Golfer Pacific NZ – April 2025

pgueorgieff@yahoo.co.nz

The fun of a golf trip and the discussions that take place

By Paul Gueorgieff Editor, Golfer Pacific NZ

This column was written on the first day of a golf trip to Coffs Harbour in northern New South Wales.

We were to play in a golf tournament at Coffs Harbour and had flown from Wellington, via Melbourne, to Coffs Harbour.

We flew via Melbourne because it got us to Coffs Harbour earlier by a few hours than if we had gone via Sydney.

Anyway, we were having our usual discussions about golf on our first night in Coffs Harbour and at one point we moved to some history of the game.

The first subject was stymies. Stymies do not exist in golf today but in years gone by if your opponent’s ball was on your line in front of your ball, the opposition did not have to mark the ball like you do today.

It was like a snooker in golf. You had to either chip over the opponent’s ball or go around it.

Various changes to the stymie rules were made between 1920 and 1941 and, eventually, in 1952, stymies were eliminated. We were surprised that stymies had been allowed for that long.

The discussion then changed from stymies to the number of golf clubs allowed in your bag.

The maximum number of clubs allowed in one player’s bag is 14 and that has been a rule since 1938.

But prior to that you were allowed as many clubs as you wished --  or could afford.

Previously players, or their caddies, would carry 20 or more clubs. The primary reason to reduce the number to 14 was that caddies were overloaded with clubs and were simply exhausted at the end of a round.

Another reason to reduce the number to 14 was that it would streamline play and encourage players to make a strategic choice about what clubs to carry rather than rely on a large num-

ber of options.

Some would say that 14 clubs are still too many.

One of our group carries only eight clubs. He used to hit a seven iron soft, medium, hard or very hard. He is a single figure handicapper and hardly ever hits a driver.

I would like to mention the apartments we stayed in at Coffs Harbour. They were very spacious with all the amenities.

The apartments were called Pacific Marina and I would recommend them.

Anyway, it is time to move. Today is the second day of our trip and we have the next six days in a row of playing golf.

Alker boosts his chances of winning a third Charles Schwab Cup

Steve Alker continues to amaze.

The former Hamilton golfer racked up his ninth win on the PGA Tour Champions when winning in what is now his home state of Arizona in the United States last month.

Alker has been a revelation since he joined the PGA Tour Champions which is for golfers aged 50 and older. The now 53-year-old posted his first

win on the tour in November, 2021, and in addition to his eight subsequent wins he has also twice won the season-long Charles Schwab Cup.

He won the first of his Charles Schwab Cups in 2022 and when he repeated the dose last year it carried a prize of $US1 million. That’s about $NZ1.7 million.

Alker’s win in Arizona last month saw him post a brilliant five under par 66 in the last of three rounds which put him into a playoff with Jason Caron of the United States. Caron had also scored 66 in his last round.

It took only one hole of the playoff to find the winner at the La Paloma Country Club in Tucson. Alker holed a 12foot putt for birdie which earned the winner’s purse of $US330,000. That’s about $NZ575,000.

Alker had not won on the PGA Tour Champions since January of the previous year but had been in contention many times.

“Just got to keep knocking on the door,” Alker said after the win.

“You just grind away. I’ve been top 10s, top fives, just been in the hunt,

so it’s just being patient, just working hard on the body this pre-season.”

Alker played the back nine of the final round in five under par with an eagle on the par five 11th and birdies on Nos 15 and 17. Caron birdied the final three holes of regulation.

The win for Alker took him into second placing on the Charles Schwab Cup standings behind Ernie Els.

Alker said he was delighted to be back in the winner’s circle.

“Just to get over that hurdle and get that one,” he said.

“The game’s just been feeling good, just consistent week in and week out. This is what I want, just to give myself chances. Moving forward, I’ve got a Schwab Cup to defend, so I’ve got to get it going.”

While he had been winless on the PGA Tour Champions Tour for 14 months he had not been totally without a win.

Last November he won on the European Seniors’ Tour when taking out the Mexico Open.

Steve Alker in action at the Cologuard Classic at La Paloma Country Club in Tucson, Arizona, last month. (Photo credit: Christian Petersen/Getty Images).

Lydia Ko’s 23rd win on the LPGA Tour

Lydia Ko finally did what she had been trying to do in her past 10 appearances at the Women’s World Championship when she won the championship by four shots on her 11th attempt at the Sentosa Golf Club in Singapore last month.

The New Zealander signed off with a final round of three-under-par 69 over the Tanjong Course to clinch her 23rd LPGA Tour title with a winning total of 13-under par.

Ko, this century, is the second most successful player on the LPGA Tour, the world’s richest golf circuit for women. Her 23 wins place her second behind the outstanding Lorena Ochoa of Mexico who racked up a remarkable 27 wins on the LPGA Tour between 2004 and 2009.

Ko, who led by one after the penultimate round in Singapore, went to sleep dreaming of victory. The LPGA

hall of famer  and last year’s Olympic gold medalist, then returned to the starting tee with a game plan, making five straight pars before extending her lead with three consecutive birdies from the par-four sixth.

“I just wanted to play steady,’’ Ko said after the win.

“I started off really consistently. I hit a lot of greens, and I think that was going to be the big key. I knew that Jeeno (Thitikul) and Charley (Hull) hit it much further than me.

“The distance wasn’t going to be to my advantage, but as long as I played steady golf and just give myself good looks for birdies, I felt like some of them were going to drop.”

Ko, a three-time major championship winner, dropped a shot on 11 but recovered with birdies on 13 and 15. A bogey on 17 did little to threaten her title bid, as she still held a four-shot

cushion. A par on 18 sealed the victory, making her dream a reality.

“I dreamt last night that I won … but then I woke up, and I was, like, it’s not real yet. So, I just wanted to focus on my game as it was a pretty tight leaderboard.

“I felt a lot better coming into this event than a few weeks ago. I didn’t know if I would win. But to win here in Singapore and get all the love, not only this year but for the years that I’ve come, it means a lot.”

Thailand’s Atthaya ‘Jeeno’ Thitikul and Japan’s Ayaka Furue shared second place after posting final rounds of 70 and 68 respectively while England’s Charley Hull, who started the round one shot behind Ko, posted a 74 to finish in a share of fourth place with Mexico’s Gaby Lopez and Korean Im Jin-hee.

Despite falling short of a win in the

Lion City, it was still a memorable week for Thitikul, who secured her 10th consecutive top-10 finish on the LPGA Tour while Furue had her best finish in her last four LPGA starts.

Thitikul, the 22-year-old Thai who triumphed on the Tanjong Course in 2018 in the inaugural Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific, said: “I was frustrated with my play in the first two rounds, so this result exceeded my expectations, to be honest.”

Furue, who also played in that event, was pleased with her efforts after finishing inside the top 10 for the first time this season.

“I’m very happy with this outcome because I hadn’t been playing well this year until this tournament,” said the 24-year-old.

Lydia Ko stands proudly by her trophy after winning the Women’s World Championship, sponsored by Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, in Singapore last month. Photo credit: Getty Images.

Lydia Ko holds her trophy aloft after winning the Women’s World Championship in Singapore last month. Photo credit: Getty Images.

Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific tournament to be held in Wellington next year

Next year’s Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific (WAAP) championship will be held in Wellington. It was announced last month by The R&A and the Asia-Pacific Confederation that the eighth edition of the tournament would be held at the Royal Wellington Golf Club at Heretaunga in Upper Hutt. The dates are February 12-15.

This will be the first time New Zealand has hosted the championship which aims to inspire future generations of women golfers and has evolved into the preeminent women’s amateur championship in the Asia-Pacific region.

Each year, WAAP provides the champion with life-changing opportunities through exemptions into three women’s major championships and elite amateur championships.

The winner will be invited to compete in the Women’s Open in England, the Chevron Championship in the United States and the Evian Championship in France. In addition, they will be invited to the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the Hana Financial Group Championship.

Mark Darbon, chief executive of The R&A, said: “We are delighted to bring the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific championship to New Zealand for the first time. With the region’s best women amateurs competing for major opportunities, Royal Wellington, which has already hosted the (men’s) Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, will be an outstanding golf course to test their skill and truly let their talent shine through.”

Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation chairman Taimur Hassan Amin added: “From the outset, it was the intention to take the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific to different locations around our region. Following successful events in Singapore and Thailand twice each, and once each in Abu Dhabi, Japan and Vietnam, we’re excited to be heading south to New Zealand in 2026 to the spectacular stage that is Royal Wellington. It promises to be a memorable occasion.”

Jeff Latch, chief executive of Golf New Zealand, said:  “Golf New Zealand is incredibly proud to welcome the 2026 Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific championship to Royal Wellington Golf Club. As the pinnacle women’s amateur golf championship in the Asia-Pacific region, it provides a platform for the brightest young talents to compete on the world stage and will further inspire the next generation of golfers here in New Zealand.”

Royal Wellington, first established in 1895 and situated alongside the Hutt River, is well-renowned as a parkland layout and is one of the premier courses in New Zealand.

Royal Wellington has hosted the New Zealand Open on seven occasions including in 1976 when local Steve Williams caddied in his first significant tournament for five-time champion golfer Peter Thomson. More recently, the course hosted the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship won by China’s Yuxin Lin in 2017.

Mike O’Neill, Royal Wellington club captain and women’s captain Jane Paterson, said in a statement:  “The

hosting of this championship is both a privilege and an opportunity - not only for us, but for all of New Zealand.  This is our chance to see the best young women amateur golfers from the Asia-Pacific region playing in our own backyard. We look forward to sharing our club and our region with the competitors, their friends and family, and all who visit the club during the championship.”

The WAAP was developed by The R&A and the APGC to unearth emerging talent and provide a route for Asia’s elite women amateurs to the international stage.

New Zealand Major Events and WellingtonNZ have been instrumental in bringing this pre-eminent championship to the country.

Kylie Hawker-Green, general manager of New Zealand Major Events, commented: “We have an ongoing commitment to supporting women and girls sporting events across multiple codes, and as golf is an increasingly popular sport for women and girls across the country, we see this as an excellent opportunity to bring some of the best amateur players to our shores. In addition, through international broadcast-

ing, it will help showcase New Zealand on the international stage.”

Heidi Morton, WellingtonNZ chief operating officer, said hosting the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific championship strengthens Wellington’s standing as a top destination for international sporting events.

She said: “The Women’s Amateur-Asia Pacific attracts a significant global audience and it’s incredibly exciting that one of Wellington’s premier sporting venues - the Royal Wellington Golf Club - and the Wellington region will be centre stage to an audience of millions.

“This championship will showcase the next generation of talent from across Asia-Pacific, and we’re proud to cement Wellington’s role in celebrating and elevating women’s global sport.”

The R&A and APGC are supported by championship event partners who share their commitment to developing golf in the Asia-Pacific. The Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific championship is proudly supported by Rolex, ISPS Handa, Nippon Kabaya Ohayo Holdings, Samsung, Hana Financial Group, Peter Millar, and Titleist.

Royal Wellington Golf Club which will host next year’s Women’s Amateur Asia Pacific tournament. The Royal Wellington Golf Club at Heretaunga in Upper Hutt alongside the Hutt River.

Ryan Peake comes from out of bounds to win New Zealand Open

The final round of the New Zealand Open resulted in one of the truly great stories of redemption in modern sport.

The backstory of winner Ryan Peake has been documented many times since his one shot victory over a group of three players at Millbrook Resort near Arrowtown in Central Otago and on-course commentator Bruce Young shared his insight about that final day and such a special victory.

Peake had been a promising junior golfer many years earlier, representing Australia in junior teams’ events before turning professional in 2012.

The road in professional golf has never been plain sailing, however, and soon after he made the decision to head to the mines in Western Australia to provide income although turning to the dark side and forming connections to the Rebels bike gang before eventually falling foul of the law.

Jailed for assault, he would spend five years behind bars but under the guidance of West Australian coaching guru Ritchie Smith his passion for the game he loved returned and he returned to professional golf in 2023.

Peake gained his playing privileges for the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia in 2023 and slowly started putting together a series of reasonable finishes before finishing 80th in the 2003-04 order of merit.

It was not enough, however, to retain his playing privileges but he would regain those rights at the qualifying school in April, 2024, where he finished 10th.

In the current 2024-25 season there had been four top 10s before heading to the New Zealand Open in  Queenstown but although getting into the event was guaranteed, getting to New

Zealand was not.

Initially turned away from the airport in Australia on Monday of the tournament week when his previous trouble with the law reared its ugly head, he was advised by immigration authorities that the visa he had been advised was bonafide was not.  So then Peake, tournament officials and connections in New Zealand’s immigration department went into overdrive.

Despite the agonising uncertainty of not knowing his fate for 24 hours, he was eventually legally approved to fly out on Tuesday afternoon resulting in a late arrival into an event which he had not played previously or even seen either of the two courses in use at Millbrook.

Things continued to go right for Peake when he was assigned a caddy from the available caddy ranks who would prove to be a godsend. Matthew Fitzsimons was from Northern Ireland and has spent time in New Zealand caddying at the exclusive and very high-end Tara Iti north of Auckland but, importantly, he was a very good player and the pair seemed to gel very quickly.

Fitzsimons had attended a golf college in Scotland and as the week progressed it was clear Peake was leaning heavily on the input from his new bagman.

In my role as on course commentator, I was advised by the director for Sky’s televised coverage of the event that the final pairing of Guantek Kho and Peake would be my assigned group for the final day  but, while that was not unusual, there was the possibility that should a run come from one of the more recognised players starting ahead of the final group, then I might well be asked to move ahead to

cover that challenge.

Even though our coverage did not start until 2.30pm, I joined Kho and Peake at the first hole when they teed off at 1pm to get a feel for how things would progress over the opening few holes before we went to air.

Peake began the final round four shots behind Kho, but, by the turn, he had reduced the gap to just two courtesy of birdies at holes two, five and nine, with superb iron shots leading to those birdies and although unable to capitalise on the driveable seventh and a shortish birdie opportunity the eighth, a stunning approach to the ninth to four feet behind the hole set the tone for the remainder of the round.

As Kho began to drop away through the middle of the back nine, Peake converted a birdie opportunity from a tricky spot just short of the near driveable par four 12th, but perhaps one of the most important shots came when somehow saving par from a dangerous position just right of the par five 14th green.

His second shot approach downwind from 260 metres finished on the hill to the right of the green, leaving a near impossible shot just to find the green and it was all he could do to make par and keep himself ahead of Kho by two and a chasing pack who were closing in.

Peake parred the 15th and 16th, executing a delicate up and down from just off the back of the green at the 15th and then missing a very makeable putt for birdie at the 16th.

The par five 17th has often proved crucial over the closing stages at Millbrook and, knowing a good drive would ensure the green was very reachable, his tee shot measured over 340 metres and left just 175 metres downhill to a

front flag.

Perhaps pumped up with adrenalin and emotion, his eight iron second found the back right of the green but again he was up to the task with a beautifully measured 45-foot putt down the slope which came to rest just two feet from the hole.

When converted Peake was one ahead of South Australian Jack Thompson who was in the process of putting together a final round 63 and who needed a 12-foot birdie putt at the last to draw level but, when he had missed, the leader strode to the potentially dangerous par three last, knowing a par would seal a life-changing victory.

The hole was playing 155 metres which, given the helping wind, told both Peake and Fitzsimons that a nine iron would do the trick. They spent some time deciding on which line to take as, given the one-shot lead, there was no need to get too aggressive to a back left flag.

Peake would miss the green right but not so far right to find the penalty area and was left with a 45 foot pitch and run across the green. It was made all the more difficult by the gentle undulation between him and the hole and when he finished nine feet short he was left with a nerve-racking but crucial putt to win.

That he made it is now history and the emotion he showed after holing the putt told the story of full redemption for a roller coaster past and potentially an outstanding future.

Not only did Peake pocket the $NZ335,000 for the victory but the win ensured him full status on the Australasian and Asian Tours over the next two years, a start at The Open Championship, and with his standing in the top three of the order of merit now all but assured, he will have DP World Tour playing rights beginning later this year.

Being up close and personal to a large degree on that final day is one I will never forget and the growing support of a crowd who got behind a young man who overcame a chequered background made an emotional and spine-tingling final day even more so. Hopefully, Matthew Fitzsimons will be justly rewarded for the very significant role in keeping his man focused and calm on a day when challenges were coming from everywhere.

Peake handled the pressure like a far more experienced golfer than his relatively young professional career would suggest.

I guess the pressure involved in coming from four shots off the pace and holing a nine foot putt at the last to win pales in comparison to the horror of five years behind bars with no real direction.

Ryan Peake from Western Australia with his trophy after winning the New Zealand Open, sponsored by Sky TV, last month. Photo credit: Andrew Carnaga, Photosport.

Sarah Kennelly the scoring whizz

Golfer Pacific spoke with Sarah Kennelly the scoring coordinator at the New Zealand Open and discovered what that involves. This was her second year in the role.

We asked what her background is.

“I was Dunedin born and raised and I play golf at St Clair Golf Club. I have played for seven years. My work history is with event management and logistics. I did it on cruise ships in the shore excursion department.

“I came home seven years ago from working overseas and started playing golf. I accidentally fell into golf event management. So I have been very lucky to get a few events for golf under my belt as well as doing other events. It has been really fun.

“But now I am actually moving into a role as marketing and account manager for Media Works so I am not sure I will have as much time for golf stuff any more.”

Tell us a bit more about your cruise ships work.

“I worked 11 years for Royal Carribean International working on celebrity ships and some of the largest Carribean ships in Europe managing the shore excursions programme with up to two thousand guests going on tour every day. I did six seasons in Alaska which is my favourite place so I have seen a lot of the world.”

When Kennelly came home she got into golf. She had a hockey background but said she was too old to go back to it.

“I loved it and because I am a natural

Excellent coverage from Kayla Hodge NEWS

By Neville Idour

Otago Daily Times sports editor Hayden Meikle, who usually provides the on-course coverage of the New Zealand Open, decided to send sports reporter Kayla Hodge to do the honours for this year’s event.

What a good move that was.

This was Hodge’s first stint at golf coverage and the results spoke volumes for her abilities. Her daily wall to wall reporting provided insights and stories to satisfy any golf fan.

It was therefore good to sit down with Kayla and talk about her background and genesis as a sports reporter.

“I grew up in Dunedin. I now live in Oamaru but work out of Dunedin,’’ Hodge said.

“I went to Otago University then to Otago Polytechnic where I did my journalism diploma.

“I joined the ODT (Otago Daily Times) in 2018, started at the Gore Ensign and was there for about two and a half years. Then just after (covid) lockdown in 2020 I moved to Oamaru and the Oamaru Mail and did sport at both the Ensign and the Mail. Then I joined the ODT sports department at the end of 2022. I also did some general reporting previously but now I am a full time sports reporter along with Hayden and Adrian Seconi.”

So how does Oamaru living work?

“I met my partner Jacob in Oamaru and we bought a house there. Hayden, my boss, has been very good. I work out of the Oamaru office sometimes then I work out of the Dunedin office the other half of the time.”

What have been her main sports from the get go?

“Netball is probably my big

organiser I ended up organising the Legends Pro-Ams at St Clair the last three years as well as other events for business there.”

Kennelly was office administrator while at St Clair.

So what does the future hold?

“Ideally the future would be great if I could get a full time role organising golf events, but at the moment I am very happy to be going into my account manager role at Media Works.”

Will she still continue her role at the New Zealand Open in future?

“To be continued. To be discussed. We will see. I would have to talk to my new boss to see if I can have the time to do it.”

We finish on that note with the impression that Sarah would be missed if she can’t.

passion. Anything netball related and women’s sports across the board are my other big passion. I covered everything when I was doing community news but now my main rounds are netball, Heartland Otago rugby, football, swimming, athletics, rowing, women’s football, Southern HoiHo and Otago Spirit rugby … and anything else around the traps as well.”

Whew, some list.

“I grew up playing netball by far my favourite. Rugby would be second as I grew up in a rugby mad family, so it would be hard not to enjoy it.”

So what about golf? How did you get to cover the New Zealand Open?

“It is my first ever time doing anything golf related. Hayden wanted someone to cover it so I said yes and here I am enjoying a week at the New Zealand Open. I guess there are worse places to spend a week.”

So how does golf rate now?

“It would be in the middle. I am still definitely learning because I still don’t know all the ins and outs of it. I have enjoyed wandering around the very nice course and it is quite an easy sport to lose several hours in just watching it.”

The obvious question then was, have you played the game?

“No, but my dad is golf mad and I am sure he would love it if I played well. I don’t play any sports now.”

What does the future hold?

“I love my job and I get to cover a lot of women’s sports and women’s sport is on the up. I am passionate about making sure our women sports stars stories from the grass roots up to the elite stars are heard. So I am pretty happy with where I am.’’

And so are the readers of her work.

Sarah Kennelly who has worked as scoring coordindator at the New Zealand Open for the last two years.

Kayla Hodge who, for the first time, covered the New Zealand Open for the Otago Daily Times newspaper.

Mike Hadnett a vital cog for the media

Mike Hadnett is the marketing and media manager for the New Zealand Open and he first became involved with the event in 2016.

He relates: “I flew down for the tournament, walked around the course and did social media off the course with live updates and stuff like that while walking around The Hills and around here (Millbrook). I did it again in 2017 but couldn’t make 2018 due to a knee operation.

“Then from 2020 I became the full time marketing manager for the tournament. We had a break with covid. The tournament were amazing as they organised a secondment role for me at Golf New Zealand.

“So I worked there for close to three years while there was no New Zealand Open. Now I work full time for the tournament.”

So clarify your original role? “Simply flying in for the four days and doing social media content.”

Hadnett’s background is more in information technology — website development, website design, that kind of work.

“I worked for Telecom/Spark for 10 years. I started in call centres, I did call centre training, I built websites. Then what was my dream job at that point came up. I ended up working for FIFA (international federation of association football) on the under 20 Football World Cup for two and a half years leading into that in 2015.

“After the FIFA tournament I moved over and worked for one of the football federations in Auckland for a few years.”

At this point we delve into Hadnett’s pedigree.

“I was born in Holland in Liden. All of my family are from Noordwijk which is just outside Amsterdam towards the ocean. My father is Irish from Dublin and mum is from Holland and we moved to Auckland when I was two-ish and I have lived here ever since.

“Mum and dad are kind of floating around the world doing their thing and me and my brother live in Auckland.”

Next we ask about his sporting background?

“I played football a lot as a kid all the way through and for my school. We were lucky enough to travel and play in places like Australia and Argentina which was really cool. But due to some really bad knee problems I stopped playing football.”

Mike had his third knee operation just before this went to press and it was expected to be the last.

Having given up the round ball code what came next?

“About 10 years ago I started playing golf. I would play with a few mates at Chamberlain Park in Auckland two or three times a year. I bought my first set

of clubs from Cash Converters for $50 because it was cheaper than paying $30 a time for hire clubs.

“I then met Michael Glading through a mutual friend and started playing golf a bit more, then got involved in tournaments a bit more and now I’m … just … addicted … like all of us. (much laughter).

“Now I try to play once a week although it is a bit harder when tournament time comes around because we are pretty much full noise from the start of December.”

Handicap? “Anywhere between 14 and 15 … which is alright. I just had a fitting and I hope the new driver helps bring it down a little bit. Someone told me it’s not about the sticks it’s more about you.”

What courses have you played in Queenstown? “I’ve played Millbrook a few times and last year I played Jack’s Point for the first time on a perfect day. After this tournament I hope to play Arrowtown and at some stage in future would love to play The Hills which I have walked a few times when the tournament was played there. The 100th New Zealand Open there in 2019 was amazing.

“I play golf to have some fun. I love being with my mates and walking in great surroundings which is very therapeutic. Muriwai is my home course so walking you are connected to the beach a lot which is one of my sanctuaries mentally, just to get away from everything.

“So usually in the summer after a round at Muriwai I’ll put the clubs in the car, head down to the beach, grab an ice cream and just walk along the beach and soak my feet in the water for about 20 minutes. Get out of my own headspace, then I’ll head home and tell my wife the round took a bit longer than normal. Final words? “Look, I love the New Zealand Open. Normally I only see about four golf shots and usually it’s the last four, but I love being able to set up and help being part of this amazing team Millbrook Tournaments Limited that deliver this event … and every year we go one step ahead and we try and lift the bar every year.

“This year the whole team has knocked this out of the park, the operations’ team, the hosting team, everyone has achieved every single goal.”

What improvements did you see this year?  “Probably a few things. We go through a really big debrief process as a team so usually within the first two or three weeks after the tournament we have all got to write big debrief documents.

“Then we come together as a team and go through it all. Then we make a big list for the next tournament on what things we can tweak and what we can move on. Especially when we are doing things for the first

time like The Hive and how that is set up.

“There can be some little improvements and tweaking, like the hospitality, you can see it has changed over the last couple of years into the current configuration.

“Because your whole year is based around four days of work it is very hard to make quick changes so it is looking at what you have done, how it worked, how it didn’t work and then what can we move forward.

“For example you would notice our media centre this year was a massive shift from what we had previously.”

So it was with much more space for the many media representatives and excellent provision for the many after play interviews with players.

On that note we thanked Mike for his time and insights into his life and insights into the presentation of what is a wonderful New Zealand Open.

Mike Hadnett who is the media manager at the New Zealand Open.

Michael Glading a happy tournament director NEWS

By Neville Idour

At the outset of our chat with tournament director Michael Glading we suggested that the 2025 New Zealand Open, presented by Sky Sport, was the best yet at Millbrook.

Glading’s response was that of a happy man. “Nice to hear you say that. We have had that feedback from quite a few. I thought the 103rd the year before was the best ever and I think we have just gone a fraction better this year so I am very happy with that outcome.”

We suggested that playing the composite course for the final two rounds was a key factor and asked whose initiative that was.

“I guess I was pushing for that as hard as anybody. There is an organising committee of which Millbrook are a part and they do like to showcase the Coronet nine perhaps a bit more than the lower nine.

“However Brian Howie, Millbrook’s director of operations, who is on our organising committee deserves a lot of credit because he could see the benefit, so I agree with you, the benefit was much

as we expected.

“It created a lot more atmosphere because people didn’t have to walk as far. It allowed the Village Centre which we called The Hive to be literally a swarming hive of activity the entire time, which was exactly what we hoped for. So I think for the public it was a better experience.

“This was borne out by the attendance figures which were up almost fifty percent on 2024. So a lot of credit goes to Millbrook for allowing that to happen.”

The extra facilities around the 18th hole with extra stands behind the tee and green plus extra hospitality areas and viewing platforms all added to the improved experience.

We suggested there was a kind of LIV Golf festive atmosphere with the setup and the music. Glading’s response was positive.

“I think we have learned from LIV. Ben Larson, who is responsible for putting a lot of the structures up, went across to the LIV event a couple of years ago and he came back with those things in mind. We tried them out in 2024 and felt they worked well so we expanded them a bit

in 2025. The feedback we have had from LIV Adelaide is that it is a fantastic spectator experience and we like to think we can tap into some of that. That is certainly one of our goals.”

Looking ahead on the playing side is it possible that you would be able to attract more LIV Golf players?

“Absolutely, I think it is possible. A lot of it is scheduling related. If there is a gap as there was this year I think it does open that door definitely. LIV has made no secret that they would love to have an event in New Zealand, but I think the economics would struggle to deliver on that.”

So in the aftermath of a most successful 2025 NZ Open what are your foremost feelings?

“Obviously the fact we had a fantastic story with the winner (Ryan Peake). Anthony Quayle said to me it is probably the biggest story in golf since Tiger Woods came back and won The Masters. It has resonated all around the world of golf. Ryan Peake’s story of redemption is one people really took to worldwide. It is a wonderful story.”

There is talk about Jacks Point being used for the tournament. “We have never hidden the fact we would like to move to a three course model. The reality is there is a significant extra cost of adding another course. Jacks Point has been fantastic to us and have always said if you need us we are here and are very supportive. So we know if we wanted to move there we could to add a third course.

“But the problem is the economics of the event. It means we are going to add $300,000 to $400,000 in costs and at the moment we don’t have the revenue to cover that. So it’s a chicken and egg situation.

“We believe in the next few years we will end up with a third course but as time goes on there are more courses being built in the Wakatipu Basin. From a logistics point of view it makes a lot of sense

to stay in the area we are in. But really it is going to come down to money. Can we generate more revenue?

“What we don’t want to do is go to three courses and hugely expand our field. We are happy to expand it but not by a significant number because we want to try and control our growth. So there are a fair few variables not the least of which is money.”

We suggest the new course next door to The Hills at Hogan’s Gully which is under construction would be ideal. Glading agreed. “It would totally work and Mike Davis is very supportive of the event and has indicated that they would be happy. But it probably won’t be ready for tournament play until 2029.”

We ask how the three course model would work suggesting Jacks Point would not work for spectators. Glading agreed it would not be an easy spectator experience although locals might go there.

“I think the three course model is built around a much better experience for the amateurs.

We surveyed the professionals last year and the majority wanted it left as a two course event because it is one less practice round to play and one less course they have to map out.

“However for the amateurs it gives a great experience because it gives them guaranteed three rounds with their professional before a cut is made after the third round. But we are a little way from that consideration at the moment.”

We thank Glading for his frank thoughts and leave knowing the New Zealand Open could not be in better hands. The open is one of very few unique golf tournaments on the world calendar and in its current form is a superb sporting experience for players and spectators alike. Long may it last. As Australia’s LIV golfer Lucas Herbert said: “I can’t think of any reason why you wouldn’t want to come and play this tournament.”

104th New Zealand Open delivered in spades

By Neville Idour

Ihave been to every New Zealand Open since it was first held at The Hills in 2007 when England’s Richard Finch won.

The move to The Hills in Arrowtown, of course, was a master stroke as it provided one of the best spectator experiences  you will find anywhere in the world. Every event there was memorable.

Any doubts that the complete move to Millbrook Resort would match The Hills have been swept away as, in its own way, the 2025 event at Millbrook has truly found its own unique niche in so many ways.

In fact it is now very difficult to imagine the New Zealand Open ever leaving the Queenstown area. The 18th hole atmosphere is truly electric and intimate. Just one huge happy festive buzz.

The only New Zealander

to win since 2003 is Michael Hendry in 2017 and he was one of the local hopes this year. In fact with recent winners in Josh Geary, Nick Voke and in form Daniel Hillier, Kazuma Kobori, Ben Campbell and Hendry in the field, plus Danny Lee and Steve Alker, there were high hopes that we might finally see another New Zealand winner.

It was not to be. After useful five under par first rounds from Geary and Hendry that had them eighth equal, four shots from the lead. But from there it was all downhill for the large Kiwi contingent.

Hillier was the best of the Kiwis finishing strongly to tie for 12th on 17 under par. Sam Jones finished tied 15th on 16 under with a stunning third round 61 the standout. Alker, Kobori and Lee were all disappointed to just miss the cut.

So it was all about the rags to

riches story movies are made of. Australian Ryan Peake was sitting on 11 under after two rounds, six shots from the lead. He was still four shots behind Guntaek Ko beginning the final round but was able snatch a fairytale victory with excellent putting on the final hole.

What made this 2025 edition the best at Millbrook yet? There were so many reasons.

The infrastructure and additional aspects and innovations all played a part. The coup de gras though was the composite course employed for the final two rounds.

Unlike previously when the full Coronet course was used, this time the mix of the Remarkables and the lower level Coronet holes proved to be a winner, especially with spectators who found it an easy walk to follow the players.

The increase in attendance

over last year of almost 50 percent proved the wisdom of the composite course. There were large numbers following many groups especially the Kiwis who had huge support.

There were many noteworthy aspects and happenings. Players from eight different countries were represented in the top 12 finishers and nine Kiwis made the cut. At number 104 the New Zealand Open is one of the all time longest running major sporting events of all time.

Peake’s 23 under par was the second lowest score in New Zealand Open history. More than 320 kids took part in the Hyundai Futures Festival while there were a mammoth 523 SBS Bank volunteers involved, from 143 golf clubs. Thanks to Craigs Investment Partners, $31,000 was raised from birdies and closest to the pin shots for two charities.

Highlighting how special this tournament and the Southern Lakes district is, was Australian Lucas Herbert choosing a walk up Queenstown Hill before the tournament to propose to his girlfriend.

“I think I surprised her but she seems happy.” Just as well Lucas.

Queenstown has long been one of his favourite places hence his many visits to play in the New Zealand Open.

Finally for the players, in a unique gesture for worldwide golf, the $2 million prize pool allowed every professional to receive at least $1000, which was much appreciated.

The 105th open will be played between 26 February and 1 March 2026. Expect another cracker. I can’t wait.

Tyler Hodge resurrects his career as a professional golfer NEWS

New Zealand left-hander Tyler Hodge held his nerve over the closing stages to clinch a one stroke victory in the New Zealand PGA Championship at Hastings.

Leading by four strokes after a birdie at the par five 10th hole in the final round of the tournament sponsored by Wallace Development, Hodge’s advantage from the Queensland pair of Tim Hart (67) and Shae WoolsCobb (71) was reduced to three with a bogey at the par four 11th.

Hart, Wools-Cobb and Kerry Mountcastle (66) all nudged one stroke closer with birdies of their own, Hodge’s lead shrinking to just one when he made a third bogey in the space of eight holes after three putting the par three 16th.

The two closing holes at Hastings Golf Club were playing directly into a hefty wind and Hodge came up short with his second into the par four 17th.

He very nearly chipped in before tapping in for par to head to the 72nd tee with a one shot advantage as Hart and Mountcastle sat safely in the clubhouse at 15 under par for the tournament.

A bombed drive into the fairway was the first piece of the puzzle Hodge needed to complete before the 30-year-old hit his best shot of the day, a seven iron from 161 metres to just 12 feet from the pin.

It was after watching playing partner Denzel Ieremia’s shot carry deep into the green that Hodge changed clubs, dropping back to a seven iron to all but seal his first Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia victory with a

final round of three under 69.

He is the third Kiwi winner in the past four events (Josh Geary, Nick Voke) and the third left-hander to win this season (Elvis Smylie, Ryan Peake) and does so in his second stint as a professional. His win was worth $A31,500.

Originally joining the pro ranks in 2015, Hodge quit in late 2019 and had a year away from the game before returning to amateur golf and caddying for two seasons at Tara Iti golf course in Northland.

In 2023 he decided to try again and now, two years later, he is a tour winner with guaranteed status through until the end of the 2026-27 season.

“That’s a very cool thought,” said Hodge, who had fiancée Tessa McDonald on the bag as he completed a career highlight.

“We’ll have some in-house conversations and stuff like that about what the future looks like playing golf.

“I had a couple of years off a few years ago and then kind of came back to the game and have been enjoying it.

“But she’s a tough old slog pro golf, so my fiancée and I have been having some chats about possibly giving the pro playing stuff away.

“We’ll have to have a bit more of a chat over the winter about that.”

Tied for second overnight, Hodge continued to forge ahead as the likes of Cameron Harlock (77), Jake McLeod (74), Denzel Ieremia (71) and Wools-Cobb (71) stalled on Sunday.

Challengers emerged from back in the pack in the

form of Mountcastle and Hart, but both would ultimately fall one short of forcing a playoff.

It was Hodge’s performances on the Charles Tour in New Zealand last year that earned him limited playing rights on the PGA Tour of Australasia this season, a tie for 11th at the New South Wales Open enhancing his status and providing confirmation that a win was not beyond reach.

“I definitely haven’t played to my potential for most of the season,” said Hodge, who went to 22nd on the order of merit with the win.

“That was a little bit of a highlight that week but still felt like I didn’t kind of have it.

“Just to kind of let it go this week and just whatever happens, happens, the game kind of came back to me a little bit naturally, I suppose.

“I’m almost a journeyman now. Golf is different. There’s a lot of learnings that you have to go through yourself.

“People can tell you about it and stuff like that, but you have to experience a few of those things and get through a lot of adversity.

“Slowly but surely I got back into it and then obviously enjoyed it enough to have another crack at the pro stuff.”

Mountcastle and Hart shared second at 15-under par, one clear of Wools-Cobb, Anthony Quayle (69) and another Kiwi left-hander, Tim Wilkinson (67).

Tyler Hodge in action at the New Zealand PGA Championship in Hastings last month.

Tyler Hodge with his trophies after winning the New Zealand PGA Championship at Hastings last month. Photo credit: BW Media.

Eunseo Choi best of New Zealanders at 13th in Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific

Jeneath Wong of Malaysia who won the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific championship in Vietnam last month Wong is a classmate of New Zealand golfer Eunseo Choi who finished 13th in the same tournament. Wong and Choi both play for the Californian university Pepperdine. (Photo credit: Getty Images & The R&A).

Eunseo Choi had her best result at the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific (WAAP) in her fourth appearance at the prestigious amateur event, finishing in a share of 13th at Hoiana Shores Golf Club in Vietnam last month.

The 18-year-old New Zealand golfer who plays for the Pepperdine University in California had scores of 67, 71, 67, and 67 around the par 71 layout to finish 10 shots behind her college teammate and the tournament’s winner Jeneath Wong of Malaysia.

Choi was the top Kiwi finisher ahead of Vivian Lu (27th) and Juwon Kim (49th). Fellow New Zealanders  Emma Zheng, Darae Chung and Chloe So missed the 36-hole cut.

The event was the seventh edition of the Women’s Amateur Asia Pacific and featured 17 golfers inside the top 100 in world amateur rankings, including two inside the top 10.

Wong’s victory earned her starts in three major championships – the Women’s Open in England, the Evian Championship in France and The Chevron Championship in the United States, as well as other elite events such as HANA Financial Group Championship, ISPS HANDA Women’s Australian Open, The 122nd Women’s Amateur Championship and the Augusta National Women’s Amateur.

Choi is already thinking about next year’s championship which will be held at the Royal Wellington Golf Club at Heretaunga in Upper Hutt.

Her final round was perplexing, making 18 pars. Despite going bogey-free, she finished the tournament feeling equally happy and frustrated with her performance.

“I am pretty happy with all the pars,’’ Choi told Golf New Zealand.

“The fact that I could have made a couple bogeys along the way, but I still hung on and got the par, I’m pretty happy with that. I missed a couple birdie putts which made me a bit upset, but that’s okay – it’s just the mental game.

“I can’t wait for Royal Wellington, I love that course.”

Meanwhile, Lu ended her week on a positive note,

shooting a four under 67 to finish one under par in equal 27th. The 20-year-old University of Washington student improved progressively throughout the week, carding 73, 72, 71 in the first three rounds.

Lu, who was playing in her fifth WAAP, is satisfied with her performance.

“I’m happy with how I finished. I got better every day,’’ Lu said.

“But not the result I was looking for this week. There is always something you learn about yourself and your game. It was a good experience overall.

“I played Royal Wellington a few times growing up and I go down there a little bit. Yeah, it’s beautiful there. Of course I plan to play. It’s at home, so I should be there.”

Kim made the cut in her maiden appearance at the tournament, finishing 11 over par with  rounds of 70, 74, 76, and 75. It was an impressive achievement for the young Pupuke Golf Club member, who celebrated her 15th birthday in round three.

The eighth edition of the championship will be played from February 12-15. It will be the first time New Zealand has hosted the WAAP and some of the world’s best amateur golfing talent will be on display for Kiwi fans to see in the capital.

Royal Wellington hosted the men’s equivalent of the same tournament in 2017.

The championship was developed by The R&A and the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation, and serves as a platform for Asia-Pacific’s elite female amateur golfers as a pathway to the global stage.

Introducing Vietnam Golf Week 2026

10 – 16 May

Golfers are invited to Vietnam Golf Week in May 2026. Play on some of Danang’s top golf courses, designed by the likes of Sir Nick Faldo, Robert Trent Jones, Luke Donald, and Greg Norman. Stay at the 5-star Pullman Danang Beach Resort, with everything taken care of. Golf Week is all about heading to a great destination, enjoying different golf courses, and celebrating all that’s good about golf with a small group of like-minded people. We have a day tour to Hoi An to explore the ancient port village with Portuguese heritage and a fun Stableford golf competition with daily prizes. Limited to just 32 spots, Vietnam Golf Week is truly intimate and promises a fun-filled week at one of our favourite golfing destinations in the world. Plus, if you bring friends from your club, we have some inter-club prizes to give away. Enjoy a pre-tour to Nha Trang and post tour to Hanoi if you want to discover Vietnam in depth.

Book Now: www.voyages.golf/asia/vietnam/tournament/vietnam-golf-week-2026

There are still some places left in Fiji this September. Join Fiji Golf Week & enjoy incredible value for this 7-day, 4-round tournament & take a break – you deserve it. www.voyages.golf/australia-pacific/golf-week/fiji-golf-week-2025

There aren’t many better places for summer holidays than The Coromandel. Golfer Pacific writer Peter Thornton discovered that the region is also a mecca of quality golf courses.

Summer road trip with the golf clubs

You know that feeling when you can’t get a song out of your head.

The words of George Ezra’s ‘Shotgun’ have been the soundtrack to my summer.  ‘There’s a mountain top that I’m dreaming of, if you need me, you know where I’ll be.’  The mountain top I’m dreaming of is Mt Pāuanui.

It’s first thing in the morning, with a blue sky day, and I am standing atop of the mountain looking down at that incredible view of Pāuanui Beach. It’s a magic moment that I share with my three kids and wife.

Pāuanui Beach is a special place for our family. We came here for our summer holidays for more than 20 years, we owned a bach here for around 10 years, and it has always been our happy place.

It’s been six years since I have been back, and it is a fitting location. This weekend, we are celebrating our 12th wedding anniversary, and it was here, on the southern end of the beach, where I proposed to my girlfriend and now wife. Twelve years and three kids later, we are back.

A FANTASTIC TEST OF GOLF

First up for the golf is the Lakes Resort, around a 10-minute drive from Pāuanui Beach.

I have a good history with this place.

When I was working for Phillip Leishman’s television golf show back in the day, the Lakes Resort was the ‘home club’ of the show. We spent many hours filming here creating profiles and tips with the then director of golf Richard Ellis.

It opened in 2004 – around six years after Gulf Harbour Country Club and Formosa in Auckland – and was regarded as one of the top 10 courses in the country.  It’s not at that standard now, but Lakes is still a fantastic test of golf and a great experience.

My old man is in the Coromandel during our stay and he and my uncle Tony (TJ), along with a good mate Geoff Rickerby, come together on a clear and warm summer’s morning.

We chuck the balls in the air, and Geoff and I team up to take on the old fellas in a matchplay contest for the beers. Geoff makes two birdies in the opening three holes, and we are looking good.

But things changed abruptly. TJ –who hasn’t played a lot of golf in recent times – is the star turn. We gave him five shots at the start of the round, but he didn’t need them.

He made a fine downhill putt for par on the fifth and backed it up with a brilliant birdie on the sixth. There was

more to come from the old boys.

Dad delivered a clutch birdie putt on the par five eighth and then made par on the ninth. This wasn’t going to script. We count them up at the turn and dad and TJ had won five holes in a row.

The front nine is where you need to do your scoring here, as the back nine plays tough.

One of the best holes on the course is the par three 10th – particularly if you are playing off the black tees where it is around 190m and all carry over the largest lake on the property.

There is no doubt that holes 12-15 are the hardest stretch of the course.

The 12th has a blind tee shot over trouble, the 13th is a tight dog-leg par four and the 14th is the best hole on the course. It is a long par four with trouble on both sides of the fairway. There is nowhere to miss. The par five 15th has to be one of the toughest par fives in New Zealand.

By now, we are fighting to stay alive. I make par on the 13th and have a sixfoot putt for bogey on the 14th to continue the match. It lips out and we go down 5 and 4.

It is never nice shaking hands on the 14th green, but we have to take our medicine. Things could have been different as Geoff and I win the final four

holes with the match already gone.

Sitting in the grandiose clubrooms, sipping on an ice-cold pint of Asahi, the old boys are rapt. They played nicely and gave us an old-fashioned hiding. There is one person you don’t want to lose to at golf at that is my old man because you will hear about it forever.

A SPECTACULAR SETTING

For all the years of coming to Pāuanui, Grand Mercure Puka Park was a bastion of luxury and quality on the hill. So, to be unpacking my bag to stay here is a pinch-yourself sort of moment.  It doesn’t disappoint. The kids are shrieking with joy when we arrive at our accommodation, and they are still talking about walking down to the restaurant for breakfast.

With the chalets nestled into the native bush and the soundtrack of birds and cicadas, and the waves in the distance, it is a spectacular setting. Our kids lived in the swimming pool and spa and ran amok on the tennis court.

We get settled in and have an unforgettable dinner to mark our wedding anniversary. Our fish of the day is snapper, fresh off the boat. It is perfectly cooked, and the flakes fall off your fork. The kids’ highlight is their chocolate sundae. The food and ser-

Lakes Resort Pauanui -- the course is nestled in a unique valley setting and meanders its way through picturesque natural native wetlands and lakes.

The sun going down at The Dunes in Matarangi.

One of the most intimidating shots on the Lakes Resort course. The 10th from the black tees is around 190m and all carry. (Photo credit: The Lakes).

The beautiful setting of the par three fourth hole at Tairua is a signature hole on the course.

vice throughout are from the top drawer. It’s the sort of meal where you wish it could go all night, but we retire back to our rooms for a quiet glass of Pinot Noir and some rest.

If you haven’t stayed at Grand Mercure Puka Park, then you must experience it for yourself.

“I HAVE NEVER SEEN WATER THAT COLOUR BEFORE”

On the second morning, we head north to Whitianga to take a tour on the Mercury Bay Discoveries boat. As we walk down the jetty there is not a breath of wind, and the sun is sparkling on the harbour.

The affable host Adam Collier welcomes us on board with a plethora of quality dad jokes – like “you’ll find your lifejackets under your seats; we got these from the Titanic”.

Adam is a superb guide, and he offers great insight to the region. First stop is into Cathedral Cove. The walking track has been closed for the past two years following damage to the track from Cyclone Gabrielle. Sitting on the back of the boat soaking in the sun, it’s an amazing spot.

We whip out into the open ocean and arrive at the Orua Sea Cave. We are fortunate as the wind is light today and we have 10 minutes in the iridescent cave. It is a transcendent and mesmerising blue. I have never seen water that colour before.

On the way home, we jump off the back of the boat into Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve for a snorkel. With blue maomao and snapper just below you, it was an incredible feeling to be paddling in this water.

We spend the afternoon on Hahei Beach – which is one of the most beautiful beaches in all of New Zealand – and head home.

A WALK DOWN MEMORY LANE

It’s day three and I am back where golf started for me. In the heart of Pāuanui are two quality pitch n’ putt courses – The Lakes and The Pines. This is where my dad introduced me to the game of golf when I was six years old.

I know every inch of these courses and I can’t wait to take a walk down memory lane.

My best score across these two courses (which both have a par of 29) is 65 so naturally the goal is trying to beat that number.

I start at The Lakes. There is nothing like playing a course first thing in the morning with no one else around. The Lakes has many good holes. It is longer than the Pines with three par threes (six, seven and nine) that are the best part of 200m.

The best hole on the course is the third, and rates as the hardest. It is 136m from the tee into a green that is flanked by wa-

ter all down the righthand side.

The fifth is the first chance to pull out the driver. The par four is narrow from the tee but at 280m it is a gettable hole. I find the green in two and my birdie putt comes up just short.

Another signature hole is the eighth. The hole, named Postage Stamp, is only 105m but it is a good challenge with water surrounding the green.  I walk down the road and finish my round at The Pines, the first course to be designed in Pauanui.

Standing on the first tee is a nostalgic moment. The hole runs parallel with the airfield, and I can’t tell you the number of times I sliced my ball over that fence when I was growing up.

Walking down the first hole, I pause for a moment. I realise just how much I love this place. This town, this beach, this golf course. The sites, the smells, the memories, it just feels like home.

I strike the ball well at The Pines, but my course record is not in danger today.

There have been several good changes made to The Pines in recent years.

The par four fourth hole used to have a large pine tree which blocked the green and it has been removed. It is only 210m and drive-able from the tee. The seventh – which measures 187m — has been rightfully changed from a par four

to three. And a longer tee box has been built at the eighth which adds 20 metres and makes it a decent challenge.

The Pines must be one of the better pitch `n’ putt experiences going around.

My three-year-old boy Toby joins me as I finish my round. It’s a full circle moment as he plays on a golf course for a first time.

Toby makes a couple of nice putts and chases after his ball. Hopefully he’ll fall in love with the game like I did on these humble links all those years ago and never look back.

Sadly. It’s time to pack up and head for home.

Our experience in Pāuanui has been first class. It is my favourite place in the world and on this adventure to The Coromandel we made memories for a lifetime.

THREE OF THE BEST

The Coromandel has quality golf courses all over the Peninsula.

The Dunes, Matarangi – Originally a nine-hole course, it was expanded to a full 18-hole layout in 2006. Those changes are almost 20 years old now and are well bedded-in. From the opening signature hole, where the green backs onto the beach, you know you are in for something special. The Dunes doesn’t disappoint, with stunning views and a quality layout.   Tairua Country Club – Tairua is a game of two halves. The opening nine is open and fairly forgiving while the back nine is tighter and testing. It’s a course that all levels of golfer will enjoy and there are several memorable holes. The par three fourth is a lovely 110m drop hole that is surrounded by trouble. But two of the driveable par fours – the ninth and the 13th – are the ones you will be talking about over a cold beer in the clubhouse.

Whangamata Golf Club (Titoki) – This course has humbled many good players. One of the characteristics of Whangamata is the elevated tees which offer great views of the layout. There is a plethora of special holes here.  Two of my favourites are the par four 7th which doglegs right. Big hitters can take on the treeline for a chance to hit the green. On the back nine, the par four 16th is another brilliant hole. You hit from an elevated tee and big hitters will look to carry the creek. Whangamata is an enjoyable round from start to finish.   A special thanks to Megan Nunn, the Marketing Manager at Destination Hauraki Coromandel for coordinating our trip to the Coromandel.

The stunning view looking down to Hahei Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula. An aerial view of The Whangamata Golf Club which is one of the best club courses on The Coromandel.

It is always a good feeling when you hit the dance floor at the 8th – the hole known as the Postage Stamp at Pauanui Lakes.

Peter Thornton’s three-year-old son Toby on a golf course for the first time at Pauanui Pines.

More than 650 rounds of his age or better

On a wet Saturday afternoon in May of 1957, at the practice fairway below the eighth green at Ngamotu Links in New Plymouth, a young lad wearing a rain coat was handed a golf club and told to swing it.

And so began a golf journey.

The boy’s tutor was dour Scottish professional Bob Dornan who taught his student how to hold the club while supportive club members educated the youngster on the etiquette of the game.

A few months later, in the Taranaki Boys’ Championship, the boy broke 100 for the first time and won the best net prize from a 36 handicap. He won a small travelling clock which to this day he still retains.

Today, nearly 70 years later at the age of 83, the same lad is still playing golf and achieving great results.

For example he recently posted a score equal to or under his age for a remarkable 650th time. Yes, you read correctly, a 650th time.

The golfer is Peter Rankin and he is a very accomplished golfer.

He won the Bledisloe Cup as the top amateur at the 1964 New Zealand Open, won the 1965 New Zealand Foursomes Championship (with the great Stuart Jones) and won three Wellington Strokeplay Championships.

Rankin has also represented Wellington at the interprovincial level in what used to be called the Freyberg Rosebowl, has won the senior club championships at three Wellington clubs of Miramar, Manor Park and Royal Wellington and played Wellington interclub golf for more than 50 years.

Rankin, whose handicap index at the end of last month was 3.9, first equalled his age at the age of 69 at Royal

Wellington.  A month or so later, at the same course, he scored 68 when he finished with eagle and birdie.

His tally of more than 650 has not been by playing week in and week out at the same course. He said the feat had been achieved at more than 50 different courses and had been from the level of social games through to the rigours of tournament golf. He regularly has rounds of six-eight shots under his age.

Rankin, who plays at Manor Park Golf Club, has not just been a golfer. He also been active in the game’s administration.

He was a coordinator of Wellington junior golf in the 1960s, was project manager for the 1994 re-build of the 18 Sir Bob Charles-designed greens at Wellington Golf Club and, along with his wife, designed and

built a golf driving range at Tawhero in Whanganui and managed a public golf course associated with it.

Rankin recommends that older golfers play from the shorter tees.

“The young golfers of today can hit the ball prodigious distances and the back tees are right for them,’’ he said.

“While us 70-plus golfers might like to think we are up to the challenge of the longer playing length courses, the enjoyment factor rapidly declines.

“Senior golfers are not well catered for. Two great examples are the New Zealand Masters and the New Zealand Mid-Amateur.

“There is no recognition that senior golfers cannot compete against 50-year-old `younger’ players in terms of how far they hit the ball.

“For example, at the New Zealand Masters, there is a 70-plus division but these players are expected to play off the back competition tees. So where is the enjoyment in that for 70-plus-year-olds? — struggling to reach many of the par fours in two.”

Rankin is keen that more golf courses have a range of tees to suit their abilities.

“Not before time the concept of ‘women’s tees’ is slowly disappearing but the perverseness of some greens’ staff, greens’ chairmen and committees has not,’’ Rankin said.

“These are the people who should be at the forefront of the movement to make golf an enjoyable experience by setting up the course to be playing-friendly.

“Far too often we see the opposite — stretching the playing length in conditions when the opposite should be happening.”

Wellington golfer Peter Rankin who has racked up more than 650 rounds with scores either equal to or under his age.

Blenheim golfer racks up a ton of under age scores NEWS

By Neville Idour

We have become accustomed over the years to Sir Bob Charles’ remarkable ability to better his age

in his scores on the golf course.

Of course, now that he is 89 years old, the task has become easier such is his ability. However another remarkable story has emerged of a golfer who has

shot an 18 hole score that has equalled or bettered his age for the 100th time.

Clive Drummond, 87, a member of the Blenheim Golf Club since 1982, recently achieved

that feat. Shooting your age is something many older golfers throughout the world take pride in, but to do it more than 100 times is rare. Drummond, now a life member, currently has a 16 handicap and was on a six handicap in the early 1990s.

Drummond first equalled his age when 71 years old in 2009. He first played golf when he joined the club. The club has acknowledged his feat in a newsletter outlining what it takes to continue shooting your age in golf. Of course the better player you are the better your chances when you hit the 80s and 90s. Drummond said he doesn’t focus on beating his age when he plays.

“I just go out and try my best each time and whatever happens, happens,” Drummond said. He enjoys the exercise and fellowship most of all, but one milestone has eluded him, a hole in one.

“To get a hole in one would be nice, especially as my wife

Ngaire has achieved it twice. So there is a little bit of rivalry between us. I guess there is hope each time I play.”

He has to play to his handicap now to shoot his age and most recently shot an impressive 86 to register his 103rd on the par 70 course.

Drummond played cricket before he played golf. That probably isn’t surprising as the two sports seem to complement each other, probably because of the hand-eye coordination required in striking the ball in both sports. Many top cricketers are more than useful golfers as we see each year amongst the amateurs at the New Zealand Open such as Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming, Mark Richardson and many others.

As for Drummond his love of the game of golf, ability and relaxed attitude will stand him in good stead as he defies age and builds towards a double century. Now wouldn’t that be something?

Blenheim golfer Clive Drummond who has had more than 100 scores under his age.

By Neville Idour

Ithought it would be an interesting exercise to come up with a list of the many no no’s players can sometimes fall into like traps.

It is all about enjoying your round without unnecessary distractions and making sure we allow our fellow players to likewise enjoy their rounds without distractions.

So here goes. Why not start on the tee?

Standing too close or in the peripheral vision of a player. Some don’t like someone standing directly behind them. Of course these also apply on the green when someone is putting.

Golf’s many no no’s No place for sexism in golf

By Neville Idour

Hands up men if you have played off the yellow or red tees recently. Mmmmm.

I wonder how many men do or would admit they do?

Well for a start I admit I do and have done in recent times.

At 83 years old I do not have the length off the tee of my younger days so it makes good sense and makes the game more enjoyable. I still play from the white tees on occasions such as in tournaments or golf tours without huge problems.

However, I refuse to play in events that limit men to the blue tees such as at my home club Pegasus in North Canterbury

This also includes watching your shadow isn’t a distraction.

Overlong pre-shot routines and excessive practice swings. Some professionals are shocking examples and shouldn’t be copied.

Not shouting “fore” for offline shots. This is an absolute unforgiveable must. Kill someone with your rocket and life will never be the same.

Not hitting a provisional when it is called for. Much valuable time can be wasted if not.

Playing or walking too slowly.

Not watching our own shot all the way.

Not watching your partners shots.

Talking or whispering while someone is playing their shot.

Hitting up too soon on the group in front. “I didn’t think I could hit it that far”. We have heard that one before.

Marking scorecard when it is your turn to hit.

Not helping others search for their golf balls.

Not letting faster players play through when convenient.

Not repairing pitch marks or divots. Just inconsiderate laziness.

Not raking bunkers. Same again.

Phone overuse. Sound should be off and try not to talk business or whatever during the round.

Leave your bag, trolley or cart at the exit point of the green, not on the fairway approaching the green.

Walking on another player’s line on the green.

Marking every putt, even the one footers. Putt out or finish off. Maybe we need a rule that says you can only mark the ball once on the green unless your second putt is on someone’s line and in their way.

Not picking up in a stableford competition when you can’t score.

Don’t be an angry bunny and affect others’ enjoyment.

Finally, when you have all finished putting get off the green promptly.

where their monthly event for members demands this. There are two fairways I cannot reach from the blue tees so I cannot see the point of playing.

Obviously this precludes some shorter hitters from playing. So these club member events are not inclusive. I guess the handicap system was designed to cover this type of club event.

Isn’t this whole ladies’ and mens’ tees thing a male ego sexist thing?

Progressive clubs no longer sexualise their tees. They have names for the tees or the red and yellows are simply forward tees.

At Tieke Golf Estate near Cambridge they have a wonderful tee setup with several tees which all

have names. Men and women have championship, tournament, middle and forward tees each with a name. The men’s are Tōtara, Kanuka, Cedar and Redwood.

If many men like myself left their egos in the car park and played off a tee commensurate with their handicap and ability, all in their group would have more fun and the pace of play would improve noticeably.

The problem for many men is the stigma of playing off the so called ladies tees. It is anathema for some men. For your information anathema means something that is strongly disliked or disapproved of.

So it is easy to see the wisdom of clubs like Tieke doing away

with the traditional colours.

Sir Bob Charles has long advocated for golfers to do away with their egos and play from a tee that allows them to play their second shot to reach the green on a par four and third on a par five. It certainly makes the game more enjoyable and the handicap system allows for the more generous length of each hole.

Playing a shorter course doesn’t mean your game is tested less as it allows you to experience all the different subtleties and design aspects of the course you may not experience from the longer tees.

Of course in winter when the course will play longer it makes good sense to play from forward tees.

Perhaps in the interests of speeding the game up and getting more golfers on course, clubs might designate a period of the day, especially in winter when men can only play from the white tees or the equivalent as a maximum.

No one likes being stuck behind a group of blokes of dubious ability who play from back tees and spray the ball all over the place. The fun of your round will disappear quickly.

It really comes down to swallowing the ego and when the course is busy play from the tee that suits your handicap whatever colour that may be. It just might make your round more enjoyable and open the gate to a new approach to golf.

Time for open-minded dress codes NEWS

By Neville Idour

Is it time to abandon the rather ancient concept of dress codes and replace them with something more relaxed and modern?

I am not suggesting anything goes, such as jandals (which I have seen worn by some on course) or faded, dirty jeans or scruffy shorts.

While traditions are nice, some do not make the game welcoming for newbies, especially the young. If you really want to hang on to ancient standards or traditions go play in the various Hickory tournaments available and wear pleated trousers and tartan tops.

Unfortunately, depending on how you view it, times and standards change, not always for the best, I will admit.

But for golf let us welcome the different styles now available. Young ones are always aware of what is being worn by their golfing stars, especially the cool

dressers. Remember the Rickie Fowler caps which were worn by many a few years ago?

The latest is Jason Day wearing the new Malbon gear for which he is an ambassador. This will quickly catch on but he says he will have to get clearance from Augusta on the planned clothing he wants to wear at The Masters 2025.

Last year he was asked to remove his “busy” sweater during the second round. So it will be interesting to see how this plays out.

Let’s be frank. No one is going to turn up on the first tee for a tournament or, mercy be, a casual round in high heels or speedos.

It is somewhat patronising to tell people exactly what they must wear. I have to admit I am a little traditional with my various golf polos, shorts and trousers. However I have relaxed a little and will wear trousers or shorts with extra pockets. On a cold or freezing day what is wrong

with a tidy jacket with a hood? I prefer a beanie or cap with ear covers because they don’t impede the sight lines when hitting. If a player turned up at a club wearing a style they had seen a top player wearing in a professional tournament and were told they couldn’t play in it, something would be seriously wrong.

The perceived dress codes for women could be impeding some from trying the game which is a shame. The ‘rules’ are actually far more relaxed than they realise. Women, in fact, are allowed far more flexibility in what they wear than men at most golf courses. It is all about getting more players, not just women to try the game. What better way than with someone they know well who can show them the ropes.

Fear of breaking some rule can easily put some people off. The goal should be to feel comfortable and have fun. I well remember my first Saturday club day at my first member club. After we finished

I went into the packed clubhouse for an after match drink et cetera. I had only entered the lounge when this booming voice yelled at me to “get that b…. cap off.”

It was the then notorious club captain exercising his authority. Silly me didn’t know the rule never to wear your cap in the clubhouse. Fortunately he didn’t put me off golf.

So the bottom line should be not having to fit into a specific mould, but finding enjoyment your way and assisting others to do likewise. Young players especially will be more attracted to golf if it is less regimented and if there is more opportunity to be expressive and individual. If we have to have a rule for dress maybe it should be simple like “tidy, appropriate, well arranged dress is expected”.  Then we should be able to trust golfers to make sensible choices of clothing and enjoy their day on the fairways.

By Neville Idour

HEssential clubs to have in your bag

aving the right clubs in our golf bag can make all the difference to our game and the enjoyment thereof.

But what clubs are really essential? Opinions on this can differ especially where we may have difficulty mastering a particular club. However, broadly speaking, certain clubs really should be a must.

A recent opinion piece I came across recently, sparked my interest.

I well remember my early days playing golf when I simply didn’t have a clue. After finding it almost impossible to hit a good tee shot with a driver or a good fairway shot with a fairway wood I gave up and filled my bag with irons. The three iron was my tee shot.

While I could enjoy the game to a degree using irons only, it was only on a golf tour to the Sunshine Coast in Australia with a professional that my limitations were exposed.

Thanks to the professional imploring me to adopt a driver and fairway woods and get some instruction I was able to overcome my fears and have a golf bag that included essential clubs for a rounded game.

Obviously top of the list is a driver. Some players find a driver hard to control so do not use one. However the answer may be a more lofted driver.

A nine degree loft is much harder to control than a 13 degree loft. I like my 13 degree driver as I can also use it successfully off the fairway which gives me extra distance.

A mixture of fairway woods and hy-

brids are ideal for those fairway shots. A three or five wood plus more lofted three or five hybrids which are easier to hit than long irons. Super lofted nine woods are another excellent option.

If you are right handed and end up in a spot that requires a left handed shot what do you do. You could carry a left handed club or you could include one of the two way ambidextrous chippers that are available. Chippers are also wonderful from the first cut off the green because they reduce the shot to a putting action and take away the fear of sculling your wedge miles. Wedges are wonderful so carrying a pitching wedge, sand wedge and lob wedge will cover all tricky situations. Thick rough or bunkers being the main culprits.

Finally the choice of putter is vital. It may well be the last thing some women spend money on, but don’t be misled. Find a putter that you feel has been made just for you. It is possible and it will give a confidence that can’t be taught.

It may sound silly but I still have my Nike mallet style putter that is 20-plus years old. I have tried using the latest big money name brands. I have had a couple which I used briefly and sold.

So I am still stuck with my Nike which has great alignment markings and fits like a glove when I pick it up. Long may it last.

No doubt having the right clubs in your bag that feel like they were made for you will enhance success and enjoyment.

News in brief

By Neville Idour

WOODLAND RECEIVES PGA TOUR COURAGE AWARD

Did anyone know they had one? Well they do and it couldn’t have gone to anyone more deserving than the most likeable 40 year old Gary Woodland. The emotional Woodland said “It means everything to me but really belongs to the people around me.”

Woodland had surgery in September 2023 to remove a benign brain lesion. The award recognised his courage and perseverance in overcoming the extraordinary adversity to continue making a meaningful contribution to the game.

“It’s been hard to share my journey to help people but I am blessed with amazing family and my team and the support from the golf world.” The award which included a US$25,000 PGA Tour contribution to a charity of Woodland’s choice went to Champion Charities which researches and supports patients with brain tumours, brain disease and brain trauma. Woodland and wife Gabby matched that $25,000 donation.

CHARLEY HULL’S BIG MONEY BET

Never one to take a step back England’s Charley Hull has revealed a big money bet with fellow professional Ryan Evans. In a video on her Instagram she hands over a pack of cigarettes to Evans saying “Today I’ve decided to stop smoking and I’m betting 10 grand that if I pick up a cigarette in the next two months, I’ll give you 10 grand.

Hull says she normally would smoke about five-a-round and took up smoking to help stop her vaping habit. Amazing and here in New Zealand our politicians encouraged vaping to help people stop smoking. Crazy!

Hull went on to admit “I only smoke. I hardly drink, because I can have a fun time without it.”

MCGINLEY SAYS PGA TOUR MODEL NOT SUSTAINABLE

Paul McGinley, now a Golf Channel analyst, says, with the huge influx of money into the game since LIV Golf emerged, it is not practical for PGA Tour pros to continue to be independent contractors. He feels LIV has got it right with all players playing all events on their not over long calendar, thus allowing them plenty of opportunity to play on other tours except the PGA Tour where they are banned.

Of course McGinley is only partially right as the PGA Tour expects all its qualified players to front for the big money designated signature events with just one exemption allowed. He also feels the top PGA Tour stars such as Scheffler, Schaufele and Morikawa should play outside the USA more.

He would love to see them travel a bit more.

MONAHAN ANNOUNCED

PACE OF PLAY MOVES-OH REALLY?

It is hard to know whether to laugh or cry when PGA Tour CEO Jay Monahan makes a ‘big’ announcement. Speaking at The Players Championship he announced ‘major’ changes to tackle the pace of play issue dogging professional golf. Here goes and you can probably laugh and cry.

He spoke of three ‘big’ changes.

Penalty strokes for slow play on the Korn Ferry Tour. Wow. What about the PGA and other tours under its umbrella?

Monahan said he was excited to announce this one. Publishing individual speed of play statistics on the PGA Tour. Wow that is some penalty. That will become the new go to for fans. Yeh right.

Testing rangefinders at six Tour events between The Masters and PGA Championships. “We’re excited to learn more about the impact of increased transparency and accountability through these efforts.” Wow. Classic gobbledegook.

Unfortunately Jay there are many who probably know more than you about such things. Some ‘experts’ contend that the use of rangefinders will actually add to the slow play problem. Who really knows? Surely if the time limits for playing a shot were strictly enforced along with meaningful penalties there would be no problem. The LPGA Tour have the answers as reported in the March Golfer Pacific and are implementing them. The PGA Tour simply needs to follow their lead exactly. But will they? Ha. Not likely.

MONAHAN ON THE PIF/PGA TOUR MERGER

“We’re doing everything we can to bring the two sides together, but we will not do so in a way that diminishes the strength of our platform or the very real momentum we have with our fans and our partners.” Thanks for that insight Jay. Unfortunately to outsiders the void seems to be as wide as ever and hopefully your platform doesn’t collapse.

CALLAWAY JOINS JON

RAHM’S LEGION XIII TEAM

Callaway Golf has concluded an equipment deal with Jon Rahm and his Legion XIII team. Callaway is the first major manufacturer to sign a deal with a LIV Golf team. LIV Golf teams have been busy making clothing and sponsorship deals to consolidate their value but this one is the first from a major club manufacturer.

Rahm has been with Callaway since 2021, winning the 2021 US Open and 2023 Masters with Callaway clubs. Fellow team members Caleb Surratt and

Tom McKibbin are Callaway staff players too.

WOMEN’S WORLD TOUR NOT NEEDED

Practically every golfing area worldwide has a women’s professional tour. However there has been a move by the two fathers of LPGA Tour players Albane Valenzuela and Alexa Pano calling for various women’s circuits to merge, particularly the LPGA and LET tours.

Former LET Chairman Christine Langford is not impressed. She said the LET had good reason not to jump at the chance to join with the LPGA Tour when it was mooted a year or so ago. The LET has been doing very nicely on its own thank you. They now have six big money Saudi sponsored events including the US$4.5 million PIF Saudi Ladies International, plus four US$2 million Aramco Series events.

We all know what has happened to the DP World Tour after its ill advised ‘strategic alliance’ with the PGA Tour. Every year their top 10 players can disappear to the PGA Tour making it weaker by degrees. That is the last thing the LET Tour needs.

LYDIA KO THIRD ON ALL TIME LPGA TOUR MONEY LIST

Lydia Ko is third on the all time LPGA Tour money list with over US$20.5 million from 247 events. Annika Sorenstam still tops the list from 307 events with over US$22.5 million. Karrie Web played 494 times to earn $20.3 million. These figures pale compared to the men. Woods more than $120 million, McIlroy over $95 million, Mickelson almost $95 million, Scheffler and Dustin Johnson $74 million. Plus five other players over $60 million. Remember many of them are still in their prime. Enough said.

TEMPER TANTRUMS ON THE INCREASE

There has been an increase of temper tantrums on the PGA Tour this year. At the Valspar Championship fits of pique were plentiful. Adam Hadwin smashing his club into a sprinkler head sparked a spectacular and persistent water display that wet anyone in the vicinity. It was hilarious watching a nonplussed Hadwin crouched by it not knowing what to do completely soaked. He would be penalised and have to foot the repair bill.

Patton Kizzire joined the fun, drop kicking his putter across the green after missing a putt. Rory McIlroy was not impressed saying they should set an example as we don’t want 10 year old kids punting their putters across the green every time they miss a putt. Even the usually mild mannered Sahith Theegala had a moment to forget throwing his club after a poor tee shot. To his credit Kizzire did apologise saying he wasn’t feeling well and ‘lost my cool’. “It’s unacceptable.” He withdrew

shortly after his meltdown. LONG PUTTERS

ON THE INCREASE NOT A GOOD LOOK

It would seem that the use of long putters is on the increase and it is a trend some pundits don’t like. Adam Scott, Si Woo Kim and Bernhard Langer have been using them for some years now. Others to join the fray are Keegan Bradley, Ernie Els, Lucas Glover, Akshay Bahtia, Branden Grace, Byeong-hun An, Will Zalatoris, Danny Lee and Eduardo Molinari to name a few. Long putters are not universally popular especially with traditional thinkers. If there is a limit to how long a driver shaft can measure why is there no limit to the length of every club in the bag. It seems incongruous that the club that hits the ball the shortest distance is allowed to be the longest club. Why not limit the length of the putter and grip. At times it is difficult with some players to detect real separation from anchoring. It is not a good look. Surely it would be a better look for golf if it was played in the way it was originally.

LPGA TOUR A POOR RELATION TO THE PGA TOUR

The treatment of the LPGA Tour’s 2024 CME Group Tour Championship TV coverage was appalling. Despite many of the year’s golf highlights being related to the women with Nelly Korda’s amazing win sequence and Hannah Green’s three wins plus Lydia Ko’s exploits they still came off second best. For the Saturday third round, Premier League soccer and women’s basketball bumped the inconsequential PGA Tour’s RSM Classic on to the Golf Channel and hey presto, left the women without live coverage. The big and iniquitous concern is that the LPGA Tour has its hands tied by a media rights deal brokered by the PGA Tour, so it may not have much say in the fiasco. Understandably the CME Group CEO Terry Duffy was not impressed. He said the Saturday broadcast was “bullshit.” Hard to disagree.

HOW MUCH TO PLAY IN AUSTRALIA?

What would we expect to pay to play some of the many marquee courses in Australia? The Australian tops the bill with Aus$600. Peninsula Kingswoods two courses are $495 each. Royal Melbourne East and West, Kingston Heath and New South Wales are $450. Metropolitan is $400. However surprisingly some of the very best are much less and are almost bargain basement. Fourth ranked Barnbougle Dunes and sister course Lost Farm are just $144. Number one ranked Cape Wickham is $225. The Dunes is $95. Brookwater is $140 while the two Moonah Links course are $110. In the USA TPC Sawgrass is US$900 and Pebble Beach is $675. Shadow Creek will fleece you of $1250.

GOLD COAST AND SUNSHINE COAST GOLF TOURS

Tourism bodies state Kiwis preferred 4-5 of Australian destinations are in Queensland, including Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. Book today with our specialist and trusted golf travel companies.

GOLD COAST

SUNSHINE COAST

Escape the New Zealand winter and bask in the warm sunshine of Queensland with Golf Encounters, your premier choice for golfing holidays. For 26 years, we’ve been delighting Kiwis with unforgettable golf getaways to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Our tours fill up fast, so secure your spot early!

Choose from our selection of 8, 14,

or 28-night packages, tailored to suit your preferences. Stay in comfortable, self-catering accommodations in Coolangatta, Mooloolaba or Noosa, with options of 1 or 2 bedroom apartments. Dine at nearby restaurants or enjoy the convenience of preparing meals in your apartment.

Experience the thrill of playing at renowned golf courses across Queensland.

We ensure a relaxed pace, never scheduling more than two rounds on consecutive days. Embrace the holiday vibes while indulging in your favourite sport amidst the picturesque backdrop of Queensland’s winter paradise. Discover the ultimate golfing adventure with Golf Encounters. Visit www.golfencounters. co.nz for more information and to book your dream golfing holiday today!

GOLF ENCOUNTERS – GOLD COAST AND SUNSHINE COAST HOLIDAYS

RACV Royal Pines Gold Coast

Noosa Golf Club

Relax on the Gold Coast’s iconic beach strip

Relax at Mooloolaba Beach Sunshine Coast

Peter and Marian Cox - Golf Encounters

GOLD COAST GOLFING

LAKELANDS GOLF CLUB

» Travel Info: From Broadbeach 10 minutes

» From Surfers Paradise 15 minutes

» Website www.lakelandsgolfclub.com.au

SITUATED in the heart of the Gold Coast, Lakelands Golf Club is Jack Nicklaus’ first signature course designed in Australia. Lakelands Golf Club combines the traditions of Golf and Hospitality by providing its members, guests and visitors with the environment, facilities and services that satisfy their Golf, social and business needs and interests. Opened on 17th February 1997, Lakelands Golf Club had gained a reputation for “The Best Serving the Best” providing standards and facilities second to none on the Gold Coast. Multiple tee positions make the course user friendly and yet challenging, whatever the standard of golf you play. Nicklaus has used bunkering extensively in his strategic design and water features on many of the course’s 18 holes. With tee times available to the public every day at Lakelands Golf Club, it is a must to play this golf course which has all of the tell tale signs you would expect of Jack Nicklaus designed Golf Course which is situated in the heart of the Gold Coast, less than 10 minutes from Broadbeach and 15 minutes from Surfers Paradise. Lakelands also has full locker room facilities, Golf Shop, Signature Restaurant and Bar, a full length driving range, PGA certified coaches available each day, along with all the other facilities you would expect a facility of this reputation to have. Whether you are here for a trip away with good friends, or on a holiday, Lakelands Golf Club is a course you must visit for a game on our beautifully presented course, making sure to enjoy a drink on the deck while overlooking those behind finishing out on the 18th green, or

commencing their back nine on the challenging 10th tee with water all up the left hand side of the fairway.

Neat dress code is required at all times with strictly no denim or cargo pants permitted, collared shirt and enclosed footwear is a must while on course.

For more information please contact us on: proshop@lakelandsgolfclub.com. au or call 011 61 7 5510 6507

LINKS HOPE ISLAND GOLF COURSE

» Holes: 18 Par: 72 Metres: 6,457

» Designer: Peter Thomson

» Ranking: 6th best Public Access Course in Australia 2005 (#6 in 2004)

» Course Facilities: Practice Range, Putting Green, Club hire Locker Room, On Course refreshments, Golf Academy

» Travel Info: From Brisbane 50mins

» From Broadbeach 35mins

» From Surfers Paradise 30mins

» Website: www.hir.com.au

LINKS HOPE ISLAND is a gem of an 18 hole traditional “links” style championship course, designed by five times British Open champion Peter Thomson and reminiscent of the great courses of Britain and Ireland. Challenging, yet very approachable, the two nines unfold with beauty and intrigue ensuring those that appreciate golf presented at its best leave with an unforgettable experience and a strong desire to return again and again. Forget about trying to play Links Hope Island like all the standard format resort courses, this one deserves special skill and attention. Bump and run golf is a great challenge for those not accustomed to it, and we guarantee you will come away with renewed admiration for how the poms play their golf. A fantastic opportunity to sample good old fashioned British links golf without the 20 hour plane ride! Don’t miss it.

Links Hope Island, the Gold Coast’s

It’s time to escape the cold weather and take a trip abroad to Australia’s sunshine state! With plenty of courses on offer, a Gold Coast golfing holiday might just be your perfect paradise.

No.1 Golf Course*, is perfectly located, central to both Brisbane and the Gold Coast. We invite you to experience our championship golf course and first class clubhouse facilities.

Contact Links Hope Island for bookings or further information on: Golf I Membership Options I Events I Weddings I Links Restaurant Phone 07 5530 9000 or email events@linkshopeisland.com.au

With its 5-Star clubhouse and practice facilities and consistent rankings as one of Australia’s top ten resort courses, Links Hope Island is the ultimate destination for corporate and social golf, functions, glamorous events or weddings. There are also a variety of membership options available from full membership, to corporate or 5 day options. Contact us today to find out more.

PALMER GOLD COAST GOLF COURSE (FORMERLY ROBINA WOODS)

» Holes: 18 Par: 71 Metres: 6,078

» Designer: Graham Marsh & Ross Watson

» Course Facilities: Practice Range, Club Hire, Locker

» Room, Bar, Restaurant, On Course Refreshments, Golf Academy

» Travel Info: From Brisbane 60mins

» From Broadbeach 10mins

» From Surfers Paradise 15mins

» Website: www.palmergoldcoast.com.au

CARVED out of 65 hectares of native woodlands, with fairways lined by towering gum trees, this unique layout is unlike any other resort course on the Gold Coast. Palmer Gold Coast (formerly Robina Woods) possesses maturity well beyond its years, and has developed a reputation as one of Queensland’s best-loved resort courses. The rolling fairways, manicured greens, and towering eucalyptus trees are strikingly beautiful and blend harmoniously with the surrounding

residential development. A natural water-course featuring lakes, ponds, creeks and native wildlife completes a rare golf course environment.

The front nine holes are particularly striking as the trees envelope you as you move around, and the final two holes are a great way to finish the round.

Consistently ranked in the top resort courses in the country, the service before and after you play is superb, and we feel certain you will enjoy your day.

PALMER COLONIAL GOLF COURSE

» Holes: 18 Par: 72 Metres: 6,424

» Designer: Mitsuaki Kobyashi

» Course Facilities: Practice Range, Putting Green, Club hire, Locker Room, On Course Refreshments, Restaurant

» Travel Info: From Brisbane 60mins

» From Broadbeach 10mins

» From Surfers Paradise 15mins

» Website: www.palmercolonial.com.au

A FARMLAND once home to cows, weeds and bush has been transformed into a beautifully groomed course with lush fairways and meticulously manicured greens. The championship resort layout meanders its way through 39 hectares of towering eucalyptus, picturesque lakes and serene waterways.

Flowering native and exotic trees and plants abound, while ornate bridges cross watercourses in which luxuriant lilies jostle for space The distinguishing feature of the course is the clubhouse, with its Colonial Queenslander design. You feel like you have drifted back in time as you sit down to that first thirst quenching drink on the wide, breeze-catching Queenslander verandahs which surround the building and offer panoramic views over the golf course and Gold Coast hinterland. Palmer Colonial is well worth the visit, and great value for money.

FEATURE

SANCTUARY COVE –THE PALMS

» Holes: 18 Par: 70 Metres: 5,904

» Designer: Ross Watson

» Travel Info: From Brisbane 55mins

» From Broadbeach 35mins

» From Surfers Paradise 30mins

» Website: www.sanctuarycovegolfclub.

» com.au

THE Palms Golf Course at Sanctuary Cove is another masterpiece from renowned Golf Course architect Ross Watson. With gently undulating fairways dissecting critically placed bunkers, it offers a wonderful challenge for all golfers.

With a par of 70, it has a mixture of long and shorter holes, with some par 3 holes that are sure to attract critical acclaim. Visually it has that links style appeal, and the more golfers play it they will appreciate its strategic qualities. A great golfing experience!

PALM MEADOWS GOLF COURSE

» Par: 72 Metres: 6319

» Travel Info: From Broadbeach 5 minutes

» From Surfers Paradise 10 muntes

» 18 Holes Par 72 measures 6319 metres

» Designer Greg Norman

» Website: www.palmmeadows.com.au/ PALM MEADOWS Golf Course at Carrara on the Gold Coast is centrally located within 10 minutes drive of Surfers Paradise and five minutes from Broadbeach. Palm Meadows welcomes golfers of all standards. There are no reserved tee times and patrons may utilise all facilities including the clubhouse, function rooms and Lakeview Restaurant.

The all weather golf course has 11 kilometres of golf cart paths around the

Palm Meadows has a fleet of 72 Club Car Electric Golf Carts with wet weather covers.

The challenging 350 hectare course was designed by leading Australian golfer Graham Marsh. Par 72 measures 6319 metres off the championship tees. Water comes into play on 14 holes and there are 82 sand bunkers.

The first hole is recognised as one of the world’s most challenging opening holes. Water runs the length of the hole on the left and the world famous Bamboo Curtain forms a barrier to the right.

Palm Meadows’ signature hole is the world famous 18th; it measures 523 metres from the championship tees. Players accept the challenge and decide how much of the right dogleg they want to cut off. American Golf Digest rated Palm Meadows 18th in the world’s top 500 golf holes.

Palm Meadows Golf Course is a public course with limited memberships. All golfers may enjoy the facilities of the course, clubhouse and Lakeview Restaurant.

THE GLADES GOLF COURSE

» par 72, 7264 metre

» Website: www.glades.com.au

THE GLADES GOLF CLUB boasts the reputation as one of Australia’s most prestigious resort golf courses and is located right here on the Gold Coast. Designed by champion Australian golfing icon, Greg Norman, the course is typical of his trademark aggressive layouts offering golfers a challenging round of golf within visually stunning surrounds.

PARADISE GOLF TOURS

PARADISE GOLF TOURS is the longest-established specialist Golf Tour company on the Gold Coast (since 1989), which means that you are dealing with a very reputable and experienced company.

Over the years, Paradise Golf Tours has built excellent relationships with the Gold Coast’s premier resort courses and this means they can usually secure your preferred tee-time on all courses, on any day.

Because of their buying power, they have access to significant discounts at a huge choice of accommodation venues as well as all golf courses – discounts which are passed on to their clients ensuring that Paradise Golf Tours provides excellent value with lower prices than can be obtained by going direct.

Let Paradise Golf Tours organise your next group trip to the Gold Coast and

you too could be playing on exclusive and private renowned courses such as Hope Island, Sanctuary Cove Pines, Sanctuary Cove Palms, the Jack Nicklaus-designed Lakelands, the Greg Norman-designed Glades or Brookwater, the home of the Australian PGA – Royal Pines, and many others too.

With a modern fleet of buses to provide transfers throughout your stay and a myriad of choices for accommodation, it’s no wonder they say:

“We’ll cross all the tee’s for you!” Begin your trip planning right now by going to www.paradisegolftours.com.au and click on the Request a Custom Tour Quote button, or email them at: info@paradisegolftours.com.au or just call on 0402 049 868 right now – it’s really that easy to organise a golf trip for any number of golfers from 2 to 100 or more.

Now servicing Sunshine Coast.

fairways.

SUNSHINE & GOLFING

The naturally refreshing SUNSHINE COAST, where you will experience a laid-back lifestyle centred around pristine beaches, freshwater rivers and lakes, subtropical forests and warm sunshine. From the naturally stylish Noosa, to the family fun of Coolum, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba and Caloundra, to the cool and creative hinterland villages of Maleny, Montville and Mapleton. Any destination you choose for your Sunshine Coast holiday will fill your body, mind and soul with an enduring sense of warmth. And the Golf is great too! So take your clubs and escape the Winter Blues.

NOOSA’S ONLY NATURE RESERVE WITH A CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE ATTACHED

The Noosa region, with its beautiful beaches, lush green hinterland, stunning coastal national park, pristine river, cosmopolitan lifestyle and lively calendar of events is one of the most popular beachside holiday locations in Australia.

Located on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Noosa is surrounded by ocean, lakes, river, national parks and a lush hinterland. But it’s more than just another beachside holiday spot. What makes Noosa special is its laidback atmosphere and year-round warm and sunny climate, combined with award-winning restaurants and cafes, a great choice of accommodation and a diverse range of activities and adventures for everyone. There is also a busy calendar of events that celebrate the best in surfing, food, sports, music, theatre, creativity and more. Noosa offers a diverse and wonderful experience for everyone who visits.

The region is renowned for its award-winning restaurants and cafes, with an abundance of fresh, local and delectable produce prepared by dedicated and experienced chefs. From casual, alfresco dining and first-class restaurants to pubs and cafes, and produce markets, a culinary experience is guaranteed on any visit.

If you love nature and the outdoors, Noosa is a perfect destination with unspoilt beaches, stunning national parks, excellent fishing and trails that traverse the hinterland and are suitable for walking, horse-riding and mountain biking. Indulge in diving, surfing, stand-up pad-

dle boarding, golf, fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, kite-surfing and more. For those wanting a more relaxed and chilled-out experience Noosa is also home to many superb day spas and health retreats.

Nestled in this paradise you’ll find picturesque Noosa Golf Club. Enjoy the beauty of this 18-hole championship course in a natural parkland setting with an abundance of local wildlife at your side. Families of kangaroos laze in the sun and koalas can be spotted snoozing in the trees. Unlike players, the koalas actually like being in the trees! The course is said to be very forgiving with 6000+ metres of easy walking and wide fairways. Still, it’s no pushover and can be a challenge to golfers of all levels.

After playing 18, the perfect place for relaxing with friends is at the clubhouse. The 19th hole offers a fine bistro and relaxing deck to take in the superb view over the ninth and 18th holes.

Noosa Golf Club celebrates the camaraderie of golf with the best value green fees, membership and hire charges on the Sunshine Coast. Golfing great or just a beginner, we warmly welcome you to our club.

Noosa is just 1½ hours from Brisbane’s international and domestic airports, or just 30 minutes from Sunshine Coast Airport which has daily flights from Australian capital cities and direct flights from New Zealand. For further information visit www.noosagolf.com.au and for accommodation www.visitnoosa.com.au

PELICAN WATERS GOLF CLUB

Located just one hour north of Brisbane in the stunning surrounds of Golden Beach, it was the first Greg Norman-designed course on the Sunshine Coast. Open to the public and designed to rank among the premier courses (ranked No.1 on the Sunshine Coast and No.16 in the top 100 public access courses in Australia, according to Golf Australia Magazine), this spectacular 18-hole, 6359m championship course fittingly boasts one of the finest clubhouses and practice facilities in Australia. Pelican Waters features an impressive driving range, practice putting and chipping greens, and a well equipped shop. Find out more at: » www.pelicangolf.com.au

HEADLAND GOLF CLUB

Located in the heart of Queensland’s magnificent Sunshine Coast, Headland Golf Club is the region’s premier golf club and home to an outstanding 18-hole championship course. Beautifully positioned on the hills of Buderim, overlooking the spectacular Sunshine Coast coast-

line, and within easy reach of Brisbane, Headland provides exceptional golf and hospitality experiences to members and visitors alike. With its rolling and treelined fairways and pure greens, the historic par-72 championship course offers a layout to challenge the best of players, while providing a fair and invigorating test for golfers of all abilities. It is this combination of challenge and enjoyment that makes Headland a top-rated golf course and must-do for visiting golfers. The traditional clubhouse experience is equally as memorable, with popular restaurant Vista@Headland offering excellent food and stunning views in a relaxed dining experience. Open for lunch 7 days a week, and Friday night’s for a special a-la-carte menu, you can enjoy a great day out at Headland Golf Club. The idyllic location also provides the perfect setting for a wedding or function. For more information or to make a booking please call +617 5444 5800 or email golf@headlandgolfclub.com.au. » www.headlandgolfclub.com.au

TWIN WATERS GOLF CLUB

The course is internationally recognised as one of the top six resort courses in Australia and members naturally consider it the best on the Sunshine Coast. The 18-hole, par 72 championship course was designed by five-times British Open champion Peter Thomson and partner Mike Wolveridge.

The stunning setting and challenging layout combine to produce an enjoyable game of golf for all players. Visit their website for full details: » www.twinwatersgolfclub.com.au

FEATURE

PERIGIAN GOLF COURSE AND DRIVING RANGE

Peregian Golf Course and Driving Range: a premier pay-to-play golf venue on the Sunshine Coast.

Located just 7 minutes north of Coolum and 12 minutes south of Noosa, the Peregian Golf Course is a highly ranked park-land style golf course open to the public 7 days a week. We have relaxed dress regulations to ensure that all golfers and visitors are made to feel welcome

at the course and driving range. Families and juniors are encouraged to enjoy the wonderful facilities including the Par Bar where you can relax and watch the sports channels provided.

Whether you’re a keen golfer, casual golfer or not even a golfer at all, have a browse through our website and see what your piece of Peregian will be. » www.peregiangolf.com.au

PACIFIC HARBOUR GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

Conveniently located in the Moreton Bay region between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, is the home of Pacific Harbour Golf and Country Club at Bribie Island. Surrounded by pristine national parks, and inhabited by plenty of local wildlife, this course is one that you’ll want to add to your bucket list!

Operating since 2006 and open to the public, we offer social play 7 days a week and visitors are welcome to play in our competitions. The course boasts lush green fairways, responsive fast paced greens, challenging par-3s, lengthy par4s and some rewarding par-5s for golfers of all levels. With an aquatic driving range, chipping area, practice green and spectacular views of natural surrounds, this course is a must-see destination. You will not regret coming out and testing your golfing skills on this beautiful hidden treasure!

Not only does the club boast a stunning course, the beautiful clubhouse was designed so that it appears to be floating, offering a scenic view over the course from The Deck Bistro, with lunch available 7 days a week from 11am and dinner Friday and Saturday evenings. » www.pacificharbourgolf.com.au

ABOVE PAR GOLF TOURS

ABOVE PAR GOLF TOURS, one of the region’s leading tour operators, is owned by a fellow Kiwi, Mike Cox. The Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast are undoubtedly the favourite winter golf destinations for Kiwis, and having spent 20 years in the depths of Southland, Mike can fully understand why.

“Our aim is to simplify your holiday by taking over all of the accommodation, golf and transport bookings on your behalf, and at the same time using our bulk buying power to provide the package cheaper than you can do it yourself – a classic win-win situation,’’ he said.

“Packages are tailormade for your individual requirements with a large selection of accommodation and courses available to suit any budget.’’

The company offers outstanding value packages for small and large groups, and provides a comprehensive website with slideshows of all golf courses.

The website also has a unique online quote system which means you can go on-line 24 hours a day, seven days a week and construct your own dream holiday from a wide range of accommodation, resort courses, hire cars or daily transfers.

Once the selections are made, a no-obligation quote is immediately emailed, saving hours of time and money contacting Australia.

Mike’s sales staff then work on a oneto-one basis with you to ensure a truly memorable holiday for all.

For full information visit: » www.abovepargolf.com.au or call Mike on 0061 7 5522 9055

2025 NBS Nelson Festival of Golf Course Review

NELSON GOLF CLUB

NELSON GOLF CLUB’S 18 hole championship links course is adjacent to the district’s airport and the picturesque waters of Tasman Bay. This beautiful seaside links course has reputedly the ‘best’ greens in the country. Nelson golf links is only ten minutes from the centre of downtown Nelson and virtually next door to beautiful Tahunanui Beach and associated accommodation.

Nelson enjoys one of the most favourable climates in New Zealand with high sunshine hours which helps to explain why Nelson is a popular golfing destination. Come and play this challenging links course year round. www.nelsongolf.co.nz

GREENACRES GOLF CLUB

Welcome to Greenacres Golf Club, where playing golf is a “fun” experience to be enjoyed.

This beautifully-maintained 18-hole layout, rated one of the top 40 courses in New Zealand, is conveniently located on the outskirts of Richmond, just a short drive from Nelson Airport.

Set on an island, the club offers magnificent scenery

and tranquil surroundings. The course is renowned as one of the best all-weather courses in the region and tests players of all abilities, young or old, high or low handicaps.

While this course is considered one of the most challenging in the top of the South Island it is a popular course for all playing levels. The scenic yet challenging links style layout of the course in a tree lined parkland setting, is a pleasure to enjoy.

Greenacres has everything a good (and growing) golf club should have – a great course and facilities, and fabulous people that are friendly and welcoming and want you to be part of the club, even if just for one day  We look forward to seeing you soon.

www.greenacresgolfclub.co.nz

MOTUEKA GOLF CLUB

MOTUEKA GOLF CLUB, voted the 2018 NZ Golf Club of the Year, prides itself on running a friendly and welcoming club. The course is relatively flat and has a park like atmosphere with the fairways lined by mature trees. In addition to our beautifully maintained course we

A true links experience situated in the delightful region of sunny Nelson. A wonderful golf course, good enough to be chosen for the 2014 NZ Amateur Championships... high praise indeed. Golfers of all abilities will find a round at Nelson very rewarding enjoying simply stunning views. There is a vibrant social side to the club making new members and casual players feel welcome to enjoy camaraderie both on and off the course. There is a full bar and catering facilities, also open to non members. There

are great deals available on green fees and a wide range of memberships – contact the staff at the Nelson Golf club, who will be only too delighted to explain all the options available. Call 03-548-5029 or email nelson@golf.co.nz

Check out our website www.nelsongolf.co.nz and see what you’re missing. The site offers photos of the course plus other club informationhighlighting the Nelson Festival of Golf.

Check it out on www.nelsongolf. co.nz/festivalofgolf

are fortunate that it is alive with abundant and varied birdlife. The course has been modified and improved over recent years. The trees have been trimmed and our fairways have been widened which has made the course more “Golfer Friendly”. The fairways are well watered and beautifully grassed and our greens are consistent and true. For those players who played last year you will find our greens are in even better condition this year!

At 5800m off the White Tees the course rewards accuracy and correct club selection. Golfers of all abilities will welcome the challenge and if you play to your handicap on your first visit you should be well satisfied. You will be in the minority!

The course sits on the east side of Motueka and provides some stunning views of Tasman Bay. With an increasing membership and glowing reports from both local and overseas visiting players, Motueka’s reputation continues to grow as one of the best country courses in New Zealand. We look forward to again hosting new and returning players to the Nelson Festival of Golf. www.moteukagolf.co.nz

Nelson Golf Club Greenacres Golf Club

Motueka Golf Club

LONG DRIVE

Spotlight on New Zealand Long Blacks - Monica Chau XDL Juniors & Schools

MONICA’S BIO:

Monica Chau has played golf for 25 years. She is a NZPGA Professional and shares her passion via golf coaching in Auckland and is a new addition to the NZ Long Blacks Team. She is ranked second in New Zealand against the current world champion Philis Meti who holds our first place. Monica last year has competed in the World Long Drive Championships in America and finished Top 20 in the world. She has a recorded swing speed of 111mph and is in the process of continuing to ramp up her strength and speed.

Monica will be at the forefront of media promotions with the upcoming 3 day Trans Tasman Clash where the New Zealand Long Blacks take on the Aussie Long Blacks in Auck-

land from 31 October - 2nd November. Monica is a real superstar on and off the tee and is an absolute crowd favourite.

XDL, in partnership with the Student Volunteer Army (SVA), is bringing Long Drive into schools across New Zealand—aligning our Regional Championships with opportunities for young athletes to step up and shine! Now, we’re expanding into Australia with the XDL Trans-Tasman Crews, giving aspiring Long Drive champions a platform to compete on both sides of the ditch. From school Haka performances and entertainment at events to handson action with Fruit Guys’ “Give it a Go” sessions, XDL is committed to fostering the next generation of talent. Our young champs are already making waves, kicking off with the Taranaki Regionals, and we’re just getting started! Since 2016, XDL founder Olna Ford has included kids from regions in NZ and local events and with talent in Australia taking to the tee with interest XDL is focused on growing the opportunities for the young champs.

XDL, in association with the Student Volunteer Army (SVA), is revolutionizing the way young athletes experience Long Drive!

We’re bringing XDL into schools across New Zealand, creating a pathway from school sports to the Regional Championships and beyond. Now, we’re stepping it up with XDL Trans-Tasman Crews, expanding into Australia to give young hitters a shot at international competition!

WHAT’S HAPPENING?

* Local Schools Involved – From haka performances to on-course activations

* Fruit Guys “Give it a Go” Events – Inspiring young champs to step up to the tee

* Regional Junior Championships –Kicked off with Taranaki, growing nationwide

* TRANS-TASMAN CLASH – NOVEMBER

– 3 epic locations in Auckland

Whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or dreaming of becoming the next New Zealand Long Black or Aussie Long Baller, XDL is YOUR pathway to greatness!

Want to get your school involved? Head to www.xdlworldwide.com and join the movement!

Local Port Douglas Golf Champs with the New Zealand Long Blacks after winning the TTC.

Onekakā Links Golf Club

Amazing golfing experience at Onekakā in Golden Bay

With stunning vistas and memorable golf and hospitality, it’s a day you won’t forget.

book page which is regularly updated. The green fee of $75 per head for 18 holes for a minimum of four players covers:

* Exclusive use – no other players on the course that day

�ay to Novem�er indicated demand. assuming either or a family group �i.e. a minimum for two days� have the run of two days� ����� a couple �ut for two days� �reakfast

The Links Course is not long, but rarely conquered. It comprises one par 5, eight par 4 and nine par 3 holes, including two double greens and a triple green via major elevation changes, with ocean, ponds, cliffs, penal bunkering or roughs encircling the greens. The Mountain Course is a significantly more difficult challenge and not for the faint hearted. Visit www.onekakalinks.com for a course guide also incorporating drone footage of the course and testimonials of visiting players. We also have a Face-

* Golf cart and electric trundlers, laser distance finder

* Provision of two free golf balls per player

* A course guide – the course designer and club champion

* Hosted free drinks and snacks after the round

These daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.

• ���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum of ���� per night and ����� for two days�

• �ne couple ���� a night to have the run of the place ����� minimum for two days�

Although a private course, it’s open to visitors 364 days a year. However, to enable hosting arrangements bookings must be made at least two weeks in advance to chris@widespread.co.nz

“Golden Bay is full of amazing things to see and I just discovered another. If you play golf, Onekakā Links is a must visit. I have played golf all around the world and Onekakā gave me more fun and challenging shots than most courses that have hosted major championships. Your host Chris Castle with great imagination has created a wonderful course on a spectacular property. Thank you Chris, for a day to remember.”

make reservations transfer to the �account num�er secure a reservation. refunded in full if advance. Thereafter

of the box thinking. You have three or four green-sites that would rival the very best in New Zealand. I will be sending more people your way for sure.

drop a me line and I may try to volunteer some shovel time for you if the timing works!

Thank you again and it was so kind of you to host me there. “

�ay to Novem�er indicated demand. assuming either or a family group �i.e. a minimum for two days� have the run of two days� ����� a couple �ut for two days� �reakfast make reservations transfer to the �account num�er secure a reservation. refunded in full if advance. Thereafter morning to allow Normal Lodge out is �� am.

• Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� �ll tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations for the Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Links �S� account �account num�er �� ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter ��� will �e refunded.

- Kindest Regards, Bill Mackenzie (PGA Professional, St. Andrews East Golf Club, Canada)

morning to allow Normal Lodge out is �� am.

- CJ Kreuscher, Director of Agronomy for Te Arai Links and the original Superintendent of Tara iti, who recently played both courses.

three �edroom the Ōnekaka here to play golf, multitude of activities. water’s edge, it golf courses, the Golden �ay and kilometre of ith tidal and is teeming with groups of up to together or si� common lounge area e�tensive �ook throughout the cats that really like e�cept dogs.

“Onekakā Links is one of the most special New Zealand golf experiences one could have - it really is a must play for anyone who loves dramatic golf and out

These daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.

The Lodge at Ōnekaka Links

You really chose all the best green sites to maximize your property. Your green in the far coastal corner of the property does this so well. The triple green with the bunker and lower green level and water hazard. It is the interest you created that is so much fun. Onekakā can’t fit inside a box and it should not be contained by the world’s idea of a routing and par. It is just an awesome place to play golf.

• ���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum of ���� per night and ����� for two days�

Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge is a three �edroom apartment in the upper level of the Ōnekaka Links �lu�house.

�ur standard tee time is mid morning to allow time for course preparation. Normal Lodge check in is after � pm and check out is �� am.

Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge is a three �edroom apartment in the upper level of the Ōnekaka Links �lu�house.

• �ne couple ���� a night to have the run of the place ����� minimum for two days�

The Lodge at Ōnekaka Links

You and Richard Barham have done such an amazing job with your property - really impressive stuff. If you ever end up doing that new green we discussed

“Great day out at the Onekakā Links in Golden Bay. Stunning scenery. Some exciting holes and wonderful hospitality. It’s a very unique offering but lots of fun and risk and reward. Wonderful hospitality from President Chris Castle and Club Captain Linda Sanders. Highly recommended. “

- Barry Johnston, Wanaka

Ōnekaka Links Lodge offers the only onsite stay and play opportunity in the upper South Island and one of a very few in New Zealand

Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge is a three �edroom apartment in the upper level of the Ōnekaka Links �lu�house.

Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge is a three �edroom apartment in the upper level of the Ōnekaka Links �lu�house.

These daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.

These daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.

These daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.

These daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.

Links Golf Lodge offers the only onsite stay and play opportunity in the upper South Island and one of a very few in New Zealand

�hile most guests will come here to play golf, our remarka�le location offers a multitude of other indoor or outdoor activities.

�hile most guests will come here to play golf, our remarka�le location offers a multitude of other indoor or outdoor activities.

�hile most guests will come here to play golf, our remarka�le location offers a multitude of other indoor or outdoor activities.

The Lodge at Ōnekaka Links

Located only metres from the water’s edge, it has panoramic views of the two golf courses, the Ōnekaka �stuary and �iver, Golden �ay and �ahurangi National �ark, with a kilometre of water frontage access.

Located only metres from the water’s edge, it has panoramic views of the two golf courses, the Ōnekaka �stuary and �iver, Golden �ay and �ahurangi National �ark, with a kilometre of water frontage access.

• Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� �ll tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations for the Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er �� ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter ��� will �e refunded.

�hile most guests will come here to play golf, our remarka�le location offers a multitude of other indoor or outdoor activities.

• ���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum of ���� per night and ����� for two days�

• ���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum of ���� per night and ����� for two days�

• ���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum of ���� per night and ����� for two days�

• ���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum of ���� per night and ����� for two days�

• �ne couple ���� a night to have the run of the place ����� minimum for two days�

Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge offers the only onsite stay and play opportunity in the upper South and one of a very few in New Zealand

Located only metres from the water’s edge, it has panoramic views of the two golf courses, the Ōnekaka �stuary and �iver, Golden �ay and �ahurangi National �ark, with a kilometre of water frontage access.

Located only metres from the water’s edge, it has panoramic views of the two golf courses, the Ōnekaka �stuary and �iver, Golden �ay and �ahurangi National �ark, with a kilometre of water frontage access.

daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er

The vista changes �y the hour w ith tidal movements and the weather and is teeming with �ird and fish life

The vista changes �y the hour w ith tidal movements and the weather and is teeming with �ird and fish life

summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.

• �ne couple ���� a night to have the run of the place ����� minimum for two days�

• �ne couple ���� a night to have the run of the place ����� minimum for two days�

• �ne couple ���� a night to have the run of the place ����� minimum for two days�

• Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� �ll tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email

The vista changes �y the hour w ith tidal movements and the weather and is teeming with �ird and fish life

The vista changes �y the hour w ith tidal movements and the weather and is teeming with �ird and fish life

���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum ���� per night and ����� for two days�

�ur standard tee time is mid morning to allow time for course preparation. Normal Lodge check in is after � pm and check out is �� am.

�ne couple ���� a night to have the run of place ����� minimum for two days�

Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days�

The accommodation suits family groups of up to eight, three couples travelling together or si� individuals �ll �edrooms open onto a common lounge area with T� and a kitchenette. �ur e�tensive �ook collection is distri�uted throughout the apartment.

The accommodation suits family groups of up to eight, three couples travelling together or si� individuals �ll �edrooms open onto a common lounge area with T� and a kitchenette. �ur e�tensive �ook collection is distri�uted throughout the apartment.

The accommodation suits family groups of up to eight, three couples travelling together or si� individuals �ll �edrooms open onto a common lounge area with T� and a kitchenette. �ur e�tensive �ook collection is distri�uted throughout the apartment.

The accommodation suits family groups of up to eight, three couples travelling together or si� individuals �ll �edrooms open onto a common lounge area with T� and a kitchenette. �ur e�tensive �ook collection is distri�uted throughout the apartment.

�e have three very socia�le cats that really like chatting up all our visitors, e�cept dogs.

tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er

�e have three very socia�le cats that really like chatting up all our visitors, e�cept dogs.

�e have three very socia�le cats that really like chatting up all our visitors, e�cept dogs.

The Lodge at Ōnekaka Links

chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations for the Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er �� ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter ��� will �e refunded.

• Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� �ll tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations for the Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er �� ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter ��� will �e refunded.

�e have three very socia�le cats that really like chatting up all our visitors, e�cept dogs.

���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation.

�ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter will �e refunded.

standard tee time is mid morning to allow for course preparation. Normal Lodge in is after � pm and check out is �� am.

Links Golf Lodge offers the only onsite stay and play opportunity in the upper South Island and one of a very few in New Zealand

• Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� �ll tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations for the Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er �� ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter ��� will �e refunded.

• Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� �ll tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations for the Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er �� ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter ��� will �e refunded.

�ur standard tee time is mid morning to allow time for course preparation. Normal Lodge check in is after � pm and check out is �� am.

�ur standard tee time is mid morning to allow time for course preparation. Normal Lodge check in is after � pm and check out is �� am.

�ur standard tee time is mid morning to allow time for course preparation. Normal Lodge check in is after � pm and check out is �� am.

�ur standard tee time is mid morning to allow time for course preparation. Normal Lodge check in is after � pm and check out is �� am.

The Lodge at Ōnekaka Links

Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge offers the only onsite stay and play opportunity in the upper South Island and one of a very few in New Zealand

The Lodge at

The Lodge at Ōnekaka Links

Ōnekaka Links

The Lodge at Ōnekaka Links

The Lodge at Ōnekaka Links

Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge offers the only onsite stay and play opportunity in the upper South Island and one of a very few in New Zealand

Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge offers the only onsite stay and play opportunity in the upper South Island and one of a very few in New Zealand

Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge offers the only onsite stay and play opportunity in the upper South Island and one of a very few in New Zealand

Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge offers the only onsite stay and play opportunity in the upper South Island and one of a very few in New Zealand

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGIONS

Northland Strokeplay for 2025 The Auckland 9 Hole District Tournament!

The winners of the Northland Strokeplay for 2025 played recently...

Men’s Open - Haki Heke (South Head Golf Club)

Women’s Open - Teresa Wang (Remuera Golf Club)

Men’s Masters - Nathan Jacoby (Waipu Golf Club)

Women’s Masters - Selina Liu (Pupuke Golf Course)

The Auckland 9 Hole District Tournament!

9 Hole District Champion: Anne Nielsen with 22 points!

Mary Cole Trophy Winner: Anna Masefield with a 49 gross, taking the win on the 3rd play-off hole! Played recently at Howick Golf Club.

2025 Waikato Secondary Schools Matchplay

Jio Jeoung( St Peter’s ) on winning the 2025 Waikato Secondary Schools Matchplay Championships played at Te Awamutu Golf Club recently. With her accuracy off the tee and pin

point iron play as well as her consistent all round game, she over came the challenge from Joel Gurnell ( HBHS ) eventually winning 5-4 in the final.

Three generations, one love for golf!

From Iowa to Mount Maunganui, Thea, her mum, and her grandma celebrated She Loves Golf International Women’s Day together—proving that golf is for everyone, no matter your age!

Kia ora, I’m Thea Tulloch, and I love

golf! I’m 10 years old and started learning to play when I was five at Mt Maunganui Golf Club. When I first joined, there were mostly boys in the lessons, but last year, the club started an all-girls group, which has been awesome.

My mum used to play golf as a kid in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and my grandma plays in the Saturday women’s group at our club. A couple of weeks ago, the three of us signed up for the She Loves Golf International Women’s Day event at Mt Maunganui. I was the only kid there, but that didn’t bother me. It was an ambrose format, and on the second hole, we used three of my shots out of four! My grandma said playing together was “just the icing on the cake,” which made me smile.

It was so cool seeing so many ladies out on the course, especially some who had never played before. My mum said one of her highlights was seeing how much joy I had playing alongside them. I even told her, “We should do this every week!” She said it made her want to play more too.

2025 Taupo Men’s Ambrose Pairs

Taranaki’s Robin Smith and Andrew Searle for taking out the 2025 Taupo Men’s Ambrose Pairs following up there 59 on Centennial with a final round

of 57 on Tauhara. They were at the top of the leaderboard for the Nett, Gross and were the winning Calcutta team making someone considerably better off.

WELLINGTON

North Island Seniors

BFarm Heritage Golf Club‘s Stephen Hunger recently won the North Island Seniors at Paraparau-

oulcotts

mu Beach Golf Club with rounds of 69, 74 and an eagle 3 on the 18th to win the playoff over Mike Trass and Tam Slaven.

Tasman Golf She Loves Golf International Women’s Day

We had an incredible time celebrating the power, talent, and strength of women golfers from all over. The day was filled with friendly competition, inspiring conversations, and a shared love for the game. A huge

thank you to all the participants, donations of money and prizes, and volunteers who made this event a success. Together, we continue to break barriers and pave the way for future generations of women in golf.

Canterbury Men’s Over 50’s & 60’s Interclub

The Canterbury Men’s Over 50’s & 60’s Interclub Competition was completed on Sunday 16 February, with the final round being hosted by McLeans Island Golf Club.

25 teams of 4 competed over the six round competition with following results;

* Over 50’s Team Gross Champion – Coringa

* Over 50’s Team Net Champion – Coringa

* Over 50’s Individual Gross Champion –

John Rademakers (Coringa)

* Over 50’s Individual Net Champion –Lin Wang (Coringa)

* Over 60’s Team Gross Champion – Pegasus

* Over 60’s Team Net Champions –Clearwater

* Over 60’s Individual Gross Champion –Jeff Bracewell (Templeton)

* Over 60’s Individual Net Champion –Brian East (Kaiapoi)

Otago Eagles Intercollegiate

Adominant Kings High School team led the way at the Otago Eagles Intercollegiate at Cromwell Golf Club on Monday 3rd of March.

Kings High team of Albie Reed, Will Summers, and Kairangi Koni set the bar as the leading team at the Eagles Intercollegiate and earning their spot in the New Zealand Secondary Schools final to be played in Wellington in August.

This could be the changing of tides for an event that has been previously dominted by Wakatipu High School.

The low round of the day, 4-under 68, shot by Will Summers, helped his team overcome the reigning 3 time cham-

pions Wakatipu High School who came in second place with a score of 147. Albie Reed and Kairangi Koni both shot rounds of even par, 72, meaning that the top 3 scores from the day would come from King’s golfers. The win from Kings High marks their frist year heading to the New Zealand Secondary Schools. With Albie Reed and Kairangi Koni reutrning next year, the team will look to defend their title in 2026.

South Otago High student Charles Young took out the nett with an astounding score of 63, followed closley by Kaikorai Valley College pupil Campbell Tate on 64.