Northland

Over a thousand years ago the first people arrived in Hokianga Harbor. having crossed vast stretches of the Pacific ocean in open air boats. Guided by the stars, what they found was a land of temperate climate, golden beaches and secluded coves producing miles of dramatic coastline.

The Māori regard the Northland as a spiritual place, and as the birthplace of the country, it holds great significance for the entire nation. In 1840 it was here that New Zealand itself was founded with the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, and historic buildings remain in this region as a result of these early settlers.

The Northland is well suited for the golf traveler throughout the entire year. As it is the farthest point north (and thus closer to the equator) the climate is subtropical and shares ocean currents with the Polynesian islands. This area boasts the highest average temperature of the country- about 62 degrees F in the winter and 75 degrees F in the summer. Courses in this area also will drain very well due to their sandy base.

Many golfers who visit New Zealand will focus on playing the world-renown Kauri Cliffs, but if afforded more time, the region also provides additional experiences which are both cost-effective and uniquely Kiwi. Few places in the world have local links style courses in which one may have the surf pounding the sand on one side while on the other side dunes rise.

Day trips within the area include salt-water fishing, sailing, beaches, hikes among the native bush and diving.

Kaitaia GC

Located next to 90-mile beach, a destination which attracts thousands to the 'Winterless North' that is the Northland, Kaitaia is a true links course complete with mountains that fade into a beautiful sprawling sand beach

Kauri Cliffs Golf Course

With fifteen holes either along side the Pacific Ocean or played from a commanding view, Kauri Cliffs remains one of the top destinations for golf in New Zealand, and one of the most beautiful in the world.

Carrington Estate

Located on a massive resort on the Karikari peninsula this course is both modern in length and design

Waitangi Golf Club

Elevated above the Bay of Islands this course offers both a challenge and beautiful views of the sea during play

Waipu Golf Club

Adjacent to Bream Bay this local gem is always in excellent shape and a perfect for a round of golf and small bite to eat on the drive between Auckland and the Northland.

Mangawhai Golf Club

A beautiful links course located near one of the regions's famous beaches renown for surfing

Customer reviews

It was a trip of a lifetime with truly unique beauty not found anywhere else. A New Zealand trip requires a specialist who knows the lay of the land the unique challenges of traveling and sight-seeing there.

The country looks a lot smaller than it really is, and travel times are longer than one can assume.

The route chosen by Cristina helped us maximize our time there. I’m usually a do it yourself traveler, but for this trip I’m sure glad I had Cristina at Best of New Zealand.

—Dawn P., Highland Ranch, CO

I thank you for our wonderful trip to NZ. You and Bill are special people, and we look forward to keeping you as extended family! You are certainly welcome back anytime, and we will look forward to seeing your wonderful family if/when we get out to LA-- maybe Clippers in the playoffs? Blessings to your family.

I will get with Debi, and see which pictures make us look the youngest! If you need any "references or testimonials" that I could share, just let me know how I can help.

—Carlan and Deb Y., Oklahoma City

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