Te Arai Links is the latest golf course build in New Zealand, and sister to the famed (and very exclusive) Tara Iti. Located on a massive beachfront property about 1.5 hours north of Auckland, Te Arai Links is a publicly-accessible golf resort officially opened to both its members and to the public last October (10/2022).
Developed by American Ric Kayne, when fully complete, this resort will feature two courses, a spa and multiple restaurants. Accommodations on prem include Suites and multi-room builds which nestle into oceanfront dunes.
Feedback on the course and facilities has been positive from those who we have already enjoyed a stay at the resort, with some commenting that Te Arai is more friendly to play because of its wide and forgiving fairways.
In either case, the views are guaranteed to be memorable, with a majority of the holes running along the coast of the Pacific Ocean.
South Course: Designed by Coore-Crenshaw, construction on this course began in September 2020. Taking about a year to build (certainly taxing given the country's quarantine rules and strict lockdown during Covid) it opened for play in October 2022. We imagine it will surely become one of the higher-rated courses in the world (when the reviewers that be eventually make their way down to New Zealand).
Until October 2024, this course will remain the only open for play. However, it is well worth playing multiple times and is an amazing setting and accessible course for all skill levels. We are excited for the future of Te Arai and our team has already started to plan for 23-24. The resort will add an additional course: the South Course. Designed by Tom Doak's team, visitors are sure to enjoy this additional experience on one of the more beautiful and exciting terrains for golf in the country.
Accommodations and Cuisine at Te Arai
There are 48 Suites at Te Arai– either Super King or Queen Twin, and 8 Two-Bedroom Cottages. Additional Two-Bedroom Cottages will be coming online in late 2023/ early 2024 as well as Four-Bedroom Villas, which are planned for the "not-too-distant future."
Ric’s Restaurant is a relaxed and casual dining location which sits on the edge of a 2-acre Practice Putting Green. This is certainly the place to enjoy cold drinks as you come off of the 18th. While it is the only place to eat on prem currently, the menu is diverse and additional food and beverage locations will be introduced soon.
Tip: The resort is located in Auckland, but remains a drive from the CBD. If visiting Te Arai Links we suggest a stay at the resort itself. If visiting with those who do not golf, a guided day trip to boutique art and wine installations in the Matakana area is a great combination with on-prem spa and massage.
