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 experiences for everyone travelling together.

Explore our full range of New Zealand golf destinations and luxury experiences here:
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/golf/

Quick Shortlist: Standout New Zealand Golf Courses

If you are looking for a strong starting point, these are perennial favourites for travellers planning a golf holiday in New Zealand:

• Te Arai Links (Northland) – New and 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. We recommend enquiring early, especially 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)

Te Arai Links is rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about golf destinations in the world. It offers two distinct world-class courses — North and South — set among pristine dunes and stunning coastline. In addition, the on-site accommodation provides a sophisticated base for exploring the wider Northland region.

Best luxury base: Stay on-site at Te Arai Links accommodation.
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/listing/golf-at-te-arai-links/

Kauri Cliffs (Northland)

Kauri Cliffs is a bucket-list coastal course that delivers a premium golf experience alongside some of the most dramatic scenery in New Zealand. Consequently, it consistently ranks among the top golf courses in the Southern Hemisphere.

Best luxury base: Stay on-site at The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs.
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/listing/kauri-cliffs-luxury-lodge-accommodation-3/

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary (Taupō)

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is a classic Taupō favourite set in beautiful natural surroundings. It is ideal for combining with a luxury lakeside stay and exploring the wider Taupō region.

Best luxury base: The much-loved Huka Lodge.
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/listing/huka-lodge/

Kinloch Club (Taupō)

Kinloch Club is a standout course for anyone looking for a premium and challenging golfing experience in the Taupō region. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, it is widely regarded as one of the finest courses in New Zealand.

Best luxury base: Stay on-site at The Kinloch Manor and Villas.
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/listing/kinloch-manor-villas/

Cape Kidnappers (Hawke’s Bay)

Cape Kidnappers is internationally acclaimed and consistently described as one of the most unforgettable golf experiences in the world. The course sits dramatically above the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking views from nearly every hole.

For guests who wish to play, the professional team at the clubhouse is available to provide equipment, coaching, and expert guidance throughout the stay.

Best luxury base: Stay on-site at The Farm at Cape Kidnappers.
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/listing/rosewood-cape-kidnappers/

Read more about a luxury stay at Cape Kidnappers here:
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/accommodation/kays-louis-roederer-champagne-dinner-at-cape-kidnappers/

Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club (Kāpiti Coast)

Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club is a renowned links classic within easy reach of Wellington. As a result, it is an ideal addition to any North Island golf itinerary.

Best luxury base: The spectacular Wharekauhau Country Estate.
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/listing/wharekauhau-lodge-luxury-accommodation/

Best Golf Courses in the South Island

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

Clearwater Resort (Canterbury)

Clearwater Resort is a strong Canterbury option and is ideal for travellers routing through Christchurch and the central South Island. Furthermore, it pairs beautifully with a stay at one of the region’s finest luxury lodges.

Best luxury base: Stay at Otahuna Lodge.

Terrace Downs (Canterbury)

Terrace Downs is a popular choice for a golf-focused countryside escape with a relaxed and scenic setting. The course offers a peaceful high-country experience that is hard to match anywhere in New Zealand.

Best luxury base: Stay on-site at Terrace Downs Resort.
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/listing/golf-at-terrace-downs-2/

Millbrook (Queenstown)

Millbrook is one of Queenstown’s most established golf destinations and is ideal for travellers who want variety and convenience. In addition, the on-site resort provides exceptional accommodation and dining options.

Best luxury base: Stay on-site at Millbrook Resort.
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/listing/golf-at-millbrook/

Jack’s Point (Queenstown)

Jack’s Point is a dramatic, design-forward course with a striking alpine backdrop. It is often described as a highlight round for visitors to Queenstown and is a must-play for anyone building a South Island golf itinerary.

Best luxury base: The modern luxury of ROKI Collection, Queenstown.
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/new-zealand/roki-collection-queenstown-modern-luxury/

The Hills (Queenstown Region)

The Hills offers a premium Central Otago experience and is an excellent choice for anyone looking to include world-class golf in their itinerary. The course is set among stunning landscapes and provides a truly memorable round.

Best luxury base: Stay on-site at The Lodge at The Hills.
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/listing/lodge-at-the-hills-2/

Top Golf Courses in New Zealand: Quick Reference Guide

How to Plan a New Zealand Golf Itinerary

How Long Do You Need?

• 7 to 10 days: Best for one island — either North or South — with three to five rounds included.

• 10 to 14 days: Ideal for both islands with five to eight rounds, plus downtime and off-course experiences.

North Island or South Island?

• Choose the North Island for iconic lodge pairings, coastal Northland golf at Te Arai and Kauri Cliffs, Taupō golf, and Hawke’s Bay wine country.

• Choose the South Island for Queenstown-based golf, alpine scenery, and a great mix of luxury stays.

• Combine both islands if you want the full once-in-a-lifetime New Zealand golf journey.

Explore our New Zealand luxury travel experiences here:
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/new-zealand/

Travelling with Family Members or Friends Who Have Different Interests?

A great golf holiday should be enjoyable for everyone in your group. That is why we can incorporate spa experiences, private guides, wine tours, scenic flights, cultural encounters, wellness activities, and luxury lodge experiences alongside your golf itinerary.

As a result, every traveller can enjoy memorable experiences tailored to their interests while still sharing an exceptional New Zealand journey together.

Discover more New Zealand activities and experiences here:
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/new-zealand/activities-new-zealand/

Plan Your New Zealand Golf Holiday with Luxury Adventures

Whether you are planning your first New Zealand golf trip or returning to explore new courses, Luxury Adventures can create a fully tailored itinerary that combines world-class golf with exceptional luxury accommodation, private transfers, and unforgettable experiences.

Our team has been designing bespoke luxury travel throughout New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, and the South Pacific since 1999. We know these courses, lodges, and regions intimately — and we can take care of every detail so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

What We Can Arrange for You

✔ Tee times at New Zealand’s top golf courses

✔ Luxury lodge and hotel accommodation

✔ Private transfers and helicopter options

✔ Wine tours, spa experiences, and scenic flights

✔ Tailored experiences for everyone travelling with you

✔ Seamless end-to-end itinerary planning

Contact Luxury Adventures today to start planning your New Zealand golf journey:
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/contact/

Explore our golf destination pages here:
https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/golf/

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best golf course in New Zealand?

New Zealand has several world-class courses that are consistently ranked among the best in the Southern Hemisphere. Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay, Kauri Cliffs in Northland, and Te Arai Links are frequently cited as the top three. However, the best course for you will depend on your preferred style of golf, your travel itinerary, and the regions you plan to visit.

How many golf courses are there in New Zealand?

New Zealand has over 400 golf courses spread across both the North Island and South Island. These range from world-renowned championship courses to relaxed local clubs, making New Zealand one of the most accessible and diverse golf destinations in the world.

When is the best time to play golf in New Zealand?

The best time to play golf in New Zealand is generally from October through to April, which covers the New Zealand spring and summer months. During this period, the weather is warm, the days are long, and course conditions are at their best. However, many courses are playable year-round, particularly in Northland and Hawke’s Bay.

Can I play golf at Cape Kidnappers without staying at the lodge?

Yes. While staying at The Farm at Cape Kidnappers provides the most immersive experience, it is possible to arrange a round of golf at Cape Kidnappers as a day visit. Our team can organise tee times and transfers as part of a wider Hawke’s Bay itinerary.

Is New Zealand a good golf destination for groups?

Absolutely. New Zealand is an outstanding destination for golf groups of all sizes. Many of the top courses and lodges can accommodate private group bookings, and we can tailor itineraries to suit groups with a mix of interests and experience levels.

Can Luxury Adventures organise a complete New Zealand golf holiday?

Yes. Luxury Adventures specialises in creating fully customised New Zealand golf itineraries. We can arrange tee times, luxury accommodation, private transfers, helicopter options, wine tours, and off-course experiences for everyone in your group. Contact our team to begin planning your bespoke New Zealand golf journey.

https://www.luxuryadventures.co.nz/contact/

Luxury Adventures — Tailoring luxury golf and travel experiences throughout New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, and the South Pacific since 1999.