Kauri Cliffs – Golf, Luxury & The Best Views In New Zealand
I’m sure there have been times when you’ve found yourself researching your next possible golf trip, scrolling through all the potential options. If you’d asked me to picture my dream golf getaway, I probably wouldn’t have imagined a remote corner of New Zealand surrounded by sheep and cliffs, with the Pacific Ocean as my gallery. But that’s exactly what Kauri Cliffs delivers, and then some. This isn’t just a golf course; it’s a full-blown adventure, blending luxury accommodation, fine dining, and phenomenal scenery in equal measure.
The Arrival: A World Away
Getting to Kauri Cliffs is an easy 50-minute commercial flight from Auckland lands you in Kerikeri, right in the heart of the stunning Bay of Islands. If you’re considering private options, you can charter a jet to the same airport or even take a helicopter straight to the Rosewood Kauri Cliffs Lodge. The drive from Kerikeri to the property winds through farmland, giving you a glimpse of rural New Zealand in its purest form: lush green countryside that looks much the same as it did 50 years ago. As you pass through the gates, the road in is classic New Zealand, sheep grazing, rolling hills, and the occasional flash of ocean. By the time you pull up to the lodge, you already feel a million miles from anywhere (in the best way!).
The lodge itself is elegant and grand, think country estate meets coastal retreat. There’s a genuine warmth to the place, and the staff are ready for your arrival. They greet you by name and make the whole check-in process effortless. Your bags are whisked away to your room, and you’re offered a refreshment. “Shall we book you in for dinner? Is there anything you need?” Instantly, the stress of daily life melts away.
The Practice Area: Setting the Stage
Before teeing off, I made a beeline for the practice facilities. The range at Kauri Cliffs sits high above the coastline, so every shot arcs out toward the Pacific. You’re hitting from an elevated tee, with target greens scattered at approximately 90, 140, 180, and even 250+ metres. Honestly, I can’t imagine another range in the world that compares to this. There’s also a short-game area and a putting green, its vibrant, fluorescent green matching the rest of the Kauri Cliffs greens. I hit a few wedges, some mid-irons, a couple of drivers, and rolled a few putts. I was itching to get out there and play well. It’s almost impossible not to get distracted by the view, I don’t know how many times I caught myself saying, “Wow, this place is ridiculous”
The Course: A Rollercoaster of Beauty and Challenge
Kauri Cliffs is an 18-hole, par-72 championship course designed by David Harman. The routing is a journey through a mix of rolling farmland, bush, marshland, and most memorably, towering cliffs above the Pacific Ocean. The course is famous for its variety: 15 holes offer ocean views, and 6 play right along the cliff edge. The front nine weaves through undulating inland terrain, while the back nine delivers a dramatic run of holes along the cliffs.
There are five sets of tees, ranging from the back “Tiger” tees (6527 metres) to the forward “Yellow” tees (4454 metres), so players of all abilities can find a comfortable range.
The first few tee shots aren’t too daunting (we played the middle tees), with generous landing areas, but the wind and elevation changes, it can make club selection important. On holes like 7, 14, and 17, the tee boxes are perched on the edge of dramatic ravines or cliffs, demanding both accuracy and power. The 7th, for example, is a par 3 where you tee off over a jungle filled gorge to a green set against the ocean back drop. If you carry the gorge but still come up short you’ve got a bunker right at the mouth of the green. Club choice is crucial.
The fairways at Kauri Cliffs are a mix of wide, rolling corridors and tighter, more strategic lines often dictated by the wind and the natural contours of the land. Some of the tee shots allow for a little bit of error which is good, whilst others you can kiss your brand new Pro V1 goodbye if you don’t get a good strike on it. The early holes feature fairways bordered by native bush and rough. The undulating terrain means you’ll often be playing from uneven lies, and the thick rough can be punishing if you stray too far. I found out the hard way, on an approach it’s often better to come up short then to hit too long. As you move toward the ocean, you can feel the stakes getting higher. Holes like the 15th have fairways that run parallel to the cliffs, with dramatic drop-offs just a few yards from the short grass. The wind is a factor, sometimes helping, sometimes hurting, and always making you think twice about your line and club choice. Most of the time it can be an assistance if you have a slight fade from the tee, but there’s usually enough room to shape it either way.
The greens at Kauri Cliffs are large in size and fast without being lightning. In fact some of them are just down right massive. They’re generally well-protected by bunkers and, on the cliffside holes, by the natural hazards of the landscape. Many have multiple tiers or gentle slopes, so approach shots need to be precise to avoid tricky two-putts or worse. The greens, especially on the back nine, are set against breathtaking backdrops, sometimes it’s hard to focus on your putt with the ocean stretching out behind the flag.
Standout Holes:
- 4th (Par5): An enjoyable long Par 5, this one has the beach in the background as you make your way up to the green. The rugged bush/jungle lines the right hand side but the fairway is pretty wide. The green is positioned on the right as it curves around the bend. Depending on your line, you can cut the corner but there are plenty of bunkers to catch you out if you fade it too much.
- 6th (Par 4): There’s something I love about hitting over things. This hole has a tee shot (one of many) where you have to hit over a big gorge to a reasonably generous fairway on an upslope, heading towards the ocean. Club selection for the second is tricky because you’re still 140m plus out, hitting upwards, into a gentle breeze, with a green that has bunkers guarding the short side.
- 7th (Par 3): This part of the course is one where you need a minute to take it all in. Very much one of the signature holes, with a 160m tee shot over a gorge to a green perched on what feels like the edge of the world. Miss a fraction short and you’ll be in the bunker, miss hit it badly and it’s gone.
- 15th (Par 5): An elevated tee block, danger down the lefthand side and strategically placed fairway bunkers. The large green is tucked away in the left hand corner and is very reachable in 2. The views from the green are just ridiculous.
- 16th (Par 4): Another beautiful hole, with an elevated tee box hitting to a drivable par 4. You’ll need to hit hard and straight to be a chance to get it on in one. The green has a number of bunkers leading in from the fairway to make life difficult if you stray.
- 17th (Par 4): A long, downhill par 4 with a green nearly 100 feet below the tee, surrounded by bunkers and ocean views. Its hard to explain how beautiful this hole is. Quite possibly my favourite hole on the course.
- 9th & 18th (Par 4 & Par 5): Both are slight dogleg left, teeing off, over a gorge, back towards the clubhouse. Fairway & green side bunkers keep you on your toes and they’re both great holes to finish each 9.
Accommodation & Activities at Kauri Cliffs
As you could imagine, Kauri Cliffs Lodge is known for its comfortable, private accommodation and its incredible setting. The rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed to fit in with the landscape, giving guests a peaceful and exclusive place to relax after a day on the course. We stayed in one of the Ocean view suites, and it was exceptional. The bed in particular was super comfortable.
For the non-golfer there are also plenty of other activities on or off-site, like spa treatments, ATV farm tours, kiwi night walks, private beach picnics and even things like chartering a yacht or taking a scenic helicopter flight.
Room Types
Suites
The main lodge features 22 guest suites, each with private porches and open fireplaces.
Suites are spacious, with high ceilings, elegant furnishings, and large windows that frame views of the golf course, native forest, or the Pacific Ocean.
Bathrooms are luxurious, featuring deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers, and double vanities.
Each suite is designed for privacy, with thoughtful touches like fresh flowers, homemade cookies, and plush bedding.
Owner’s Cottage
For those seeking the ultimate in privacy and space, the Owner’s Cottage is a four-bedroom villa set apart from the main lodge.
It features a private infinity pool, hot tub, multiple fireplaces, a large living and dining area, and expansive outdoor terraces.
The cottage is ideal for families, groups, or those celebrating a special occasion.
Ocean View Rooms & Cottages
Some suites and cottages are positioned to maximize ocean views, with private terraces overlooking the cliffs and the Pacific.
These rooms are perfect for guests who want to wake up to sunrise over the water or enjoy a glass of wine at sunset.
Amenities & Extras
- All accommodations include complimentary Wi-Fi, minibars, and daily housekeeping.
- Guests have access to the lodge’s spa, fitness centre, tennis courts, and infinity pool.
- As mentioned earlier private in-room spa treatments, guided walks, and tours can be arranged as add-ons.
Gastronomy Packages at Kauri Cliffs
Dining at Kauri Cliffs is a highlight of the experience, with a focus on fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. The culinary team crafts menus that showcase the best of New Zealand’s produce, seafood, and meats, often paired with outstanding local wines.
Guests can arrange private dining experiences, including picnics on the beach, barbecues under the stars, or intimate dinners in their suite or cottage. The lodge also offers “destination dining” at scenic spots around the property.
Tee time coincide with lunch? Ours did, so we were able to order freshly made chicken wraps to take with us. Need coffee or a cold drink? No problem, It was all part of the gastronomy package.
Inclusive packages
- Gourmet breakfast, lunch, and multi-course dinner are included daily.
- Pre-dinner drinks and canapés are served each evening.
- A selection of premium wines, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages are included with meals.
- The menu changes daily, with a focus on local seafood (like crayfish and snapper), Hawke’s Bay lamb, and fresh produce from the lodge’s own gardens.
Wine & Food Experiences
- The lodge offers curated wine tastings, often featuring boutique New Zealand wineries.
- Special food and wine pairing dinners are held throughout the year, sometimes with guest chefs or winemakers.
- Cooking classes and kitchen tours can be arranged for guests interested in the culinary side of the experience.
Special Events & Seasonal Menus
- Themed dinners, such as seafood feasts or traditional Kiwi barbecues, are offered on select nights.
- The kitchen is happy to accommodate dietary preferences and can create bespoke menus for special occasions.
Final Thoughts
From the moment you arrive, you’re enveloped in a world of understated luxury and hospitality at the highest level. The lodge itself with its grand feel, the restaurant with its seasonal, homegrown menu and the accommodation options are simply exquisite. Whether you choose a spacious suite or the exclusive Owner’s Residence, every detail and comfort, ensures a stay of unparalleled relaxation.
And, of course, the golf. David Harman’s design is a masterclass, offering a thrilling journey across rolling farmland, through native bush, and along the edge of towering cliffs. The cliffside landscape epitomizes the course’s blend of beauty and challenge, but every hole offers its own unique test and unforgettable vista. The immaculate conditioning and the ever-present, ocean breeze add to the pure joy of the game.
Kauri Cliffs is a holistic escape where world-class golf, exceptional dining, luxurious comfort, and unparalleled natural beauty converge. It’s a place that challenges your game, and leaves you with memories that will last a lifetime. If you seek an adventure that transcends the ordinary, Kauri Cliffs is, without a doubt, a must-experience masterpiece.
If you would like to find out more please contact us on the details below.
Written by Steve McKean, Co-Owner of Luxury Adventures
Luxury Adventures has over 2 decades of crafting bespoke luxury travel experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific.
Steve is passionate about showcasing the region’s most unforgettable places, from hidden alpine retreats, sunny paradises to world-class golf courses.
A keen golfer and travel lover, he blends insider knowledge with a deep respect for local culture and sustainability. When not curating extraordinary journeys, you’ll find him exploring off-the-beaten-path lodges or teeing off at sunrise.
For more information email us: info@luxuryadventures.co.nz or follow our adventures on Instagram here
Linkedin: Connect with Luxury Adventures Directors Steve McKean & Dee McKean
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