What Are the Best Golf Courses to Play in New Zealand?

New Zealand is a world-class golf destination, with exceptional courses across both the North Island and South Island—often set against dramatic coastlines, alpine ranges, and native bush.

At Luxury Adventures, we design seamless golf journeys that combine the best courses with outstanding luxury accommodation, private transfers (including helicopter options), and memorable off-course activities for non-golfing partners.

Quick shortlist: standout New Zealand golf (North & South)

If you want a strong starting point, these are perennial favourites for visiting golfers:

• Te Arai Links (Northland) – New & World-Class
• Kauri Cliffs (Northland)
• Cape Kidnappers (Hawke’s Bay)
• Kinloch Club (Taupō)
• Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary (Taupō)
• Millbrook (Queenstown)
• Jack’s Point (Queenstown)
• The Hills (Queenstown region)

(Availability, seasonal conditions and tee times vary—enquire early for peak travel periods.)

Best golf courses in the North Island

The North Island pairs spectacular golf with some of New Zealand’s most iconic luxury lodges, geothermal landscapes, and relaxed coastal escapes.

Te Arai Links (Northland)

Rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about golf destinations globally, Te Arai Links offers two distinct world-class courses (North and South) set among pristine dunes and coastline.
Luxury base options: Stay on-site in the sophisticated Te Arai Links accommodation.

Kauri Cliffs (Northland)

A bucket-list coastal course with dramatic scenery and a premium golf experience.
Luxury base options: Stay on-site at The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs.

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary (Taupō)

A classic Taupō favourite set in beautiful natural surroundings—ideal to pair with a luxury lakeside stay.
Luxury base options: The much-revered Huka Lodge.

Kinloch Club (Taupō)

A standout for golfers seeking a premium, challenging round in the Taupō region.
Luxury base options: Stay on-site at The Kinloch Manor & Villas.

Cape Kidnappers (Hawke’s Bay)

Internationally acclaimed and unforgettable—an iconic New Zealand golf experience.
Luxury base options: Stay on-site at The Farm at Cape Kidnappers.

Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club (Kāpiti Coast)

A renowned links classic within easy reach of Wellington—ideal for adding a traditional round to a North Island itinerary.
Luxury base options: The spectacular Wharekauhau Country Estate.

Best golf courses in the South Island

The South Island is perfect for golfers who want unforgettable scenery—mountains, lakes and wide-open landscapes—paired with some of the country’s most luxurious lodges and hotels.

Clearwater Resort (Canterbury)

A strong Canterbury option, ideal for travellers routing through Christchurch and the central South Island.
Luxury base options: Stay at Otahuna Lodge.

Terrace Downs (Canterbury)

A popular choice for a golf-forward countryside escape with a relaxed, scenic setting.
Luxury base options: Stay on-site at Terrace Downs Resort.

Millbrook (Queenstown)

One of Queenstown’s most established golf destinations—great for golfers who want variety and convenience.
Luxury base options: Stay on-site at Millbrook Resort.

Jack’s Point (Queenstown)

A dramatic, design-forward course with a striking alpine backdrop—often a highlight round for visitors.
Luxury base options: The modern luxury of ROKI Collection, Queenstown.

The Hills (Queenstown region)

A premium Central Otago experience—excellent for golfers building a top-tier Queenstown/Arrowtown golf itinerary.
Luxury base options: Stay on-site at The Hills (The Lodge at The Hills).

Top Golf Courses in New Zealand (Quick Guide)

How to plan a New Zealand golf itinerary

How long do you need?

• 7–10 days: Best for one island (North or South) with 3–5 rounds.
• 10–14 days: Ideal for both islands with 5–8 rounds, plus downtime and non-golf experiences.

North Island vs South Island

• Choose the North Island for iconic lodge pairings, coastal Northland (Te Arai & Kauri Cliffs), Taupō golf, and Hawke’s Bay wine.
• Choose the South Island for Queenstown-based golf, alpine scenery, and a great mix of luxury stays.
• Combine both if you want the full “once-in-a-lifetime” New Zealand golf journey.

Travelling with non-golfers
We can build in equal “wow” moments off-course—spa time, private guides, wine experiences, scenic flights, and relaxed luxury lodge days—so everyone loves the trip.

Enquire: we’ll tailor your New Zealand golf journey

Tell us a little about your ideal golf trip and we’ll design the best-fit itinerary with tee times and luxury stays arranged.

When you enquire, let us know:

• Travel dates (or preferred month)
• Number of players and approximate handicap range
• Preferred number of rounds and must-play courses
• Whether you’d like private transfers / helicopter options
• Any non-golf priorities (wine, scenery, spa, adventure, relaxation)

Contact Luxury Adventures to begin planning.