Golf in New Zealand: Kauri Cliffs

When golfers talk about the best golf courses in New Zealand, Kauri Cliffs always makes the shortlist. Set high above the Pacific Ocean in the Bay of Islands, the Kauri Cliffs New Zealand golf course is renowned not only for its coastal scenery but also for the precision and care that goes into its presentation.

Recently, our group CEO, Anton, a golf enthusiast, played an 18-hole round here, offering first-hand insight into what makes Kauri Cliffs a standout experience for anyone serious about playing golf in New Zealand.

First Impressions

Anton teed off on 9th August, right in the middle of winter. Instead of a packed tee sheet, he found the course quiet and unhurried, a rare luxury for such a high-profile venue. With only a few groups on the course, it felt more like a private round than a bucket-list pilgrimage.

The welcome set the tone: Staff were friendly without being overbearing, and Fraser Wong, Director of Operations, personally ensured everything ran smoothly. That level of service left a lasting impression and gave the round a sense of occasion from the start.

Practice & Preparation

Before heading to the first tee, Anton made full use of the practice facilities. His verdict: “next level.” Perfectly maintained and generously laid out, they provided everything a golfer could need, and with practice balls included in the green fee, there was no sense of being rushed. Even here, the coastal views served as a reminder that this wasn’t a standard warm-up but part of the wider experience of playing Kauri Cliffs.

On the Course

Kauri Cliffs’ layout blends challenge with drama. Ocean views dominate, with the coastline framing many of the holes in a way few courses worldwide can match.

Three elements stood out:

• 7th Hole (Par 3): This hole is the signature postcard shot, a carry over a ravine with the Pacific beyond. It’s as intimidating as it is beautiful, and easily one of the most iconic holes in New Zealand golf.
• 16th Hole (Par 4): Demanding, scenic, and rewarding for those who commit to the shot.
• Attention to Detail: From the fairways to the unique tee markers, the course presentation was faultless.

Anton’s takeaway? The course not only lived up to its reputation but exceeded it, offering a balance of playability and spectacle.

Why Kauri Cliffs Stands Out

While Anton had heard mixed reviews prior to visiting, his experience confirmed that Kauri Cliffs earns its place among the world’s elite. Its remote location adds to the sense of exclusivity, while the design and conditioning rival the very best. For golfers traveling to New Zealand, this is more than just another stop, it’s a course that defines the standard.

Practical Notes for Golfers

• Winter play is underrated: The course is quieter, making for an unhurried round.
• Remote but worth the journey: The discreet entrance belies the world-class golf beyond.
• Helicopter transfers available: A fitting way to arrive for those looking to elevate the experience.
• Carts advised: The walk between holes can be long, and a cart helps save energy for the shots that matter.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on his round, Anton summed it up perfectly:

“Kauri Cliffs isn’t just a place to play golf. It’s about the location, the service, and the feeling of escape that comes with playing here.”

For golfers planning a trip to New Zealand, Kauri Cliffs is more than a box to tick, it’s a course that will stay with you long after you’ve putted out on 18.

Featured in:

New Zealand Luxury Golf Retreat

Discover the ultimate golfing escape in New Zealand, where world-class courses and luxury accommodations await. From the renowned Kinloch Manor and Rosewood Kauri Cliffs on the North Island to iconic South Island courses like Jack's Point and Millbrook, each stop promises exceptional golf and breathtaking views. Travel effortlessly by helicopter between stunning lodges and courses, all while immersing yourself in unparalleled comfort and the natural beauty of New Zealand.

North Island Fairway Escape

The ultimate blend of luxury and your passion for the game. Stay in world-class lodges, play on legendary golf courses, and travel in style with breathtaking helicopter transfers. This is more than a holiday, it’s an unforgettable journey. Indulge in exceptional stays at Rosewood Kauri Cliffs, Kinloch Manor, and Rosewood Cape Kidnappers, complemented by exquisite fine dining and impeccable service.