Nestled in the heart of New Zealand, the Otago Golf Club, affectionately known as “Balmacewen,” stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the sport. Established in 1871, it is one of the oldest golf courses in the Southern Hemisphere, boasting a legacy that spans over a century.

This is partially correct, as the heavy Scottish heritage in this area did establish a club in 1871 only to see membership falter and resurrect one year (1892) after Christchurch had re-established its own club in 1891.

In either case Balmacewen (BALM-a-Que-En… as it is referred to by the locals) is a historic course. Golfing legends like Gene Sarazan, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player have graced its fairways. Markers on the course provide locations where approaches were made and tournaments won and lost. The course has hosted the New Zealand Open seven times- the first in 1908 and the last being in 1971, which was won by the great Peter Thompson.