new zealand golf trips

New Zealand Golf Packages

Playing around new zealand has provided golf holidays within our beautiful country since 2003..

During this time we have welcomed thousands of overseas golfers to our shores and whether they were travelling alone, with friends, or part of a large corporate group they have been provided an itinerary that is unique to them. We have listed several tour samples which offer prospective guests an idea of the New Zealand golf travel experience that we can provide. These tours will be customized in any way to suit you.

Guided NZ Golf Tours

Luxury Golf Tours

Custom Itineraries

Australia & Pacific

Luxury New Zealand Golf Vacations

The ultimate golf adventure, take a trip to dramatic new zealand.

With more golf holes per capita than any other country, there is enough quality golf to play on the two main islands of New Zealand (North and South) for several months. Combined with all the adventure sports, wine tasting, dramatic scenery, world-class fishing, and cultural events, we suggest taking at least two weeks to fully maximize the experience.

New Zealand, being a country that stretches north and south, experiences dramatic changes in scenery and climate within short distances. In contrast to the United States, the warmest parts of New Zealand are in the north and the coldest in the south.

The Best Golf Destinations in New Zealand

North Island

The tip of the North Island, featuring the Bay of Islands, has a tropical feel. The temperate area around Auckland is excellent for growing grapes and features fabulous wines. Further south you have the prehistoric feeling of the hot springs of Rotorua and the magnificent Lake Taupo. Finally at the bottom of the North Island is the capital city of Wellington. 

Championship golf on the North Island includes Cape Kidnappers , Te Arai , Paraparaumu Beach , Kauri Cliffs , Royal Wellington, The Kinloch Club, Waitangi, Rotorua, and Wairakei, Royal Auckland, Titirangi.

South Island

The South Island features dramatic mountains and ‘The Adventure Capital of the World’ Queenstown. The home of Bungy jumping, Shotover River jet boats, parasailing, and sky diving. Take a trip to Milford Sound and you will feel like you are in the heart of the Alps. Christchurch is quintessentially English, while Dunedin is firmly Scottish in character.

Championship golf on the South Island includes Jack’s Point, The Hills, Queenstown, Clearwater, Russley, Arrowtown, Christchurch, and Millbrook.

New Zealand’s Best Golf Courses

Cape Kidnappers

After realizing his dream at Kauri Cliffs, American billionaire, the late Julien Robertson, turned his attention to doing the same at another stunning site – Cape Kidnappers on the southern tip of Hawke’s Bay.

Kauri Cliffs

The golf world stood up and paid attention when the late hedge fund billionaire, Julien Robertson, opened the David Harman-designed course in 2004, on his working sheep ranch in New Zealand.

Like Julien Robertson before him, fund manager Ric Kayne and managing partner Jim Rohrstaff set out to scale new golf heights on the sandy turf of New Zealand’s North Island.

Paraparaumu

Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers were not the first New Zealand courses to grace the World’s Top 100 Course rankings – that long-running distinction belongs to Paraparaumu Beach Links on the North Island.

Explore New Zealand

New Zealanders are very proud of their athletic achievements from a small nation, if you have time take in a rugby or cricket match. Celebrate the indigenous Māori culture by learning the Haka and sample their national dish, Pavlova, a delightful meringue and fruit dessert. It is also the backdrop for many movies including the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Flights between the two islands are numerous and relatively inexpensive. Driving is on the left side of the road like in the UK, however, there are more sheep than cars, so traffic will not be an issue.

New Zealand Reviews

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Book your New Zealand golf vacation with Premier Golf

Premier Golf has been organizing golf vacations and tours since its founding in 1988, and you can rest assured our experts will tailor your next vacation to meet your specific wants and needs.

Representatives will be on hand to help you dream up the most spectacular New Zealand golf trip. Whatever your desires, Premier Golf will ensure that you receive the best customer service, every step of the way.

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New Zealand FAQs

New Zealand has 396 golf courses, ranging from scenic coastal links to challenging inland layouts.

Although not a major tournament, New Zealand hosts the Men’s and Women’s Open Championships annually.

Yes, while all-inclusive resorts are available, most accommodations are self-catered lodges, providing a unique local experience.

Yes, Premier Golf provides fully customizable golf tours in New Zealand, allowing golfers to tailor their trip to their specific preferences and interests.

Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Best things to do in the North Island
• Best things to do in the South Island
• Other Islands
• Best ways to travel around
• Calculate travel times and distances

Golf holiday itineraries

Millbrook Resort, Queenstown

By Miles Holden

Tee off alongside dramatic coastline one day and play along rolling fairways the next. Let us plan your perfect golf holiday for you.

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North Island Golf Highlights Itinerary

9 Days — 1300 km

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Tour the North Island and visit a multitude of stunning golf courses.

Our recommended golf itineraries – New Zealand Golf Tour , North Island Highlights , South Island Highlights – will lead you to the best courses in New Zealand and highlight other great activities within the area. The golf courses within these itineraries will test a wide variety of shots and have been training grounds for our top golfers including Michael Campbell, Sir Bob Charles, Greg Turner, Phil Tataurangi, Frank Nobilo, Danny Lee and Lydia Ko.

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Best of New Zealand Golf Tours: Created By Golfers

Golf New Zealand’s top-rated courses with this itinerary designed by golfers. Cap off your golf tour with the crowning gems of New Zealand golf: Cape Kidnappers and Kauri Cliffs.

This Best of New Zealand Golf Tours: Created By Golfers package showcases the best that New Zealand has to offer. New Zealand is quickly becoming one of the best golf locations in the world. We designed this trip for a couple from Florida, who stayed at the country’s most luxurious lodges and hotels while golfing the most famous courses. All green fees, golf carts for 2 passengers, and rental clubs are included in this golf lover’s dream itinerary.

We started their Best of New Zealand Golf Tours: Created By Golfers package in the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown. From here, they golfed at Millbrook and Jack’s Point. They also had some free time to take in Queenstown’s beautiful scenery and went on an optional wine tour of the Otago region. Next, they flew to quaint Christchurch and traveled to Canterbury to golf Terrace Downs Golf Course.

Continuing their Best of New Zealand Golf Tours: Created By Golfers package, they hopped back up to the North Island for Paraparaumu Beach Golf Course and Kinloch Golf Course. These varied courses offer challenging golf for players of all levels, as well as beautiful views of iconic New Zealand scenery. During their free time in Wellington, the couple enjoyed a visit to Zealandia, a nature reserve filled with native flora and fauna that has been restored to the way New Zealand looked before humans arrived.

Then they drove to Hawke’s Bay for their amazing experience at Cape Kidnappers, one of New Zealand’s top courses, and enjoyed some of the world-renowned local wine. The last stop on their Best of New Zealand Golf Tours: Created By Golfers package was the crowning gem of the New Zealand golf courses, Kauri Cliffs. To many, this spectacular course is second to none.

After more than 2 weeks golfing some of the top-rated golf courses in the Southern Hemisphere, their vacation came to an end. They caught a flight to Auckland to begin their journey home.

Accommodation

• 4 Nights Auzr Lodge
• 1 Night Fable Terrace Downs Resort
• 2 Nights Peppers Clearwater Resort
• 3 Nights Bolton Hotel
• 2 Nights Acacia Cliffs
• 3 Nights The Farm at Capekidnappers
• 3 Nights The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs
• 18 Holes The Millbrook Resort
• 18 Holes Jacks Points
• 18 Holes Fable Terrace Downs
• 18 Holes Paraparaumu Beach
• 18 Holes Kinloch Golf Course
• 18 Holes Cape Kidnappers
• 18 Holes Kauri Cliffs

Transportation

• All private airport transfers

Insider’s Tip

Annie, Down Under Endeavours After your day of golf, I recommend you head to downtown Queenstown for dinner. They have some amazing restaurants and bars. For fine cuts of beef and exceptional dining, I recommend Botswana Butchery. Or, for the best burgers in town, you can’t miss Queenstown’s famous Fergburger!

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1 Welcome to New Zealand! Arrive in Auckland in the early morning and meet our local representative, who will escort you to your domestic flight. A hop down to Queenstown in the early afternoon starts your trip. A delight for scenery lovers and adrenaline junkies alike, Queenstown is the outdoor adventure capital of New Zealand, if not the world. There are an endless supply of activities to let you fully experience the stunning natural landscape and get your adrenaline flowing. The feeling is that of a frontier town, with stunning mountains surrounding it and placid Lake Wakatipu alongside. Azur Lodge

Day 2 This morning, you have a round of 18 holes at Millbroook Resort . Dwarfed by the surrounding mountain ranges of The Remarkables and Coronet Peak, the dramatic terrain challenges all levels of players. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps a spa treatment at Millbrook if you’d like, or an afternoon hike. Azur Lodge

Day 3 Today is yours to enjoy however you please. If you like, we can arrange additional activities, such as the famous adrenaline pursuits of bungy jumping, skydiving, canyoning, whitewater rafting, scenic helicopter flights, nature hikes (amazing in this region), and hundreds of other activities that make Queenstown unique. For wine lovers, a must-do is a tour to the Otago wine region, famous for its earthy pinot noirs. Azur Lodge

Day 4 Today, you’ll make your way to Jack’s Point Golf Course, where we have arranged a tee time that suits for 18 holes. This course is a par 72 championship course for golfers of any caliber. The course works with nature, not against it. Designed with minimal excavation, the course measures about 6900 yards from the championship tees and weaves through tussock grasslands, dramatic rock outcrops, steep bluffs, and swathes of native bush to the edge of Lake Wakatipu. The demanding, rugged layout demands some accurate golf to master, but will reward all players with incredible scenery and an unforgettable golf experience. Azur Lodge

Day 5 A short flight today brings you to Christchurch, where you’ll pick up your rental car and drive to your golf lodge at Fable Terrace Downs Resort. Fable Terrace Downs Resort

Day 6 Today you play Fable Terrace Downs Golf Course. Based at the foothills of the Southern Alps, there are few scenic alpine courses like it. The golf course at Fable Terrace Downs is fun and challenging for all golfers, from the first time novice to the aspiring professional. Discover just what it is that makes Fable Terrace Downs such a popular venue when it comes to golf courses in Christchurch and the entire Canterbury region!  After golf, drive back to Christchurch. This Christchurch accommodation epitomises the Canterbury region, and is set within beautiful grounds overlooking the clear, shimmering Lake Kaikainui. Peppers Clearwater Resort

Day 7 Today is your day at leisure to explore Christchurch. Peppers Clearwater Resort

Day 8 A short flight today takes you back up to the North Island to Wellington, your home for 3 nights. The dining and artistic hub of New Zealand, Wellington is filled with cafés, museums, and art; theatre performances and galleries abound. It is truly the “Coolest Little Capital in the World” (Lonely Planet). Surrounded almost entirely by beaches and bays, the hills of Wellington leave almost every location with a breathless view of the Cook Strait and the islands beyond. Your accommodations are in the city’s best hotel, where you have a suite in the city center, within walking distance of all the major sights. Special bonuses for booking with Down Under Endeavours include a complimentary bottle of local wine, tapas for 2, and tickets to the Zealandia nature park. The Bolton Hotel

Day 9 Self-drive a short way north today to Paraparaumu on the windswept Kapiti Coast for 18 holes at Paraparaumu Beach Golf Course, where Tiger Woods famously played. Regarded by many as one of the greatest links courses in the Southern Hemisphere, this course has hosted the New Zealand Open 12 times, a record surpassed by no other course. The course was designed by former Australian Open champion Alex Russell, onetime partner of Dr. Alistair McKenzie.

After an exciting day of golf, the afternoon is yours to enjoy Wellington at leisure. Tonight would be a good time to use your tickets for Zealandia, a nature preserve in the middle of Wellington where you can spot elusive kiwi birds, rare tuatara lizards, and the strange morepork in a setting that has returned to the way it looked before humans arrived. The Bolton Hotel

Day 10 Today is entirely at your leisure. Perhaps visit Te Papa Museum to see spectacular collections of local and Maori art. Enjoy this day off from golfing, resting your right arm in preparation for the best courses yet to come. The Bolton Hotel

Day 11 Drive a few hours to Lake Taupo in the center of the North Island. You’ll be staying at an elegant hotel just minutes from downtown, with views over Lake Taupo and Tongariro National Park beyond. Additional recommended activities include kayaking across Lake Taupo to Maori rock carvings, as well as visiting Huka Falls for a rush of fresh waterfall spray. Acacia Cliffs

Day 12 Today, drive a short way to Kinloch Golf Course for 18 holes in a parkland style layout designed by Lester George, dedicated to providing guests a premier golf experience with world-class course conditions. The course is designed to encourage walking (although you’ll have your own golf cart if you want it). This is a championship course of about 7200 yards from the tips, and is routinely rated as one of the best and most professional courses in New Zealand. Acacia Cliffs

Day 13 Drive a few short hours to Hawke’s Bay for one of the most famous courses in New Zealand: Cape Kidnappers. You’ll be staying right at the famous Farm at Cape Kidnappers, which includes pre-dinner drinks, hors d’oeuvres, a la carte dinners, heated infinity pool, jacuzzi, mountain bikes, and ample walking trails. A wild gannet colony dominates the point off the edge of the property in season. This is one of the best lodges in New Zealand and the scenery along Hawke’s Bay coastline is well worth it. The Farm at Cape Kidnappers

Day 14 Today, you’ll have 18 holes at the amazing Cape Kidnappers Golf Course . Designed by architect Tom Doak, the par 71 course measures 7119 yards and challenges golfers of all skill levels. Stand 140 meters above sea level and look out across the waves far below in Hawke’s Bay. The layout is not true links terrain, with its wrinkles of sand dunes; instead, the land tilts toward the sea as a series of ridges jutting out toward the edge of the cliffs. Three times, you’ll have to make the perilous leap from the end of one ridge to the end of the next. Careful! It takes 10 seconds of hang time for your ball to reach the ocean below. The Farm at Cape Kidnappers

Day 15 Today is yours enjoy Hawke’s Bay at leisure. Optional additional activities include: food and wine tours of famous Hawke’s Bay vineyards, Maori cultural tours, drives up the coast to waterfall hikes, scenic helicopter flights, and plenty more to keep you occupied. The Farm at Cape Kidnappers

Day 16 Today, you’ll take 2 short flight hops up to Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands with a private transfer to Kauri Cliffs Lodge. Along with Cape Kidnappers, this is the most famous lodge in the country and houses the most famous golf course. The tariff includes pre-dinner drinks, hors d’oeuvres, a la carte dinners, a complimentary mini bar including domestic beers (excludes liquor and wines), and use of the heated infinity pool, hot tub, lap pool, sauna, jacuzzi, tennis courts, 3 private beaches, mountain bikes, and ample walking tracks. Nearby is the Bay of Islands, home of famous Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs

Day 17 18 holes at the famous Kauri Cliffs Golf Course, designed by David Harman, have been arranged for you today. The par 72 championship golf course measures 7119 yards and offers 5 sets of tees to challenge every skill level. Fifteen holes view the Pacific Ocean, 6 of which are played alongside cliffs that plunge to the sea. The beautiful inland holes wind through marsh, forest, and farmland. The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs

Day 18 This is your final full day in New Zealand, and yours to use however you wish. Your lodge has excellent spa treatments, and the nearby area offers many additional activities: guided tours of Waitangi Treaty Grounds (where modern-day New Zealand history began), sails and cruises through the Bay of Islands, guided tours of enormous kauri tree forests, visits to quaint seaside townships, dolphin swimming, day trips up to Cape Reinga, or simply relaxing on the beach. The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs

Day 19 Enjoy your final scrumptious breakfast at the lodge this morning, then board your flight back to Auckland and then home. Give your back a rest after this luxurious golf holiday by opting for a business class flight—you’ll find it’s well worth it!

About this vacation

Cost per person.

Does not include the cost of airfare

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In a land of endless space and dramatic natural beauty, New Zealand offers some of the best golfing experiences on the planet. Select from one of our self-drive packages below, or speak to us about tailoring the perfect New Zealand golf holiday for you.

Golf highlights

• Kauri Cliffs Golf Club
• Cape Kidnappers Golf Club
• Wairakei International Golf Club
• Kinloch Golf Club
• Millbrook Golf Club
• Terrace Downs Golf Club
• Jack's Point Golf Club

Must See & Do

• See Auckland from the top of the Sky Tower
• Tour the beautiful Bay of Islands
• Taste the great wines of Hawkes Bay and Marlborough
• Cruise through Milford Sound
• Visit Queenstown, the adrenalin capital of the world

Time difference

• EST +2 hours
• New Zealand dollar / 1AUD = 1.03NZD
• No visa required for Australian citizens

New Zealand Plugpoint

Getting there

• Sydney – 3 hours
• Melbourne - 4 hours
• Adelaide - 5 hours
• Brisbane - 3 hours
• Perth - 6 hours 15 mins

Recommended airlines

• Virgin Australia
• Air New Zealand

Car hire is recommended. Hertz is Golf Explorers car hire partner worldwide. However private transfers can be arranged for all packages.

New Zealand weather

New Zealand's climate is pretty mellow for much of the year. There is a far greater seasonal difference in the South Island than in the subtropical North.

In Central Otago, winter temperatures are often 14°F (-10°C),with summers up to 100°F to 104°F (38°C-40°C). The northern part of the North Island is subtropical which means lots of winter/spring rain.

The west coast of the South Island can get up to 100 inches or more of rain a year on its side of the Southern Alps.

Best time to visit

• September – May

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It goes without saying that New Zealand golf holidays provide an experience like nowhere else – a fact that hasn’t been lost on anyone who’s been fortunate enough to enjoy a round or two here. Depending on your chosen course, you could find yourself staring open-mouthed at any number of beautiful backdrops: from endless ocean views to snow-capped mountains, alpine hillsides to sweeping valleys. As you stand on the 1st tee of pretty much any course you visit, you’ll quickly realise that playing golf in New Zealand is truly special.

But that’s just the beginning. Not only is the country home to some of the world’s finest courses, it also offers a serious amount of diverse choices. In fact, only Scotland is able to boast having more golf courses per capita. All of these options naturally mean that it’s pretty much guaranteed you’ll find a course that perfectly suits your budget and skill level.

At Golf Explorer, we have our own impressive selection of New Zealand golf holidays. You might just fancy fitting in a few relaxing rounds over a couple of days. Or maybe you like the sound of taking a week-long trip and enjoying as many games as you can. There’s no end to the packages available to make your dream trip become reality. We also offer a few truly unique options – our most spectacular being the Bay of Islands Luxury Heli-Golf Cruise. This package includes five rounds of golf and six nights’ accommodation, including a stay at sea on-board a cruise ship. But what really makes this package truly outstanding is the awe-inspiring helicopter ride that whisks you across the ocean from the helipad to the course.

With more than a little helping hand from nature, New Zealand’s golf resorts have been designed to leave every player with a desire to return again and again. When you combine drop-dead-gorgeous natural scenery with some of the world’s most beautifully designed courses, you end up with one of finest locations you can imagine to enjoy the great game. So whatever package you end up booking, New Zealand golfing holidays are always guaranteed to live long in the memory.

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Luxury golf vacations tailored just for you

Experience the ultimate in luxury golf travel with Experience Golf. Our expert team meticulously plans and executes unforgettable golf vacations, taking care of all the details so you can focus solely on your game.

Crafting Unforgettable Luxury Golf Vacations in New Zealand and around the world.

With four decades of expertise, Experience Golf is dedicated to crafting bespoke golf vacations that turn dreams into realities. We create experiences catered to your needs, allowing you to custom-build your ultimate luxury golf vacation. You decide where, when and how much you want to pay and play and we’ll handle the rest.

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We offer a range of custom luxury golf tours and packages that cater to your every need. From exclusive accommodation to tee times at world-renowned golf courses, we ensure a premium golf experience for all our clients.

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At Experience Golf we do all the hard yards, In a few simple steps we can build out the perfect luxury golf vaction for you and your needs. From selecting your preferred destinations and courses to arranging accommodations and tee times, our team makes it easy to create your dream golfing experience.

Choose your destination and preferred golf courses from our extensive selection.

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Our team creates a bespoke itinerary tailored to your needs.

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Your trip is fully customizable to suit your preferences and budget.

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At Experience Golf, we curate bespoke golf vacations tailored to your every preference. With over four decades of industry experience, our team will help you bring your dream golf vacation into a reality.

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Unlock the doors to some of the world's most prestigious golf courses with Experience Golf. Our exclusive partnerships grant you access to private clubs and elite tournaments, ensuring a truly unique and privileged golfing experience.

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Enjoy peace of mind with our 24/7 customer support. Whether you're on the course or off, our dedicated team is always available to assist you, providing round-the-clock assurance for a flawless and stress-free vacation.

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From the moment you contact us to the completion of your journey, our meticulous planning process ensures a seamless experience. We handle every detail, from tee times and transportation to accommodations and dining, allowing you to focus solely on your game and relaxation.

See what our clients have to say

Hear from our clients unforgettable experiences with Experience Golf. From stunning courses to impeccable service, read their testimonials below:

By taking care of all the details including the last-minute changes, Jono arranged it all so we can Experience golf heaven on earth.

There were luxurious lodges nestled in serene nature with spectacular views, nightly five course luscious meals in private rooms, unfamiliar stars dotting the sky.

Many thanks for the trip for my brothers and I to Pebble Beach. We had a fantastic time. The Spanish Inn is the right place to stay. Great atmosphere.

Jono, we so appreciate you taking time to meet us and transport us and ALL of our luggage to and from Tara Iti. We certainly feel like we got a taste of Melbourne and New Zealand. We were so impressed with the people and the land and the conservation efforts that are taken to keep New Zealand naturally beautiful. Ending the vacation with the most incredible Helicopter tour yesterday was the icing on the cake!

Golf was truly spectacular, all 10 rounds occasionally surrounded by spectator sheep, trying to keep an eye on the ball from the competing peaks and valleys, noticing impact sound through crisp air bouncing off the sky. A memorable picnic at a snow capped mountain top during the Heli tour of the Milford sound, sailing catamaran cruise at the Bay of Islands with lovely Rainy and Neal, and surprisingly wonderful ATV tour of Kauri Cliffs were weaved in perfectly between the rounds.

Many thanks for the trip for my brothers and I to Pebble Beach. We had a fantastic time. The Spanish Inn is the right place to stay. Great atmosphere. The links at Spanish Bay was terrific, too good a course for me, but fantastic. Poopy Hills was really nice and a bit easier more like courses I was used to. Pebble Beach, what a course. Like you suggested the tee off was touch and go to finish, but we did finish all 18, although it was pretty dark putting on the 18th. The sea mist coming in was just about more of an issue at times, but really added to it all.

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Home » All Luxury Escapes » 07 Day New Zealand Golf Itinerary

07 Day New Zealand Golf Itinerary

From NZD$16,199 / USD$9,599 per adult subject to availability

Luxury Escape Includes

  Nights

  5 Star

Tour Planner

  Tour Planner

  Car Rental

  Breakfast

Pre Dinner Drinks

  Pre Dinner Drinks

Evening Meals

  Evening Meals

  Golf

• 7 Nights in Luxury Lodge Accommodation
• Premium Rental Car - 7 Day Hire
• 18 Holes of Golf at the Kinloch Club, Taupo
• 18 Holes of Golf at Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, Hawkes Bay
• 18 Holes at 'The Hills' Golf Course, Queenstown
• 18 Holes of Golf at Jack's Point Golf Course, Queenstown
• Daily Gourmet Breakfast
• Seven nights of Pre-dinner Drinks and Canapés
• Seven Exquisite Evening Meals

Luxury Escape Price

*Please note USD pricing and conversions vary.

GET A QUOTE

Plan a luxury New Zealand golf trip and play the best golf courses in the country. New Zealand Luxury Escapes will help you plan an unforgettable golf holiday.

Our recommended 7 Day New Zealand Golf Trip Itinerary includes top golf destinations, from Cape Kidnappers to Queenstown:

• Day 1 – Arrive Auckland to Taupo
• Day 2 – Taupo & Golf at the Kinloch Club
• Day 3 – Hawkes Bay
• Day 4 – Hawkes Bay & Golf at Cape Kidnappers
• Day 5 – Queenstown
• Day 6 – Queenstown & Golf at The Hills Golf Club
• Day 7 – Queenstown & Golf at Jack’s Point or Millbrook Resort
• Day 8 – Depart Queenstown

For your New Zealand golf trip, choose to rent a car or travel with a private guide. Stay at all-inclusive luxury golf retreats or 5-star hotels.

Read on for a full description of the 7 Day New Zealand Golf Trip Itinerary.

7 Day New Zealand Golf Trip Itinerary

Day 1 auckland – taupo, the lodge at kinloch.

Drive Auckland to Taupo – 3.5 hours

Arrive in Auckland the gateway to New Zealand, pick up your rental car and head to your first golf destination, Taupo. The Lodge at Kinloch , located in Taupo, is set within the tranquil 254ha grounds of the Kinloch Club Golf Course. This modern uber-luxury lodge has been designed to emulate a version of the Kinloch region namesake Scottish Castle, but with a truly modern 21st century design concept. The main lodge, with local schist stone exteriors features dramatic framed vistas of the sensational views of the golf course and the ever changing Lake Taupo.

Stay 2 nights at The Lodge at Kinloch, Taupo.

Accommodation: The Lodge at Kinloch

Day 2 Golf, The Kinloch Club

A Top 100 golf course, the Kinloch Club is a Championship inland links style Jack Nicklaus signature design. Measuring 6519 yards off the white tees, and 7363 yards off the Championship tees, Kinloch offers an exceptional golfing experience.

The design philosophy behind Kinloch was to enhance the natural environment – and allow the surroundings of the stunning Taupo region to shape each hole. But beware, it’s tough. The only flat lie you will have is on the tee box, so be prepared. Extensive bunkering guards the front of the greens and you’ll have to think carefully of every single hole shot.

There’s only one thing better than the satisfying feeling of holing out on the 18th at Kinloch, and that’s relaxing with friends in the superb luxurious Kinloch Clubhouse. The Kinloch Clubhouse features outstanding panoramic vistas all year round with comfortable indoor and outdoor seating to savour the views. With full gourmet catering and bar facilities available before, during and after your round of golf you’re sure to stay energised and refreshed.

Day 3 Hawkes Bay, The Farm Cape Kidnappers

Drive Taupo to Cape Kidnappers – 2.5 hours

Far out to the east of Hawke’s Bay wine country, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers Luxury Lodge sits atop rolling hills and rugged cliffs that give way to vast sea views and an ever-present horizon. Named as one of the world’s most extraordinary luxury destinations, set on a 6,000 acre sheep and cattle farm, this unique property not only offers an exquisite luxury lodge and spa, it also boasts one of the world’s top golf courses.

Stay 2 nights in Cape Kidnappers

Accommodation:  The Farm at Cape Kidnappers

Day 4 Golf, Cape Kidnappers Golf Course

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers boasts a par 71 championship golf course designed by Tom Doak. The golf course measures 7,119 yards (6,510 meters) and will challenge golfers of all skill levels. Completed in 2004, this spectacular New Zealand golf course has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf. Built on a ridge-and-valley landscape and with stunning sea views, Cape Kidnappers Golf Course plays high above the ocean atop dramatic cliffs.

With cliff-edge fairways perched 140 metres above sea level and with surface that remains firm and fast, this course offers holes unlike anything you will find elsewhere in the world. The golf complex includes a world-class practice range, putting and chipping greens, a well-stocked golf shop, club house and premium ladies’ and mens’ rental clubs are available.

Day 5 Queenstown

Flight transfer Napier to Queenstown

Today your journey takes you to Queenstown, the ultimate luxury destination on New Zealand’s South Island. From world-class luxury lodges to indulgent spa experiences and an array of world renowned golf courses, Queenstown is a delight. Your accommodation in Queenstown is at Matakauri Lodge , spectacularly situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Voted one of the top five lodges in New Zealand and Australia, Matakauri is the ultimate sanctuary. Option to stay at any property of your choice.

For travelling partners not golf inclined, the next few days can be spent at your leisure, either relaxing at Matakauri Lodge and perhaps indulging in the spa treatments on offer, or adding an activity from the wide array on offer in Queenstown. Options range from guided nature walks and private cruises on Lake Wakatipu to more adrenaline-fuelled activities such as jet-boating and skydiving.

Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.

Accommodation: Matakauri Lodge

Day 6 Golf, The Hills Golf Club

The Hills is New Zealand’s most exclusive golf club. Members and guests enjoy an unparalleled level of service in a unique environment that incorporates a championship golf course with full practice facilities and the finest clubhouse hospitality.

Kiwi entrepreneur Sir Michael Hill’s private golf course in Arrowtown, was designed by Darby Partners and opened in 2007 to host The New Zealand Open. Set over 500 acres of land across a glacial valley, the layout highlights the dramatic elevation changes and rocky schist outcrops that are a feature of the area. The 6596 meter par 72 championship course features numerous elevated tees offering players an excellent view of the challenge ahead and 360 degree views of spectacular snow capped mountain scenery. There are no parallel fairways and no two holes alike. While primarily a private club, The Hills accepts a limited number of visitor bookings daily.

Day 7 Jack’s Point Golf Course / Millbrook Golf Course

Jack’s point golf course.

With a backdrop of 2300 vertical metres of The Remarkables mountain range and an armchair view of outstanding lake panoramas, Jack’s Point Golf Course is one of the most visually spectacular courses in the world. As an 18 hole par 72 championship course it offers golfers of any calibre a challenging and unforgettable experience. Jacks Point Golf Course is designed with minimal excavation, the 6388 metre (7088 yard) course is built on the most spectacular of Jack’s Point terrain, weaving through tussocks grasslands, steep bluffs and swathes of native bush to the edge of Lake Wakatipu. 

Millbrook Golf Course

Set in a natural alpine amphitheatre against the backdrop of The Remarkables Mountain Range, this 27 hole golf course exploits the dramatic terrain and delivers world-class golf. This award winning golf course has also been voted ‘Best Golf Hotel’ at the World Golf Awards and named ‘Oceania’s Best Golf Hotel’ in New Zealand (option to stay at Millbrook Resort Hotel).

The course was originally designed by renowned professional and master golfer Sir Bob Charles, then renovated by Greg Turner in October 2010 with the addition of The Coronet Nine. Millbrook is a breathtaking environment to tee off at and offers three fabulous nine hole courses, each named after local prominent Queenstown landmarks- The Remarkables, The Arrow and The Coronet Nine.

Day 8 Depart Queenstown

As your unforgettable New Zealand golf vacation draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown.

Play the Best Golf Courses in the Country with a New Zealand Golf Trip

New Zealand is home to many world-renowned golf courses. These include:

• Kauri Cliffs
• Cape Kidnappers
• Jack’s Point

New Zealand Luxury Escapes will help craft an unforgettable golf holiday with luxury accommodation, superb rounds of golf, and carefully planned details. Take advantage of our local knowledge as you plan your New Zealand golf trip.

We also offer a 10 Day New Zealand Golf Itinerary and a 14 Day New Zealand Golf Itinerary .

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The Charm of New Zealand

Travel & golf.

Custom NZ Travel & Golf for Inspired Travelers

We have specialized in luxury travel to New Zealand since 1990. Trust the Experts.

Make your NZ golf vacation a truly memorable experience.

Many golfing holidays incorporate more than simply rounds at top courses. We believe your travel to New Zealand, and time within the country, should be filled with great memories and experiences to be shared for years to come.

As the New Zealand travel experts our aim is to deliver authentic Kiwi experiences so you understand the charm and beauty of this special country. For over 30 years our team has selected accommodations, partners, and guides to provide a better experience.

We provide a high level of personal service, professionalism and attention to detail. Each trip is customized. Your itinerary is truly yours- made to your preferences and tailored to your interests... outside of great golf of course!

We turn good holidays into great ones by providing a well-planned and well-executed travel experience. If we can help save costs through our wholesale contracts, maximize the investment of your time and provide memories to be shared between friends and loved ones then we have succeeded.

Contact us today. We would love the opportunity to prove we know New Zealand better than any other.

Meet Our Team

The Best of NZ Golf team is a 100% professional travel agency comprised of Kiwis, Fijians and even a few Americans! Our combined 100+ years of experience creating customized itineraries to New Zealand removes speculation out of planning and helps you make the right travel decisions from the outset.

Contact us and please let us know how we may serve you.

Custom Itineraries

Your time is valuable and your time in New Zealand should be used efficiently. We have worked with parties of all sizes: PGA professionals & club members, couples, families and friends. Trips are tailored to your needs.

Years of knowledge and direct relationships throughout New Zealand allow us to provide better options and pricing for travel, accommodations, and activities. We know New Zealand.

Beyond Golf

New Zealand affords the opportunity to experience something novel and authentic. Playing world-renowned courses aside, our aim is to produce for you the broader idea of an inclusive itinerary. Air, golf, cuisine, travel, wine, touring & accommodations.

Customer reviews

The Henley was incredible. What a find. Incredible grounds, the staff was waiting for us when we pulled up, great rooms, lovely breakfast. We could have stayed another day or two. Definitely the perfect place for us to recharge after the flight and a busy day... Everyone has been enjoying the trip.

—S Kucirek, CA

We have returned from our trip to New Zealand, which went very well. I want to thank you for your expert help in planning the trip according to our interests. We had a thoroughly enjoyable time and loved the beauty of the South Island.... many thank you's for your able assistance in tailoring the perfect trip for us.

—Karen F., Moraga, CA

Featured golf courses

Cape Kidnappers Golf Course

High atop a windswept plateau, this former farmland is now a championship style course and boutique resort. With the Pacific Ocean and famed gannet colony the 5,000-acre property allows guests to experience true Kiwi rugged and rural luxury.

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.

Titirangi Golf Club

A true point of pride for New Zealand golf this Alister MacKenzie designed gem remains a great course to play today

Royal Wellington Golf Club

A private club conveniently located just outside of the Wellington city-center, Royal Wellington is in rare air as the only New Zealand club to be granted Royal status by the British monarchy. And although a historic venue, this picturesque parkland course has undergone a recent 2-year redesign to now play at a modern lengths.

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Visit new zealand freely for the first time in 3 years.

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Planning a New Zealand golf holiday?

Golf vacations new zealand specialise in arranging customised self-drive holidays for individuals and small groups., we focus on your needs, providing flexibility and working with you to create a holiday that fulfils and hopefully exceeds your expectations., new zealand is a great golfing destination, having one of the highest number of golf courses per head of capita in the world, offering plenty of variety and incredible scenery.  with its temperate climate and friendly people, a golfing holiday in new zealand is something special..

We like to think we develop a rapport and understanding with clients which can lead to remaining in contact for many years.  To help you decide if we are the sort of business that you wish to use to assist with organising your New Zealand golf holiday, here is some background on us.

Golf Vacations New Zealand Ltd was established in 2009 and is owned and operated by Colin and Renee Wells.  For us, the business is as much about lifestyle as anything.  We love to travel, are passionate about New Zealand, addicted to golf and enjoy meeting people.  We limit the number of clients we take on each year; this ensures the high level of service we provide and also allows us to spend time with family and friends, enjoy golf and do plenty of travelling and research.  During recent times of restricted international travel we purchased a motorhome and spent time travelling to some of the more remote and lesser-known parts of New Zealand, which has  helped extend our knowledge.  Have a look at the Services We Offer and see if we are what you are looking for to make your New Zealand golfing holiday a reality.

Colin & Renee Wells

• Review Golf Vacations New Zealand Day Tours

Well, we made it home safely after a wonderful experience in your country. Thanks for organising the trip. It was absolutely amazing and we enjoyed every minute of it. Your expertise in arranging our itinerary was fantastic. Thanks again. We will certainly use your company again.

Thank you, Colin and Renee, for an experience that far surpassed all our expectations. The golf was exciting, the accommodations were superb and your hospitality was wonderful. Although we will be back, we look forward to having you visit us in Hawaii.

Colin and Renee’s organisation of our golf tour and all the accommodation was brilliant and very efficient. We also stayed four days at Okura River Lodge and you could not find better hosts than Colin and Renee.

Thanks for all your help. We plan to visit New Zealand again in 2015 or 2016 and combine it with a trip to Australia. We will definitely have you co-ordinate all of the logistics. We have also recommended Golf Vacations New Zealand to several of our friends at our club who are thinking of a holiday in New Zealand. Our pictures of the courses and accommodation really impressed them.

Just a short note to say many thanks for a most enjoyable two weeks of golf on your 2014 South Island tour. Our group had a great time and please let us know of any future trips. Hope this finds you both well and once again many thanks.

Many thanks for such a great holiday. We both really appreciate all your efforts to make the trip so enjoyable. The stay with you both at the beginning and the end at your lovely home [Okura River Lodge] was the icing on the cake. So many laughs and good memories.

Our trip to New Zealand was great and we enjoyed it very much. The organisation via emails and all the helpful information have been excellent. You did a great job and even managed to organise good weather. We have been very happy and will always recommend your company, excellent value for money. As soon as we plan to come back we will contact you.

Me and Flo want to thank you for the great vacation you organised for us in New Zealand. Locations were good, the golf was excellent and the tips you gave us on things to see and places to eat were priceless. Hope to see you again perhaps in New Zealand or if you make it to KL or Chicago at some time in the future.

We both greatly enjoyed our stay in NZ and much of this is due to the inputs and preparations made by yourselves. Once again many, many thanks from us both to you both.

Good to see you both again yesterday, and we can’t thank you enough for such a well organised golf holiday, everything went so smoothly, and especially great to have mobile phones and GPS. We found the folders amazing, so much detail, with all the maps, suggestions etc – way above anything we have experienced previously. Thank you also for the hat and towel.

Again many many thanks.

I want to again thank both of you for the fabulous golf vacation you provided Bill and I last month. The complete package of type and location golf courses selected, accommodations, food and overall attentiveness to our needs was wonderfully planned and executed. In addition the afternoon at Te Pohue and time at Wairunga provided a great opportunity to learn about New Zealand. You met and exceeded our expectations to a substantial degree. Plus you were both extremely pleasant and charming people with whom to spend 11 days. We very much enjoyed your company on and off the golf course.

If I can ever provide a recommendation, or support in some way your business development efforts, please don’t hesitate to ask. Also I hope my review in the “Trip Advisor” was appropriate.

We had a fabulous holiday in NZ, Nov. 2010. It was our good fortune that we found your website. It was so impressive that you answered us with a plan that really suited our needs. The itinerary you put together was perfect! From the minute we arrived you were in touch. You were both so professional and made our holiday so relaxing and fun. The transportation was so comfortable and you handled all the details from wineries to golfing, to dinners. You are delightful hosts. We will most definitely be back to do some more golf and tour with you.

I personally really enjoyed working with Golf Vacations – there was nothing too much to ask, you were prompt getting back to me & rather helpful with everything, and you were fantastic when I asked you for something above & beyond to assist my clients getting some information. Thank you!

Like all good tour operators, Renee and Colin are knowledgeable, helpful and they look after the details. But what sets them apart is their knowledge of golf, and perhaps more important is their understanding of the needs and expectations of golfers with their Type A, competitive and outgoing personalities.

For future individuals or large groups considering using your company as a service I strongly recommend that they do so. The Cadieux’s and ourselves were extremely impressed with how well organized you were, and how easy you made everything for us. The accommodations you recommended were great and your hospitality was second to none. You both went the extra mile hosting a wonderful dinner at your home.

We now consider you friends first, and a service provider as a bonus. We hope to come back to New Zealand and share time with you again. Thanks and good luck.

For anyone planning a golf vacation in New Zealand, regardless of group size or handicap, Colin and Renee of Golf Vacations New Zealand Ltd is your ideal choice. We called upon Golf Vacations New Zealand to plan our five day golf trip around the Auckland area for our group of eight. Working around our schedule, Colin and Renee planned every perfect detail from safe, modern transportation to a great selection of golf courses, dinners after golf and even a birthday cake for a member of the group.

How do you end a month long tour of New Zealand? You book your last four days with “Golf Vacations”.

Golf Vacations arranged accommodations at a superb B&B, organized golf games at two different and challenging courses, winery tours and lunches, visit to “Sheep World” and daily dining at local area restaurants. Our package included transportation to and from all the venues including transportation to the airport for our flights home. Golf Vacations eliminated all the stress out of our final four days.

Thanks “Golf Vacations” for your attention to detail. You made our stay memorable and we are looking forward to do this again in the future.

I appreciate that we had great time in New Zealand. It was lucky that I could see nice place by you. I hope your business goes well and hope we can be of assistance in the future too.

Email us @ | PH: 0064 274 653 888 | AUS FREE PH: 1300 528 165

Remarkable Golf Tours

Queenstown's premier golf specialists

Golf in Queenstown, New Zealand

With queenstown’s premier golf tour, transport & travel company..

Why Remarkable Golf Tours?

Remarkable Golf Tours offer a full range of golf travel services, transport solutions and golf packages for Queenstown and the North and South Island golfing hotspots of New Zealand. We operate a professional transport service , premium hire vehicles and travel planning with our local experts handling all the arrangements so you’re left free to relax and enjoy the ‘Remarkable’ travel experience.

Whether it’s golfing in Queenstown, the golf and sightseeing capital of New Zealand with signature courses like Jacks Point , Millbrook and The Hills , or the Bay of Islands with the stunning Kauri Cliffs . Perhaps it’s Taupo with the fabulous Kinloch Club, Wairakei and Cape Kidnappers near Napier or Christchurch with Terrace Downs, Clearwater Resort and Pegasus. Remarkable Golf Tours are the specialist golf company to make your trip easy to arrange and to ensure a memorable experience.

• Transport options for groups of all sizes
• A huge range of accommodation options across NZ, from apartments, hotels, boutique lodges and private holiday homes
• Professional, prompt service from our on-call tour planning team
• Tour packages to suit any budget for all size groups

Top Golf Packages

Golfing in Queenstown

Golf queenstown.

Queenstown offers some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking golf with courses that cater to any level of player. Three of our local courses are widely regarded NZ Top 10’s with Jack’s Point, The Hills and Millbrook voted #1,2 and 3 courses in the South Island of NZ. Queenstown is also much more than just a world class golf destination. Trip Advisor rated Queenstown #1 Outdoor and Adventure Destination, #1 Travellers’ Choice Destination, and #3 Food and Wine Destination in the South Pacific, along with several related awards. Find more info and our favourite local attractions by clicking here .

QUEENSTOWN’S GOLF COURSES

From the secluded fairways of the South Island’s premier resort course at Millbrook Resort to the rugged beauty of the Jacks Point Golf Course under the Remarkables mountains, Queenstown has become a golfers dream destination. A recent survey rated three of Queenstowns’ courses, Jacks Point, Millbrook Resort and The Hills in the top 10 in New Zealand. Add to these the Queenstown Golf Club , considered one of the most scenic courses in the world and Arrowtown Golf Club, bursting with history and character and you’ll discover there are few destinations that boast as many spectacular courses as Queenstown.

Queenstown Golf Courses

Client Reviews

Testimonials.

15 of us recently visited Queenstown for 6 days including 4 days of golf John and Tim were fantastic, all arrangements went smoothly and their recommendations re Accomodation (Glebe Apartments) and restaurants was first class. They were only too happy to help and their care and attention made it a worry free tour.

Michael - Royal Melbourne GC

Thank you to Tim, John & Rae from Remarkable Golf Tours. You were all friendly, professional and helpful and nothing was too much trouble. I would highly recommend your services to all my friends and would definitely utilise your services again. Thanks again!

Sue P - Sydney Girls Golf Tour, 2015

We have been going away as a group for 22 years and this was as good as it gets! Keep up the good work and we will see you again in a year or two!"

John Harvey - BAGWANA Golfers - Melbourne, Australia

Queenstown Golf Videos

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• New Zealand Golf Tours

See Tours Below

NZ Golf Courses

Well it's true we are blessed in New Zealand with stunning landscapes, a temperate climate and an abundance of golf enthusiasts. In fact, golf is the most popular sport played by men in New Zealand and 2nd most popular for women (behind netball). So it should be no surprise we are home to a range of world-class golf courses and our First Light Travel Golf Tours will take you there.

The Ultimate Private New Zealand Golf Tour

First Light Travel

The 'Ultimate New Zealand Privately Guided Golf Tour' caters to golfers and non-golfing alike. It is perfect for lovers of world-class golf courses set amongst magnificent landscapes. Off the fairways, you’ll enjoy the top highlights of the country at a relaxing pace.

Ultimate New Zealand Self Drive Golf Tour

The 'Ultimate New Zealand Self Drive Golf Tour' caters for golfers and non-golfing alike. It is perfect for lovers of world-class golf courses set amongst magnificent landscapes. Off the fairways you’ll enjoy the top highlights of the country at a relaxing pace.

Golfers Dream Self Drive Tour

Cross Kauri Cliffs, Cape Kidnappers and Jacks Point off your golf course bucket list, and discover many more. This fifteen day golf-filled luxury journey visits the North and South Island's premier destinations and attractions. There's ample time off the green to soak up New Zealand's epic scenery too, including a scenic flight and cruise to Milford Sound.

Golf Enthusiasts Self Drive Tour of NZ

This Self Drive Tour of New Zealand is a perfect tour for golf enthusiasts. The schedule is not too tough, with plenty of time to soak up our Antipodean paradise. Covering both Islands you visit the vineyards, sail in the Bay of Islands and cruise Milford Sound. You’ll experience unforgettable rounds amidst some of the grandest scenery around.

Ultimate South Island Self Drive Golf Tour

Enjoy South Island's very best alpine vistas, tranquil towns, and award-winning championship golf courses. From the spring-fed lakes of Clearwater, to the mountain backdrops of Jacks Point, each course is an experience in itself. With a full day in Queenstown, a flight to Milford Sound, and one of the top scenic drives in the country, this nine day tour truly has it all.

Queenstown Golf Experience

Enjoy Queenstown’s very best alpine vistas, tranquil lakes, and award-winning championship golf courses. From lakeside Jacks Point to the mountain backdrop of Millbrook, each course is an experience in itself. With a full day free in Queenstown, a flight to Milford Sound, and one of the top scenic drives in the country, this tour truly has it all.

Pricing terms

The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price

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Call us at 866.942.3464 to check availability.

Prices begin at $16,965 per person and vary depending on departure date and level of accommodation. Request a brochure .

A land of extraordinary contrasts and beauty, snowcapped mountains, rugged fjords, dense rainforests, lush farmlands and beautiful vineyards can all be found in this southern wonderland. For those in search of great golf, New Zealand is a land of emerging masterpieces.

NEW ZEALAND HIGHLIGHTS:

• Queenstown, New Zealand
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Make New Zealand Your Next Golfing Holiday Destination

Bringing together the best of new zealand golf and tourism.

New Zealand Golf and Travel specialise in tailoring packages and tours for groups of all sizes that bring together the very best golf and tourism experiences right across the country – Amazing golf, beautiful food and wine, stunning scenery, outdoor adventure and warm local hospitality.

New Zealand is home to some of the most picturesque golf courses in the world and no matter what you need, our dedicated and experienced team will work with you to ensure every base is covered so your members have the trip of a lifetime.

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Bay of Islands

Christchurch, best times to visit new zealand, how to get there, transportation.

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

When people learn I’m from New Zealand , I often hear that it’s at the top of their bucket list — or, if they’ve been, that it’s their favorite country in the world.  I may be biased, but I am not surprised. The stunning natural beauty, thriving culinary scene, and unique outdoor activities would charm even the most seasoned traveler.

Everywhere you look, there’s a picture-perfect backdrop filled with greenery and crystal-clear waters. And although it has a lot of untouched land, it boasts the same highlights you would find in any major global city, with art galleries, shopping districts, nightlife, and luxury hotels. Plus, it’s politically stable and very safe, which are increasingly appealing traits.

Geographically, the country is divided into two islands with distinct characteristics: the North Island is full of beaches and is home to the main cities, and the South Island is an alpine wonderland defined by majestic mountain landscapes, rugged coasts, and world-class ski slopes. There has been a lot of development over the past few years, and travelers have more places to eat, stay, and play than ever before.  Below, see Travel + Leisure ’s essential guide to making the most of this magical South Pacific destination, according to a local.

Angelina Pilarinos/Travel + Leisure

North Island

The North Island is lined with beautiful beaches and islands surrounding the narrow coasts. It’s also where the capital, Wellington, is located, along with the country’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, Auckland , which is an essential destination on any New Zealand itinerary (and the gateway for most international flights). As Annie Dundas, the Director Destination at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, notes, Auckland is “an urban oasis — the perfect fusion of a busy, modern city that looks out to mesmerizing landscapes and islands — all within easy reach and laden with wineries and leisurely places for long lunches.” It is worth spending at least four days in Auckland, but the North Island has many unique areas to explore, and below, we’ve charted the key destinations to prioritize.

Things to Do

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is a popular day trip for locals and is accessible by boat, ferry, or helicopter from downtown Auckland. It’s filled with boutique wineries, restaurants, and beautiful beaches and is especially popular in the summer months when music festivals and jazz concerts are hosted in sprawling vineyards. There’s also a contemporary art sculpture trail, Sculpture on the Gulf , hosted each summer, enticing many Aucklanders across the harbor for a cultured day out. Pop over for the day, tour the wineries, get a scoop of ice cream at Island Gelato Company , and wander around the artisan boutiques. If you’d like to spend the night, there are high-end rentals available on Waiheke Unlimited and Vrbo , or for a hotel, go for Delamore Lodge .

Visit the Auckland Museum and the Auckland Art Gallery

For a close-up view of New Zealand’s culture and history, visit the stately Auckland Museum , where you’ll find a collection of national artifacts along with a rotation of exhibitions. It’s set at the top of the city’s main park and is within walking distance of Auckland CBD, where the Auckland Art Gallery is located. Here, you’ll find some of the country’s most valuable artworks, along with various international collections. Both are worthwhile attractions that can be ticked off in half a day.

Explore Commercial Bay and Britomart

Downtown Auckland has been transformed over the past decade and has become the city’s most vibrant shopping and dining hub. It’s bustling from day to night and is especially packed on Friday nights for after-work drinks and dinner. You can find some of the city’s best restaurants and cocktail bars within a small vicinity, and it’s a fashion mecca with storefronts from major brands and local fashion designers (be sure to check out Karen Walker , Kate Sylvester , and Zambesi ).

Courtesy of Park Hyatt Auckland

Park Hyatt Auckland

Since opening in 2020, the Park Hyatt has become the crème de la crème of the Auckland hotel scene. It has a prime location, excellent views, amenities, restaurants, and spacious rooms with freestanding bathtubs and terraces overlooking the Viaduct Harbor — ideal for room service with some atmosphere. It’s within walking distance of the best bars, restaurants, and shops, but it feels like a serene enclave where you can manage to get a good night’s sleep, despite being right by the action.

The Hotel Britomart

As the name suggests, this chic hotel is located right in the heart of Britomart, surrounded by some of Auckland’s best shopping and dining. Rooms are sleek and modern yet very small, so they are suitable for solo travelers and couples. If you’re seeking something more spacious, the suites are some of the finest in the city (with price tags to match). And the restaurant, Kingi, is also excellent. 

Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbor

Located between the Viaduct and Wynyard Quarter, the Sofitel has long been a go-to for celebrities and diplomats visiting New Zealand. It boasts the high standards that you would expect from the French hotel brand, with a fine-dining restaurant, elegant interiors, and an impressive spa and wellness center. 

Restaurants

For a fun atmosphere and Italian-inspired fare, head to Bivacco in the Viaduct. The menu has sharable classics like pizza, antipasto, pasta, and oysters, and on any given day, you’ll find yourself surrounded by well-heeled locals socializing over bottles of rosé and cocktails. 

Soul is a restaurant that has stood the test of time, and for over 20 years, it has been a go-to venue for some of the city’s most stylish soirees. Like Bivacco, it’s also a lively spot in the heart of the Viaduct, where people go for the food as well as the scene. After dinner, there’s a dance floor that attracts a mature crowd, and on the menus, you’ll find fresh seafood and bistro classics alongside an extensive wine and Champagne list.

While it’s not the newest or the sceniest place, Prego has been a solid option along Ponsonby Road for years and is just as popular with families as it is for birthday celebrations and dinners preceding big nights out at the bars along the strip. Go for the pizza or the chicken saltimbocca — everything on the menu is great as are the cocktails. And, it's always a reliable destination for a good atmosphere and delicious food.

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Known locally as Te Papa , the country’s largest museum is essential on any Wellington itinerary. It contains over 800,000 artworks and objects, and it has a rotation of exhibitions, including dinosaur skeletons and ancient artifacts that you would expect to find at the American Museum of Natural History. It’s an interesting experience for children and adults alike.

Ride the Wellington Cable Car

For panoramic views of the city, jump on the historic Wellington Cable Car , which boards in the heart of the Lambton Quay shopping district and travels up the hillside of Kelburn. Here you will find a scenic lookout, botanic gardens, and the Cable Car Museum . 

Wander Hannahs Laneway 

Also known as Leeds Street, Hannah’s Laneway is a foodie’s paradise, lined with street food vendors, contemporary art, and cool cafes. You can pick up a variety of distinctly "Kiwi" specialties, from black forest toast to pies and creamy hot chocolates. Just be sure to skip breakfast so you have room to sample everything.

QT Wellington

This centrally located hotel could be equated to the likes of The Standard and Edition Hotels, with quirky, ultramodern design and a lively food and beverage scene.  It’s right across from the Te Papa Museum in the center of town and is popular with both business and leisure travelers. There are 65 hotel rooms with either city or harbor views, and it also has 98 apartments. 

Wharekauhau Country Estate

Although it’s a 90-minute drive from Wellington, this luxury lodge is a popular stop on any Wellington itinerary. It’s set on a 5,000-acre estate overlooking the coast and has welcomed royals and many international diplomats visiting the capital. Everything is designed so that you don’t need to leave: food is included and sourced from the farm, it has a spa and fitness center, and a variety of outdoor activities from ATV quad biking to tennis. 

You will need to book a month in advance to secure a table at this intimate prix-fixe restaurant. The menu is seasonal, and it changes every day, so there’s always something new. A typical night might feature lamb manti, panfried snapper, and crisp meringue — delicious renditions of local New Zealand cuisine.

Located on the nightlife-centric Cuba Street, Loretta is a place to enjoy crowd-pleasing classics in a fun environment.  It’s renowned for its sourdough pizzas and vanilla cheesecakes and is a great place to go with friends before a night out or for brunch on a Sunday. 

Ortega Fish Shack

This nautical-themed restaurant serves some of the best seafood around, from Yellowtail Kingfish ceviche to smoked Moki rillettes and green-lipped mussels. It’s a charming and eclectic place that perfectly represents Wellington's hip, creative vibe. 

Sculptureum

Sculptureum is a lovely and cultured place to spend an afternoon, with six art galleries, three sculpture gardens, a vineyard, and a restaurant appropriately named Rothko. Whether you’re staying in the area or doing a day trip up from Auckland, it’s an essential for contemporary art lovers and is especially great to visit in the summer months.

Matakana Village Farmers Market

Every weekend, Matakana Village comes alive with rustic markets featuring a variety of artisan food stands and fresh local produce. You’ll find delicious local cheese, honey, baked goods, chocolate, and award-winning flat whites.  It’s set up right next to the boutiques in the charming village, where you’ll find everything from quaint homeware stores to shoe shops, and there’s also a cinema and a restaurant within the main village complex.

Omaha Beach

The Rodney District has some of the most stunning beaches on the North Island, and one of the most popular among them is Omaha — a white sand beach that attracts swimmers, surfers, and families setting up for the day. It’s only a 10-minute drive from Matakana Village, and it has ample parking, a café, a boutique with swim essentials, and a playground. For bigger waves, surfers head to Tawharanui Beach , which is also located within the Matakana region. 

Takatu Lodge

This gorgeous boutique lodge is located on a serene hilltop overlooking the Hauraki Gulf. It has only four suites with luxurious furnishings, underfloor heating, and views overlooking the gardens and the vineyards. Meals are provided in the dining spaces and tailored to guests’ preferences. Also, picnics are on offer for those wanting to set up at the nearby beaches for the day. 

Courtesy of Brick Bay

Brick Bay is a similar concept to Sculptureum, with a restaurant, wine tastings, and a contemporary sculpture trail positioned around a pond and throughout a native bush. It’s been around for a long time and is very popular with both locals and Aucklanders, so it’s worth booking in advance, even if it’s just to sample their wine varietals over a cheese platter after the lunchtime rush. 

Cruise the Islands

The Bay of Islands has 144 subtropical islands, and there are many ways to explore them, be it by chartering a yacht, going on a scheduled group boat tour, hiring a kayak, or embarking on a snorkeling expedition. You can see an abundance of enchanting sea life, too, including dolphins, penguins, and whales. 

Visit the Waitangi Treaty grounds

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds is New Zealand’s most important historic site. It is where the country’s founding document was signed in 1840. Today, it contains two museums with interactive displays, guided tours to learn about the country’s history, and traditional Maori cultural performances that are staged in the meeting house. 

Kauri Cliffs

Kauri Cliffs was recently added to the Rosewood portfolio, which is a testament to its high standards. It’s one of New Zealand’s most iconic luxury lodges, with a golf course that is ranked 37th on Golf Digest ’s Top 100 Greatest Golf Courses in the World, an excellent restaurant, and a fabulous spa nestled into a tranquil forest full of native birdlife. 

Eagle’s Nest

Positioned on a private 75-acre peninsula overlooking the Bay of Islands, Eagle’s Nest is one of New Zealand’s most luxurious boutique retreats. It is an intimate enclave, with only five villas that are beautifully designed. One thing to note is that there is no restaurant, however breakfast provisions are provided and there are on-call chefs available for private dining. 

Duke of Marlborough

The Duke of Marlborough is New Zealand’s first pub, and since opening in 1827 (before the Treaty of Waitangi was signed nearby), it has undergone various reincarnations. Visit today, and you’ll find a refined version of a classic pub with décor that feels fresh while honoring its history. Menus feature locally sourced, seasonal fare with popular items like paua risotto, clam fritters, pork belly, and of course, a solid burger.  

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

South Island

The South Island is renowned for its spectacular natural scenery from the golden beaches of the Abel Tasman to the fiords and mountains in the Southern Alps. The vibe is generally more casual, and it’s where many of the country’s best adventure activities can be experienced. In Wanaka and Queenstown , you’ll find pristine ski slopes, dramatic mountain landscapes, and an array of sprawling wineries. It’s also home to many of New Zealand’s Great Walks and multi-day hikes. There are many beautiful places to explore, and as Sarah Handley, Tourism New Zealand's general manager for the Americas and Europe, notes, “New Zealand's connection to the U.S. has never been stronger, and Americans can now fly non-stop to Christchurch, in the South Island, with United's direct service from SFO.”

Americans can now fly non-stop to Christchurch, on New Zealand's South Island, with United Airlines' direct service from San Francisco (SFO) starting Dec. 8.

Over the Top Helicopter Tour

For a true bucket list experience, take a helicopter ride and tour through the Southern Alps and the Milford Sound.  It’s the most magical way to see everything and experience areas that are usually inaccessible, like the secluded Madagascar Beach and snow-capped, sky-high peaks. The "eurocopters" are state-of-the-art, with maximum visibility from any vantage point.  They can be booked privately or as part of scheduled group tours. 

JensenChua/Getty Images

TSS Earnslaw Cruise

Renowned as "the Lady of the Lake," the Earnslaw is a 110-year-old steamboat that tours Lake Wakatipu from Queenstown down to Glenorchy. It’s one of the best ways to observe the natural grandeur of the Remarkables and Cecil Peak and is a particularly popular activity for families. The cruise itself takes 90 minutes, but there are various experiences that can be added on arrival at Walter Peak High Country Farm, including horse treks, cycling, or barbecues. 

Arrowtown is a historic gold-mining town that looks like a village out of a fairy tale. Everything has been lovingly preserved, and it is lined with quaint artisan boutiques, galleries, cafes, and restaurants. It’s only a 20-minute drive from Queenstown, and on the way, you could stop at Millbrook Resort for a round of golf or a spa session (just outside of the main village). Be sure to stop at The Remarkable Sweet Shop for the crème brulee fudge.  

Eichardt’s Private Hotel

Eichardt’s is an iconic Queenstown establishment and one of the most beloved boutique hotels in the country. It has an exceptional cocktail bar, restaurant, and spa, along with a $20,000-per-night penthouse located above the Louis Vuitton boutique next door. The location could not be better, positioned right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in the center of the action. Inside the rooms, the interiors are ultra-luxurious and suited to the alpine theme of the town — think crackling fireplaces, marble bathrooms with underfloor heating, and plush beds with fur throws. 

Matakauri Lodge

Matakauri Lodge is another property that was recently added to Rosewood’s portfolio (along with Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers in Hawkes Bay) and is a key destination on New Zealand’s luxury circuit, hosting the British royal family and many celebrities over the years. The intimate lakeside retreat has only 13 spacious accommodations, and it boasts stunning views of the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu. Cocktail hour is a social affair, and the food and wine offerings are world-class.

The Carlin is new, but it’s already garnered international acclaim, winning Best New Hotel at the Boutique Hotel Awards in 2022. It’s a place that would have the "Palace" distinction if it were in France, with ultra-luxe amenities that surpass the typical five-star standard. Guests have access to private jets and Michelin-star dining, and it is home to the largest penthouse in the Southern Hemisphere.

Located just a 15-minute drive from the city center, Amisfield is the most popular winery and restaurant in the region and is an essential daytime excursion. Wine tastings are available, and there are excellent Pinot Noirs produced on site. But to make the most of it, do an al fresco lunch in the beautifully manicured courtyard and take in the views of the postcard-worthy mountains.

Botswana Butchery

This lively lakefront bistro is one to book in advance, particularly if you’re visiting on a weekend. It has a charming atmosphere and some of the best representations of hearty New Zealand cuisine sourced from the surrounding farms and waters. It also has an excellent wine list with varietals from vineyards in the area.

You will need to time your visit to Fergburger well, as the lines can often exceed an hour in the evenings, but it has the best burgers in Queenstown (and anywhere, really) and is worth factoring in. There is a long menu of options to suit everyone including vegetarian options, beef, lamb, pork, fish, chicken, and also breakfast burgers. The same operators also opened Fergbaker next door, where you can pick up a classic meat pie — both delicious options, especially on a cold and snowy day.

Blanket Bay

Glenorchy is very remote, and what to do, where to stay, and where to dine all fall under the same category if you want to do it well. The place to go? Blanket Bay, where apocalypse-weary billionaires are known to escape. It is one of the country’s finest luxury lodges and is the best way to experience all the area has to offer, with an excellent restaurant, bar, spa, wellness center, and a variety of outdoor activities, from horse riding to heliskiing and jet boating. Accommodations are split between rooms in the main house and luxuriously decorated standalone villas.

Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve

Located in the Mt. Cook National Park, the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve has some of the clearest and darkest skies for star-spotting. It was the first Dark Sky Reserve to be established in New Zealand and is a magical way to experience the country’s untouched natural beauty by night. 

Explore the City’s Art Galleries

Christchurch has a thriving art scene and many galleries in the central city that are worth checking out. The main ones to prioritize are the Centre of Contemporary Art (CoCa) , Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu , and the Christchurch Art Centre . 

The Mayfair

Since opening in 2022, The Mayfair has been a welcome addition to the city’s luxury hotel scene. It’s a boutique hotel with minimal, contemporary décor, and sophisticated dining options, from high tea to an all-day café and cocktail bar and bistro. The central location makes it popular for both leisure and business travelers. 

The Observatory Hotel

The Observatory is a chic, design-forward boutique hotel that also opened in Christchurch in 2022.  It has rich interiors give the sense of eternal night, with vivid colors and ambient lighting. Rooms are very photogenic, and there are multiple dining options from the Drawing Room to all-day eatery Bunsen, and more casual options within the broader complex, from food trucks to sushi and dumplings.

Inati is a stylish fine-dining establishment helmed by the former head chef of Gordon Ramsay’s The Warrington. If there’s one place to book in advance in Christchurch, this is it. The menu is filled with sharing plates and divided into earth, land, and sea categories. Guests can park up at elegant stools overlooking the open kitchen and observe their food being artfully crafted. 

If you want to experience the great outdoors (which is the primary drawcard), the best time to visit is over the summer, between December and the beginning of April. During this period, temperatures are balmy, and you’re more likely to encounter solid blocks of sunshine. It’s also when the cities come alive, with many music festivals and cultural events, and is the best time to explore the beaches, wineries, and stunning walking tracks. That said, New Zealand is a great place to visit year-round, and it is also a world-renowned ski destination with ski resorts throughout the North and South Island. If you’re looking to ski, the months to consider would be between June and October, when the fields are open. 

Fiona Goodall/Getty Images

The best way to get to New Zealand is to fly into Auckland Airport, which is the country’s primary gateway. Air New Zealand has multiple routes available, including a direct flight from New York City, which takes 17 hours but is surprisingly manageable, given it flies overnight (and the airline is renowned for its excellent cuisine and high standard overall). United Airlines also has a direct flight from San Francisco's SFO, and Qantas also has a route from New York to Auckland. 

Once you arrive at the airport, there are taxis and rideshare services available, including Uber, but given everything is quite spread out, it is definitely worth renting a car. That will allow you to easily explore all of the different areas (some of which don’t have regular public transport options available). Driving is also a great way to visit some of the more remote beaches and destinations off the beaten path. If you’re planning on staying in the city centers, there are buses available, trains (albeit with limited routes), and ferries. 

New Zealand Travel Guide

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What makes the perfect golf trip? Book early, keep the peace and follow these tips

WHEELING, W.Va. — It’s Saturday night and my feet are sore from walking two wet golf courses for 27 holes. There are 11 of us sitting around a warm living room nursing various injuries.

“How you doin’, Suds?” a friend says, invoking my nickname (don’t ask).

My back’s also a little tight, but my pride’s hurting even more because I’ve lost most of the various bets and matches on this day.

“Finally! I won some money!” cries out a guy who goes by Gerbil (really don’t ask).

It’s the first time I’ve sat down and rested since 7 a.m. and I’m exhausted.

Oh, and one more thing. I’m having the time of my life because I’m experiencing the five sweetest words any golfer can utter: I’m on a golf trip.

I’ve been on several golf trips over the past two decades and I’ve enjoyed some more than others, so here are some tips I’ve picked up along the way for planning the best trip possible.

STAYING CLOSE? 6 Michigan golf courses ranked among America's top 25 publics for best conditions

Who's in charge?

Every trip has to have one person in charge who deals with all the planning and details. Respect this person because they put in untold amounts of effort behind the scenes dealing with logistics, money, travel plans, gripes and resort staff. You may not always agree with this person’s decisions, but unless you want the job, don’t complain or criticize their choices.

In our group, our leader goes by Glitter and he takes care of everything. He makes the reservations, he collects the money, he keeps track of scores and he runs the post-round meetings to tell us who won the daily bets, though individuals pay each other.

A friend in the group who goes by E.T. (always phoning home) organizes a separate trip, has each golfer pay the resort individually and has everyone use the Golf Genius app so that he doesn’t have to track the scores and everyone can see what’s happening in real time. But he collects the betting money and pays out players without much fanfare.

Deciding when and where your group is going is key to having the most options available, especially at more popular destinations. E.T. books his annual trip six-to-eight months in advance. His group travels to a different destination every year, so it’s about as early as he can plan it.

The group I joined for this year’s outing books two years in advance because we go to the same place. Currently, it’s Oglebay Resort in Wheeling. Glitter used to book a year out but since it’s gotten busier, he has found it’s better to book way earlier in order to have the best options. This year’s accommodations were the best yet: a two-story cottage with three bathrooms that comfortably slept 11 people, had two large congregating areas, a covered patio, a fireplace and a grill.

Where to stay

There are a lot of options, ranging from hotel rooms to condos to large cottages and cabins to full-on mansions. I’ve experienced most of these options, but I think staying under one roof, if possible, makes the most sense. It keeps the group cohesive and encourages more socializing. When we’ve split up into adjoining two-bedroom condos, people tend to hunker down in their condos and someone’s always asking something like, “Hey, has anyone seen, Suds?”

But be sure to find a place that lets people get away for a quick nap or some quiet time. It’s a great option to have two or three larger gathering areas. My group had men who ranged in age from their late 30s to late 70s. With televisions in the congregating spaces on both floors, some preferred to hang out and watch golf downstairs while others preferred the NBA or NHL playoffs upstairs.

You can always find a nearby hotel, but I prefer a lodging option on the same property as the courses.

The right package

The world is your oyster when it comes to package choices. It just depends on what your group prefers. My group has always picked a package with a buffet breakfast (who wants to scrounge for food with an 8 a.m. tee time?).

We used to have dinner at the hotel, but having to get dressed for dinner, organizing 12, 16 or 20 people and waiting to get served when the kitchen is running behind on a Friday or Saturday got tiresome. Now we bring food and rotate cooking and cleanup duties. But I do miss hanging around the hotel bar on karaoke night. I do a killer “Ring of Fire.”

If you don’t want the hassle of cooking or cleaning, there’s always a food package you can tailor to your preference. And if you need post-golf entertainment options, having a casino nearby is always a popular choice. In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a good example is Island Resort and Casino , which offers a package that includes a round at Greywalls , a nearby acclaimed course.

The courses

I had stopped going on my trip for a while because I was unhappy with the two courses we were playing. They were too hard for many of our golfers and the resort wasn’t maintaining them properly, allowing tree branches to hang over fairways.

Our new location offers three 18-hole courses, with two built by Arnold Palmer and Robert Trent Jones Sr. They can be tough, but they’re fair, playable and keep the action moving with generous fairways. Be sure to account for the skill level of your players and especially the worst ones.

Keep the peace

Any large group will inherently contain a diverse set of viewpoints. Avoid offering too many strong opinions, especially about politics, the economy, race, religion, current events, Christmas, Santa or the Easter Bunny. You get the point. Stay away from any other potentially touchy subject.

Now, let’s be real. Alcohol tends to flow as freely as 4-foot gimmies during a golf trip, so it can be a challenge to maintain decorum. That’s why it’s important for the person in charge to make sure there aren’t any jerks on the trip. No one’s going to get along 100% of the time, but that doesn’t mean you can’t try to get along 100% of the time. And watch out for the televisions. Fox News and MSNBC should be off limits.

Everyone wins

There are countless games to play in golf, from a scramble to a shamble to bingo, bango, bongo, to just about anything you can come up with. There are two keys to these games. Make them equitable so that there isn’t a long-drive competition and keep the teams diverse so that everyone can contribute. You might hear some grousing from people who always want to play with their favorite partners, but that’s not what a golf trip is about.

The second key is to make sure everyone wins something, whether it’s a daily match, a greenie or fewest putts. We used to play two games in which everyone recorded their 18 lowest scores and their 18 highest scores. If you pay the top three spots for 18 highest scores, your worst golfers are sure to win something.

I can promise you this. Even if you’re not the worst in the group, seeing those who are finally win something will make the entire trip worth it.

Contact Carlos Monarrez: [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter  @cmonarrez .