Te Arai Links - World class golf & a luxury coastal stay

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Te-Arai Links – World Class Golf & a Luxury Coastal Stay

By Steve McKean, Co-Owner of Luxury Adventures

I’ve been fortunate enough to play golf in many places, but Te Arai Links left a lasting impression.

The setting is a large part of its appeal. Coastal dunes, towering pines and Pacific Ocean views frame two courses designed by Tom Doak and Coore & Crenshaw. However, the experience extends well beyond the fairways.

During our visit, we enjoyed the accommodation, explored the dining options and played the North Course. What stood out was how naturally it all came together: thoughtful service, excellent facilities and golf that encouraged creativity.

If you’re planning a New Zealand golf holiday, Te Arai Links deserves serious consideration.

Arriving at Te Arai Links

Te Arai Links is around a 75-minute drive north of central Auckland, depending on traffic.

As we approached through farmland and pines, the anticipation grew. I had seen the photographs and course flyovers, but arriving in person was something else.

The welcome was friendly and efficient. The team explained how everything worked, while my clubs were taken to the range ready for a warm-up.

Despite the scale of the resort, the service felt personal. It was a reassuring start to the stay.

Practice Facilities Worth Arriving Early For

Allow time to warm up before your round. The practice facilities are part of the experience, rather than somewhere to rush through on the way to the first tee.

The range has several target greens, while the short-game area lets you practise chips and bunker shots.

Then there is The Playground, a two-acre putting green with a daily course of 12 to 18 holes. Its slopes offer a lively introduction to the challenges ahead.

During our visit, it was heaps of fun. It would be just as enjoyable for a friendly putting competition as a serious warm-up.

Playing the North Course

Designed by Tom Doak, the North Course moves between the coast and a more sheltered landscape of pines, dunes and exposed sand.

We played this course during our visit, and I loved the variety. Some holes encouraged an attacking shot. Others made a more cautious approach look sensible.

The fairways often felt generous, but that did not mean you could switch off. Where the ball finished mattered, especially when setting up an approach to the greens.

A Tempting Opening Hole

The first is a short par four that immediately asks a question: should you play safely or have a go?

Naturally, I was tempted.

My opening drive found the sand on the right, leaving an awkward shot towards the raised green. In hindsight, a long iron onto the fairway would have been the smarter choice.

It was an early reminder that width from the tee does not remove the need for strategy.

Greens That Reward Imagination

The greens were a highlight of the round.

Their contours made me think about more than distance and line. I had to consider where the ball should land, how it would roll and which slopes might help.

At one point, I found myself putting from around 30 metres off the green. That is not a shot I play every day.

Rather than making the round feel intimidating, these options made it more enjoyable. I could experiment, use the ground and try something different.

A Memorable Birdie on the Ninth

The par-five ninth became a personal favourite, helped by a particularly fortunate drive.

I hit a strong tee shot over the rise and found myself with only around 90 metres left. I suspect a bounce from the path helped it along, although I never saw it happen.

For a moment, eagle looked possible. I finished with a birdie instead.

A birdie is a birdie. I was happy to take it.

The Challenge of the Eleventh

The par-five eleventh was another standout.

With forest on one side and large sandy areas on the other, it demanded careful placement. Missing right made the approach look much more difficult, especially from the sand.

It was a hole where choosing the right route mattered as much as hitting the ball well.

A Coastal Finish

The final three holes brought us back towards the ocean.

The sixteenth offered another tempting opportunity on a short par four. Next came a striking par three with the sea behind it, before the eighteenth led to a punchbowl green.

It was a fitting finish: scenic, strategic and full of opportunities to use the contours.

The South Course: Coastal Golf by Coore & Crenshaw

My advice for a Te Arai Links holiday is simple: make time for both courses.

Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, the South Course offers a different experience from Tom Doak’s North. The ocean is a constant presence, while rolling dunes and firm turf encourage you to think beyond simply hitting the ball at the flag.

The design follows the natural shape of the land. Short par fours sit alongside longer, more demanding holes. There is room to play, but choosing the right angle matters.

From the Pines to the Pacific

The opening three holes begin among the trees. Then the fourth takes the round into a more open coastal landscape.

It is a long par four that sweeps downhill, with the contours helping a well-placed drive gain distance. Beyond it, the ocean becomes a defining part of the course.

That change of scenery is part of the appeal. Rather than showing you everything from the first tee, the layout gradually reveals its coastline.

More Than a Driver-and-Wedge Test

What appeals to me about the South Course’s design is the emphasis on options.

The fairways offer room from the tee, but width does not make every position equally useful. Your route into the green depends on where you leave the ball, the wind and the contours ahead.

The firm fescue surfaces also bring the ground into play. A running approach can be an alternative to a high shot, particularly when the breeze strengthens.

That is exactly the kind of golf I enjoy: different ways to solve the same problem, rather than one required shot.

Short Par Fours with Plenty to Consider

Coore and Crenshaw highlight the third, sixth and sixteenth as distinctive short par fours shaped by the land.

These holes provide a contrast to the longer tests. Distance alone is not the answer. The dunes, slopes and approach angles give you reasons to pause before reaching for the driver.

For a travelling golfer, that variety is a good reason to allow more than one round. A second visit can reveal options that were not obvious the first time.

A Strong Coastal Finish

The closing stretch brings the seaside setting to the fore. Holes fifteen through eighteen are among the coastal highlights identified by the designers.

The seventeenth is a short par three with bunkers guarding the front and the sea beside it. It is a reminder that a hole does not need to be long to demand your attention.

With the Pacific framing the finish, there is plenty to enjoy beyond the scorecard.

Dining at Te Arai Links

Food was another enjoyable part of our visit. We tried the dining options available at the time, with the ocean-facing setting a particular highlight.

The resort’s current dining line-up includes Ric’s at the Ocean, the North Clubhouse, the Halfway House and Silver Bean.

Ric’s at the Ocean

Ric’s at the Ocean overlooks the South Course’s eighteenth fairway and the Pacific.

It offers relaxed, all-day dining, making it an option for a meal after golf or time together as a family.

North Clubhouse

The North Clubhouse overlooks the opening and closing holes, with ocean views beyond.

Its menu combines club favourites with seasonal, locally sourced produce. During our visit, we enjoyed having somewhere to sit back, compare scores and reflect on the round.

Halfway House and Silver Bean

The Halfway House sits between the North Course’s tenth and eleventh holes. The current menu highlights include burger dogs and fish tacos.

Meanwhile, Silver Bean is near the range at the South Clubhouse. It is a convenient stop for coffee and a quick bite before heading out.

Book restaurant reservations alongside your golf arrangements, particularly when travelling with a group.

Staying at Te Arai Links

Staying on site lets you enjoy the resort without fitting everything around a return drive.

During our visit, we stayed in accommodation then described as suites. I liked the modern, understated interiors and the use of natural colours and materials.

The current accommodation collection includes Ocean View Rooms, Ocean Cottages and four-bedroom Villas.

Ocean View Rooms

Ocean View Rooms offer accommodation for up to two adults. They are a practical choice for couples, solo travellers or golfers sharing a room.

Breakfast is included, with one à la carte item and tea or coffee per guest.

Ocean Cottages

The Ocean Cottages provide more space for couples, families or friends.

Two-bedroom cottages accommodate up to four adults. A one-bedroom option is also listed, although it is not available during peak season.

We can help you check the configuration and availability for your travel dates.

Four-Bedroom Villas

The Villas offer four bedrooms and accommodation for up to eight adults.

They are worth considering for a group who want to stay together while retaining their own bedrooms. Ocean views and shared living spaces add to the appeal.

For ideas beyond Te Arai, explore our New Zealand luxury accommodation collection.

Stay & Play Both North & South Courses

To maximise your time at Te Arai Links it make sense to stay & play both courses. Te Arai offers a range of luxury accommodation options, all designed to provide a relaxing, high-end experience for golfers and non-golfers alike. Here’s an overview of what you can expect:

1. Ocean View Rooms & Suites

These are beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each offering views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding dunes. We stayed in the suites and I can tell you, the interiors are modern and understated, with natural materials and tones that feel modern and stylish.

Features: Super King or Queen Twin beds, private balconies or terraces, spacious bathrooms, and all the amenities you’d expect from a luxury resort.
Best for: Couples or solo travelers looking for comfort, style, and a convenience.
Inclusions: Room rates include breakfast (one à la carte item plus tea/coffee).

2. Ocean Cottages

The Ocean Cottages are perfect for families or small groups wanting a bit more space and privacy. These cottages are set close to the ocean, with large windows and outdoor areas to soak up the views and fresh sea air.

Configurations: Available in one- or two-bedroom layouts.
Features: Generous living spaces, kitchenettes, private outdoor seating, and luxurious bathrooms.
Best for: Families, friends, or those planning a longer stay.
Inclusions: Breakfast included; super king beds can be split to king singles for flexibility.

3. Four-Bedroom Villas

For the ultimate in space and exclusivity, the Four-Bedroom Villas are the top-tier option at Te Arai Links. These are ideal for groups, families, or those seeking a private retreat.

Features: Expansive living and dining areas, full kitchens, multiple bathrooms, private terraces, and panoramic ocean views.
Capacity: Accommodates up to eight adults comfortably.
Inclusions: Breakfast for all guests, flexible bedding arrangements, and all the comforts of a luxury home.

Service & Extras

Personalised Service: The staff at Te Arai Links were great and the attention to detail was spot on.
Extras: In-room amenities, daily housekeeping, and concierge services are standard. Our packages can be tailored to include golf, spa treatments, or other experiences like horse riding. (just ask us for more info)
Minimum Stay: There is typically a two-night minimum stay during peak periods.

Summary Table

Accommodation Type	Capacity	Key Features	Best For
Ocean View Rooms	2 adults	Ocean views, balcony, breakfast included	Couples, solo travelers
Ocean Cottages	2-4 adults	1-2 bedrooms, kitchenette, outdoor space	Families, small groups
Four-Bedroom Villas	Up to 8 adults	Full kitchen, large living, private terrace	Groups, large families

Te Arai Links’ accommodation is all about understated luxury, comfort, and convenience. If you are travelling solo, with a partner or a group, there’s an option to suit your needs, all with world-class golf and dining just steps away.

Beyond the Golf Course

Te Arai Links also offers options for guests who do not plan to play every day.

The resort now lists a Spa & Fitness Centre, alongside activities such as tennis, pickleball, mountain biking and water sports.

That broader offering is useful when planning a trip for couples or groups with different interests. Some guests can play golf while others spend their time elsewhere around the resort.

Ask us to check activity availability and any additional costs when arranging your stay.

Planning Your Te Arai Links Golf Holiday

A little advance planning will help you make the most of your visit.

Allow time for both courses. Coordinate your stay and tee times before finalising the wider itinerary.
Prepare to walk. Te Arai Links is a walking-only golf facility, with no golf carts available for hire.
Pack spikeless shoes. Metal spikes and soft spikes are not permitted.
Request caddies early. Caddie services are subject to availability and should be arranged in advance.
Check maintenance dates. Course aeration and recovery periods may affect your preferred travel window.
Confirm booking conditions. Standalone green-fee bookings currently have a 28-day booking window. Ask us about arrangements for your stay.

Te Arai can form part of a wider New Zealand holiday. Browse our sample itineraries for inspiration.

Te Arai Links FAQs

Where is Te Arai Links?

Te Arai Links is on the North Island’s east coast, around a 75-minute drive north of central Auckland. Travel time varies with traffic and your departure point.

Who designed the courses?

Tom Doak designed the North Course. Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw designed the South Course.

Can visitors play Te Arai Links?

Yes. Te Arai Links welcomes visiting golfers, subject to availability and booking conditions. Confirm access to each course when planning your visit.

Should I play the North Course or the South Course?

If your schedule allows, plan to play both. The North Course combines coastal and inland holes with distinctive greens. The South Course has a stronger oceanfront emphasis.

Are golf carts available?

No. Te Arai Links is a walking-only golf facility. Caddies can be requested in advance, subject to availability.

What golf shoes should I bring?

Bring spikeless golf shoes. Both metal spikes and soft spikes are prohibited on the courses.

Can non-golfers enjoy a stay?

Yes. Dining, the Spa & Fitness Centre and a range of activities provide options beyond golf. Availability and charges should be checked before arrival.

What accommodation is available?

The resort offers Ocean View Rooms, Ocean Cottages and four-bedroom Villas. The best option depends on your group size, preferred layout and travel dates.

Plan Your Te Arai Links Experience

My North Course round was one of those days that reminded me why I love travelling to play golf.

The scenery was exceptional, but the choices made it memorable. There was always another line to consider or a different way to approach the green.

Combine that with comfortable accommodation and good food, and Te Arai Links becomes much more than a place to play a round.

Would you like to include it in your New Zealand golf holiday? Luxury Adventures can bring together your accommodation, tee times, transfers and wider travel plans.

Enquire Now to Start Planning Your Golf Journey

Final Thoughts

Depending on the publication, Te Arai Links North Course is ranked among the top two or three golf courses in New Zealand every year. It’s often only edged out by another Tom Doak masterpiece, Tara Iti, or by Te Arai Links’ own South Course. All three are consistently listed within the top 50 or 100 courses in the world—and for good reason. They truly are that exceptional and are a must-play for anyone touring New Zealand.

With world-class golf, exquisite dining, and luxury accommodation all just a stone’s throw from Auckland, Te Arai Links is arguably the best golf destination in New Zealand.

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