks, or Hobbiton
Spa treatments, cultural experiences, and guided art or food tours for non-golfing companions
Best Time to Visit
The best time for a golf holiday in New Zealand is October to May. Spring and autumn (October–November and March–April) offer mild weather, ideal playing conditions, and fewer crowds.
We’ll Take Care of Everything
At Amazing New Zealand Itineraries, we create fully customised luxury golf holidays. Whether you want a self-drive adventure or a chauffeur-driven escape, we’ll handle all the details — tee times, premium accommodation, private transfers, and more.
Let us design the perfect blend of relaxation, scenery, and unforgettable golf.
Ready to Plan Your Golfing Adventure? Visit Amazing New Zealand Itineraries to start planning your dream golfing vacation today. Your ultimate New Zealand golf experience awaits!
Jane Coutts
Travel Specialist
Amazing New Zealand Itineraries
We know New Zealand - We live here!