Courtesy of Destination Northland www.northlandnz.com/visit
Looking out on a slightly overcast day, I’ve been wondering what Northland attractions I should share with you… then it came to me, golf! New Zealand’s northernmost, and warmest location, is on the map as a premier golfing destination – the perfect excuse for a winter get away.
My extremely patient (9 handicap) husband is trying to teach me and it’s fun. Many of Northland’s courses are set in wonderful locations so when I’ve had enough practice, I just walk the courses, feeling my spirits lift and enjoying the scenery.
Whether you want a couple of days on the green, or a couple of weeks working on your handicap, you can follow the Twin Coast Discovery Highway and experience some fabulous courses – a different one each day! All these18 hole courses offer excellent greens, challenging courses and often fabulous views. And we’ve yet to hear complaints from the non-golfers, just drop the players off in the morning and you’re free to explore our other offerings… Art Trail, Heritage Trail and the Food and Wine Trail… I always find a treasure I can’t live without.
Of special mention is Kauri Cliffs, a resort course considered by many to be the best in New Zealand. The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, Matauri Bay, has 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, Cape Brett, and the Cavalli Islands. Golf magazine and Golf Digest have both ranked the David Harman designed course among the top fifty courses in the world. Since the 1930s only 5 golf courses have achieved this ranking.
Northland’s northernmost course is set on the Karikari Peninsula. Carrington Club is a tournament quality course designed by Matt Dye. Adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, the result is the challenging play of a rolling inland golf course combined with beautiful ocean vistas. Carrington Club has generated interest in the region from golfing enthusiasts and media alike with its Carrington Farms development including an Angus Stud, Northland’s largest winery, wetlands protection area and lodge accommodation.
Kerikeri Golf Course, set in the township of Kerikeri, sits in a sunny micro-climate and is regarded
as a top New Zealand club course.
Nearby Waitangi Golf Course is right next to the historical Treaty Grounds. It has breathtaking views and is a championship standard course offering a challenge – without too much frustration
It’s possible to play golf right alongside Ninety Mile Beach at the Kaitaia Golf Club, one of the top links courses in the country. For those preferring the classic links style course, or a peaceful rural setting amongst native bush, the Whangarei, Northland, Waipu, Mangawhai, Northern Wairoa and Muriwai Golf Club courses offer a scenic and challenging test for all levels of golf, all year round.
Whether you’re after a leisurely swing or have a handicap to better, Northland offers any golfer, amateur or pro, an enjoyable game in some of the most beautiful surroundings you’ll find. The clubs offer typical Northland hospitality, welcoming new faces and looking forward to hosting you for a round or two – during and after the game!
Has anyone played these courses, lately? Please feel free to keep us all ‘posted’.
Courtesy of Destination Northland www.northlandnz.com/visit
park - 15 years ago
It’s a shame that you haven’t included Whangaroa Golf Club, a beautiful course with excellent clubhouse facilities and great views over farmland and bush……. A past Northlander.