By David Newbery
There is no sure thing when it
comes to attracting members
and casual golfers, but New
Zealand’s Terrace Downs Resort is
experiencing a surge in activity.
golfers personally affected by the
earthquakes temporarily dropped
out of the game.
The popular resort at Windwhistle,
an hour west of Christchurch near
the Southern Alps, has reported a
spike in golfer numbers compared
to 2012 figures.
“We had to look at how we go
forward, how we attract business
and what makes us different from
any other golf courses,” Davis said.
“With senior management’s
assistance, a strategic marketing
plan was devised, which has
resulted in huge interest from the
local market.
Golf manager and NZ PGA
professional Nigel Davis said he
was delighted with the jump in the
number of golfers taking up the
challenge.
“Figures have been soaring and
from the same period in the
previous year, we have had an
increase of over 1000 golfers.”
Some of the initiatives included:
“After the devastating earthquakes
in Christchurch and surrounding
areas, the business sector was hit
exceptionally hard,” he said.
• introducing a senior pro-am;
• hosting monthly tournaments
like the Gold Nugget Trophy and
the High Country Challenge; and
• assisting with fundraising
initiatives.
“We (Terrace Downs Resort) felt
many shakes and luckily only
suffered minor damage.”
Still, the resort, like many other
businesses, had to re-evaluate
its golf business plan when
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“In 2012, we were proud to have
played a part in raising over
$NZ100,000 for local charities,”
Davis said.
The Golf Marketing Professionals www.golfindustrycentral.com.au
“Our social media marketing
has taken some giant leaps
and our reach from this has
far exceeded our expectations.
We are constantly on
Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and
Instagram.”
“Our social media marketing has
taken some giant leaps and our
reach from this has far exceeded
our expectations. We are constantly
on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and
Instagram.”
“Interaction has been a big
ingredient to our success and we
are constantly looking at new and
exciting ways to get our message
out there.
“Golfers,” says Davis, “are becoming
increasing reluctant to take up
memberships, however, playing the
game remains a high priority.
“Although there has been a
huge push from governing golf
associations with intent to increase