New Zealand packs extraordinary scenery into two islands: clifftop courses above the Pacific, golf among volcanic landscapes and geothermal areas, and mountain courses beneath the Southern Alps. The country has a strong golf culture, with hundreds of courses, many of them friendly, affordable club courses alongside a handful of world-famous resort layouts.
North Island
Auckland
New Zealand's largest city has many courses, some with harbour and ocean views.
Northland and the Bay of Islands
North of Auckland, clifftop courses overlook the Pacific, with beaches, islands and historic sites nearby.
Taupō and Rotorua
The volcanic plateau around Lake Taupō and the geothermal town of Rotorua offer golf near steaming vents, lakes and forests.
Hawke's Bay
The sunny east coast around Napier and Hastings combines clifftop and parkland golf with wine country.
Wellington
The capital has courses in the hills and along the coast, though it is known for wind.
South Island
Queenstown and Wanaka
Surrounded by mountains and lakes, Queenstown and nearby Wanaka offer some of the most spectacular golf settings anywhere. Courses often have dramatic elevation changes and views of snow-capped peaks.
Canterbury and Christchurch
The plains around Christchurch have flat, parkland and links-style courses, often good value.
Other regions
Nelson, Marlborough and Otago offer golf combined with wine, beaches and wildlife.
When to go
| Season | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | September to November | Fresh and green, changeable weather |
| Summer | December to February | Warmest and busiest; long days |
| Autumn | March to May | Settled weather and autumn colour |
| Winter | June to August | Cool; snow in the mountains |
Practical tips
- Club courses welcome visitors and are very affordable.
- Famous resort courses require booking ahead and can be expensive.
- Distances: allow time for scenic drives; many roads are winding.
- Sun protection: UV levels are high. Read sun protection for golfers.
- Wind: read how to play golf in the wind.
- Jet lag: read jet lag and golf trips.
Sample trip ideas
- North Island loop: Auckland, Northland, Rotorua and Taupō.
- South Island mountain week: Queenstown and Wanaka golf with adventure activities.
- Golf and wine: Hawke's Bay and Marlborough.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for golf in New Zealand?
October to April, the southern spring, summer and autumn.
Is golf in New Zealand expensive?
Club courses are cheap; famous resort courses are expensive.
Which island is better for golf?
Both are excellent. The North Island has more courses; the South Island has dramatic mountain golf.
Can I combine New Zealand and Australia on one golf trip?
Yes, though both deserve time. Read golf in Australia.
The bottom line
New Zealand offers stunning scenery, friendly club golf and some spectacular resort courses. Travel in the southern summer, mix famous courses with local clubs, and leave time for the landscapes. For more long-haul golf, read golf in Australia.