Golf Industry Central Winter 2012 | Page 26

NEW ZEALAND - the perfect golf destination By Andrew Whiley From golf courses such as Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnapper, that rate in the world’s top 100, to member- based golf courses like Titirangi in Auckland, Rotorua Golf Club, Russley in Christchurch through to Chisholm Park in Dunedin. New Zealand boasts over 350 golf courses and the population is just over 4 million, so there are plenty of golf courses with available tee times. 24 Golf courses in New Zealand are not a test of endurance nor have they been designed “ “ New Zealand is a country that was ‘designed’ to be a great golf destination. With a climate ideal for 365 days of golf, great grass growing course conditions, and stunning views of rolling country side, there is no better country in the world to play golf. pay as little as $10 and have sheep sharing your fairways to test the professionals. Most golf courses are member based and are designed for the ‘average’ golfer and will allow you to enjoy The Golf Marketing Professionals www.golfindustrycentral.com.au the conditions without losing many golf balls. Most are also very sociable and you will be welcomed into the clubhouses for a drink and a chat after your round. The clubhouse is also the best place for visiting golfers to learn about the local area and get the tips on the best places to eat and what to see and do. New Zealand golf is broken down into three categories of golf courses: Tourism/Resort courses that have been designed with the visiting golfer in mind usually boasting outstanding factors that will make you go “wow”, member - based golf courses that primarily cater to the golf club members but welcome visiting green fee players, and country courses that are run by local enthusiastic golfers which dot the