Whether you’re the next Rory McIlroy or just like taking your anger out on the golf balls, golfing is an excuse to don your best polo shirt, drive through the luscious greenery in your golf buggy and try and beat the father-in- law at his game. Whatever your reason, there is certainly no better time to hit the green as we leave winter behind. We have rounded up ten of Auckland’s best golf courses for you to perfect that swing and get those bogeys!
Titirangi Golf Club
New Lynn
Proud to be ranked as one of New Zealand’s best golfing spots, Titirangi certainly lives up to its title with its world-class golf course. Not only should they be proud of their killer location and title, they can also boast about the fact that theirs is the only course in the country designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie. This famous, British, golf course architect—whose designs are noted for their sensitivity to the nature and surroundings of the courses—has also made playing at Titirangi Golf Club risky yet rewarding for its private members and players.
Chamberlain Park Golf Park
Mount Albert
Whether you are an experienced player, who has a a record par stroke or you’re a bit of a newbie to the sport, Chamberlain offers a course for all levels and talents. With smooth rolling, open fairways and manicured greens, you’ll be sure to enjoy your 18 hole game without running the risk of losing your balls! With only a five minute drive from the CBD, amazing club house facilities, it’s no wonder that Chamberlain Park Golf Course is so popular with the golfing community!
Remuera Golf Club
Remuera
Set in picturesque parklands and a whimsical woodland setting, Remuera Golf Club is one of Auckland’s premier golf courses. With it’s tight fairways and 18-hole par-72 course, golfers of all levels will find the course challenging, rewarding and heaps of fun. Priding themselves on their in-house, club facilities and their friendliness towards members, old and new, Remuera Golf Course should definitely be on your golfing radar.
The Dunes Golf Resort
Matarangi
Surrounded by pristine, sandy white beaches and crystal clear waters, you’ll have to restrain yourself from wanting to drop your clubs and dive on in. However, the course at Dunes is pretty spectacular in itself. With its sandy base providing an all-weather facility, its challenging layout and insane views, you’d be silly not to book in for a tee off with your buddies. Not only can you play the 18-hole championship course, you can walk, horse-ride, dine at the restaurant and stay overnight in the accommodation on site. Sign me up!
Clarks Beach Golf Club
Clarks Beach
It’s no surprise that Clarks Beach Golf Course was voted in the top ten of country golf courses in New Zealand. Situated on the shore of the Manukau Harbour and with its pohutakawa lined fairways, not only will you be spoilt with views galore, you’ll be guaranteed to have an amazing game of golf. Half way stops in the Open Tournaments, on holiday weekends, to give you the opportunity to enjoy fresh flounder that has been locally caught and takes centre stage on the club’s menu.
Howick Golf Club
Bucklands Beach
With only a 35-minute drive from central Auckland, in the cute little suburb of Bucklands Beach you’ll find Howick Golf Club. With a lot of the holes situated on the peninsula cliff tops, you’ll be spoilt with views of the surrounding Hauraki Gulf islands including Rangitoto. Don’t forget your camera as you will want to snap up these incredible sights. If you’re lucky enough, you might even capture glimpses of the Sky Tower and Waitemata Harbour too!
Waiheke Golf Club
Waiheke Island
With plans to expand from its 11 hole to 18 hole golf course, residents and members of Waiheke Golf Club are beyond excited. With views of the water from several spots of this picturesque course and the fact that it is open seven days a week (weather permitting), if golf is your thing, you should be sure to stop off at Waiheke Golf Course. With all types of hire available, you won’t have to worry about bringing your clubs and gear across on the ferry! Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat at the cafe as all of their treats are homemade and delish!
The Grange Golf Club
Papatoetoe
It should come to no surprise that The Grange has hosted the NZ Open Championships for eight years, as its pristine course and immaculate greens make it one of Auckland’s most premier golf venues. Hosting an 18-hole course, you can be sure to have an impressive and enjoyable game of golf in its Papatoetoe location. Be sure to book your tee-off time, as this popular golfing spot is a big hit with members and visitors alike.
Whitford Park Golf Club
Whitford
With 18 holes to play amongst 254 acres of indigenous trees, streams and all in all lushness, it’s hardly surprising that Whitford Park Golf Club is extremely popular with locals, families and avid golfers. Not only is a cracking game of golf on offer, members also have the chance to divulge in the swimming pool, tennis courts, picnic area, bar and dining area and kids play area. Well, the kids play area is for kids only, sorry! But with the opportunity for golfers of all skill areas to enjoy a fantastic game, Whitford is the place to be.
Pakuranga Golf Club
Howick
Pakuranga Golf Club is a popular 18-hole course located just two minutes north of Botany Town Centre and with its peaceful park-like setting, it's an ideal golfing location for many. With the gentle rolling 6013 metre, par 72 championship course, there is opportunity for some challenging shots yet spots worthy for beginners and golfers of all skill levels and capabilities. With its gorgeous grounds, it's no wonder that Pakuranga Golf Club is popular for weddings and functions alike.
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Image credit: The Dunes Golf Resort