Luxury Golf & Travel To New Zealand
Luxury Golf & Travel To New Zealand
They have a course in Rotorua, in the middle of the volcanic region, where the turf is as good as on any golf course. Its excellence seems to indicate that an excess of sulphur is favourable to the development of the finest of the dwarf golfing grasses. – Alister Mackenzie, The Spirit of St. Andrews
Established in 1906, Rotorua Golf Club is one of New Zealand’s oldest courses. Its current location was settled in 1912, and in January 1927, the renowned golf architect Alister Mackenzie is guessed to have visited.
Although records are scattered, the lore of this area cites that he met with fellow golf architect Charles Redhead and wrote that he played “in a foursome over the best course in New Zealand, and at the end of the round we had lost between us 14 balls.”
To which course Mackenize was referring to in his statement is unknown, however he was in the Rotorua area and confirmed that he advised Redhead on the placement of a few bunkers and trees.
Whether in the area to fish, or searching for a bit of New Zealand golf history, Rotorua GC continues to provide a golfing experience that can not be had anywhere else. Gurgling mud pools and steaming vents line parts of the course, creating a Jurassic-era atmosphere.
The area is well-known for being a historic location for sulfuric activity and relaxing mud spa’s. Rest assured however that while playing the course is not nearly as… effervescent?… potent?… odorous? …as other parts of the town.
If you are not accurate this course will eat golf balls… as it perhaps did to Sir Alister so many years ago. For slightly easier play and a round with the locals, try next door’s nine-hole “Thermal Course.”
3rd: Players should take care to pay attention of their tee shot- as over-cooking it will put the ball into a creek that runs from side-to-side and prior to the raised green. Advice: take an iron off of the tee and leave a full wedge to the elevated pin. Other notable holes include 14, 15, and 16 which are played around a lake. When instructed in the clubhouse to secure an extra ball or two, these holes are the reason why
14th,15th, 16th: These three holes all play around the thermal pool, with the par-3 14th easily swallowing golfballs.
Whether you’re a history buff, a golf enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique adventure, Rotorua Golf Club offers an unforgettable experience. With its rich history, stunning natural surroundings, and challenging course, it’s a must-play for any visitor to New Zealand.
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