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South Pacific Specialists
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Enjoy a golf holiday in New Zealand, where the pace of life is slower and the courses rarely crowded. A wave of golf course creation in New Zealand saw legacy-built courses each vying for the most spectacular setting with exclusive lodges and terrain. We showcase the best of these courses with some must-see New Zealand icons included - such as Waiheke Island, Mount Cook, Milford Sound and geothermal Rotorua.
Duration: 17 Days
Starts: Auckland
Finishes: Queenstown
As the name belies, ‘The City of Sails’ – as Auckland is fondly known – is a stunning sea side city. The city centre surrounds a large harbour that bustles with life, both on water and on land. In the Auckland region, the North Island is geographically narrow and the city straddles a slim piece of land with coastline facing both the Pacific Ocean, and, on the wild West Coast, the Tasman Sea. Boutique shopping, pulsing, Pacific-inspired markets and a passionate cafe culture make this city a charming place to visit.
2 nights in Park Hyatt Auckland
A Quiet Tropical Paradise in Aucklands Hauraki Gulf, Artists and free-spirits mingle with the rich and famous on blissful Waiheke Island.
Just 35 minutes by ferry from Auckland, across the beautiful Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island seems a million miles away in pace and beauty. Waiheke has a special charm and seaside holiday atmosphere. Waiheke Island is an eclectic mix of cultures, activities, vineyards, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, beautiful beaches, scenic walking tracks and much, much more.
The “small is beautiful” philosophy yields low quantities of extremely high-quality fruit, which is made into international award-winning wines. Visit up to 4 premium vineyards on a 5.5-hour exclusive tour. We’ll tailor this tour to suit your needs and timeframe.
Northland is renowned for its spectacular coastlines, marine reserves and kauri forests. The natural landscape is its playground.
With pristine, white sand beaches, an abundance of maritime sports, and a relaxed and long hot summer always expected! Northland consistently draws visitors from around New Zealand and the globe.
Leisure activities abound in the stunning Bay of Islands with sailing, kayaking, and dolphin sightseeing all available year-round.
The sub-tropical climate keeps Northland warm throughout the year.
3 nights at The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs
The David Harmon designed golf course, is an eye-popping 6510 metre, 72 par
Kauri Cliffs was designed and built by David Harman of Golf Course Consultants, Orlando, Florida. The par 72 championship golf course measures 7,139 yards / 6,528 metres and offers five sets of tees to challenge every skill level. Fifteen holes view the Pacific Ocean, six of which are played alongside cliffs which plunge to the sea. The beautiful inland holes wind through marsh, forest and farmland. Kauri Cliffs is currently ranked #37 in the world by Golf Digest Top 100 Greatest Golf Courses in the World.
Explore the very top of New Zealand it includes return scenic flights over 90 mile beach and the east coast plus a 4WD vehicle tour of the area.
A popular and fantastic way to explore the very top of New Zealand it includes return scenic flights over 90 mile beach and the east coast plus a 2.5hr vehicle tour in the area. This tour consists of an initial 45-minute scenic flight heading up to the west coast and 90 mile beach before landing at the private airstrip. The tour guide will meet the plane to begin the vehicle tour visiting Cape Reinga lighthouse, Tapotupotu Bay and Te Paki Giant sand dunes for sand tobogganing before boarding your return flight to Paihia.
This morning fly to Rotorua
Rotorua is surrounded by steaming lakes, bubbling hot pools and bursting geysers, host to some of the world’s most incredible natural forces. A heartland of Maori culture, the local people have embraced this turbulent land. For the traveller there is a breadth of attractions – families will enjoy viewing farm attractions and native wildlife, adventure seekers can experience world class white water rafting or mountain biking, while culture enthusiasts can experience indepth vibrant Maori traditions.
2 nights at Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel
Visit Wai O Tapu and Waimamgu Volcanic Valley
In this tour you will visit Rotorua’s most natural and popular geothermal parks: Wai O Tapu and Waimamgu Volcanic Valley. You will see volcanoes, geysers, New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool mud pools and hot springs. The two parks offer a variety of thermal activity: at Wai O Tapu, the colourful hot springs are the key features along with the famous Lady Knox geyser; at Waimangu Volcanic Valley, you will learn about the history and legends of the great eruption of Mt Tarawera which blew open this now spectacular, bush covered, geothermal park. To bring the story alive, you will visit The Buried Village, which is the site of a former Maori village, destroyed during the Tarawera volcanic eruption.
Stay at Huka Lodge
Lake Taupo – The Biggest Volcanic Crater in the World Impressive is the word best used to describe Lake Taupo; after all, it is the biggest volcanic crater in the World! Lake Taupo is set amidst clean, green countryside, spectacular mountain scenery, beautiful native bush and some of the largest pine forests in the Southern Hemisphere. Taupo offers many leisure activities including exploring the lake by boat for scenery or fishing; view the mighty Huka Falls or visit local geothermal sites with natural hot pools and springs, steaming craters and boiling mud pools.
1 night at Huka Lodge
After a days golfing travel to Hawkes Bay
This Golf Course is set in the heart of the scenic Wairakei Tourist Park. This makes a round at the course a rare and challenging experience. There are plenty of fairway bunkers and hazards on this undulating course. Officially opened in 1970, Wairakei International Golf Course graces natural rolling countryside near Taupo in the central North Island. With 108 large well-placed bunkers, 6414 metres (par 72) men, and 4748 metres (par 72) ladies.
Then travel to Napier – Art Deco City set in a Coastal Wine Region The Pacific Ocean provides a stunning backdrop to the Hawke’s Bay, framed to the south by the dramatic Cape Kidnappers and the Tukituki hills.
2 nights at The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
Approximate Distance: 170 km
Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins
Atop towering cliffs lies a wild and thrilling golf adventure created by course architect of the decade - Tom Doak.
Cape Kidnappers opened on January 2, 2004 and already they have been voted the 4th top golf course in the world (Golf Magazine Sept 2009) Every hole has a view of the ocean, and Doak was able to route his course to incorporate several stunning fairways along the very edge of the cliff tops, siting greens where any ball that misses will plunge inevitably down 500 feet of sheer drop. Cape Kidnappers is a once in a lifetime experience, not to be missed.
Mt Cook National Park is known for its exquisite alpine beauty and is home to the highest mountain in New Zealand, Mt Cook.
Mt Cook National Park is known for its exquisite alpine beauty and is home to the highest mountain in New Zealand, Mt Cook. Its Maori name, ‘Aoraki’ means ‘cloud piercer’ and at 12,016ft (3,755m) it towers above the surrounding snow-covered peaks in the park. A third of the park is covered in permanent ice and snow and the mighty Tasman Glacier is the longest glacier outside of the polar regions. This is the very heart and soul of a World Heritage and National Park wilderness playground. Ice, snow, hidden valleys, lakes and glaciers offer golden opportunities for discovery, relaxation and adventure.
2 nights at The Hermitage
Approximate Distance: 335 km
Total Driving Time: 4 hours
Experience the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake and its icebergs, in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Today take a unique guided experience departing Aoraki/Mount Cook village. Board your MAC boat, and explore the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake, where you will discover the ever-changing ice face of the Glacier and icebergs, making each trip different from the last due to changing winds and currents. Knowledgeable guides, enhance your experience with their expertise and passion for this amazing alpine environment. Have you ever been alongside, discovered or touched an iceberg?
Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the magnificent Southern Alps, is New Zealand's most celebrated destination.
Offering a wealth of accommodation to suit all travellers, there is huge diversity in the experiences to be enjoyed – from adrenaline activities such as bungee jumps and sky diving, adventurous excursions like jet-boating and hiking through to superb golf, gourmet food and wine tours or romantic hot air ballooning.
4 nights at Eichardts Private Hotel
This is an 18 hole par 72 championship course it offers golfers of any calibre a challenging and unforgettable experience.
With a backdrop of 2300 vertical metres of the razorback Remarkables mountain range and an armchair view of an outstanding lake and mountain panorama. Just as the rough-hewn stone walls adjacent to the fairways evoke its high country farming heritage, so the entire Jack’s Point Golf Course has been designed to take full advantage of its history and terrain – raw, dramatic and wild.
Take off from Queenstown, and fly above the rugged backcountry of Central Otago
Witness what nature has created over the years, as you journey over two remarkable National Parks; Mt Aspiring and World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park. Upon landing at Milford Sound Airport you will be surrounded by some of the most magnificent scenery in the world and you’ll board your Mitre Peak Cruises vessel and begin your voyage cruising the length of the 16km fiord out to Tasman Sea. Complete your journey with a scenic flight over the Southern Alps back to Queenstown.
This is New Zealand golf at its best.
Set in a natural, alpine amphitheatre, against the backdrop of the Remarkables mountain range, the golf course at Millbrook exploits the dramatic terrain fully, delivering world-class golf. Millbrook is quite simply a fantastic golf resort. The 18-hole, par 72 championship course was designed by renowned professional and master golfer, Sir Bob Charles. It features four different tee positions for complete enjoyment at all levels of playing expertise. Besides golf, Millbrook has been designed to provide the finest health and body treatments.
Transfer to Queenstown airport for your onward flight
Say farewell to Queenstown today as you board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional New Zealand golfing adventure.
If you still want more – perhaps a stop off in Fiji or Australia on the way home – just ask!
“This trip combines the best of golfing in New Zealand whilst also including the must-see scenic wonders on offer. We can easily add excursions to the itinerary for non-golfing partners. ”
Ready to find out more? Talk to one of our friendly travel designers about his tour. We guarantee you it will be the experience of a lifetime!
ENQUIRELike what you see? Contact us today to find out more about our exclusive itineraries. Each Absolute New Zealand tour is tailored to who you are and what you want to do.
Our team has access to New Zealand's most unique accommodation, superb activities, and flight specials. Contact us for a personalised New Zealand experience.
Christchurch to Queenstown
Queenstown to Queenstown
Auckland to Queenstown
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Park Hyatt Auckland is perfectly located on the water’s edge and will offer expansive views across Wynyard Quarter’s Lighter Basin and out to the Waitematā Harbour. Our sophisticated waterfront residence has 195 guestrooms, four restaurants and bars, versatile and elegant event spaces, a day spa, a 25-metre infinity pool, and a full fitness center. Enjoy a luxurious, 5-star experience.
The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs has 180 degree views of the Pacific Ocean, Cape Brett, and the Cavalli Islands. It’s where guests enjoy rooms for reading and playing cards, checking emails, holding meetings, or enjoying cocktails before an á la carte gourmet meal that in fine weather is commonly taken on the verandah. The restaurant serves only the finest New Zealand lamb, beef, and seafood. Gentlemen will require a jacket for cocktails and dinner. Kauri Cliffs has 11 charming cottages, each with two suites providing a total of 22 units. Each has it own private porch, an open fireplace, and walk-in wardrobe. The cottages are nestled in native bush and overlook the golf course and the Pacific Ocean.
Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel cares about adding value beyond a room to rest your head. Their philosophy is about distinction and sharing the New Zealand story with you. All this in a setting of authentic luxury where everything you touch in these exquisite rooms is of the highest standard. The one acre of grounds includes rose gardens, sweeping lawns, swimming pool, secret grotto, sandy beach, private jetty, and nine guest rooms.
Huka Lodge is sitting on 17 acres of countryside on the banks of the Waikato River, Huka Lodge boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court and a spa pool. Huka Lodge is just 10 minutes’ walk from the famous Huka Falls. You can also choose play a game of croquet, or explore the area using the free mountain bikes. The property also features a library, a terrace and massage services.
Set atop 6,000 rolling acres of stunning pasture-land in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is the perfect setting for honeymoons and romantic getaways. The cluster of luxury lodge buildings suggest a working farm with the buildings combining rustic and textured materials with comfortable modern furniture. Every suite offers its own private balcony and affords spectacular views of the property, golf course and Pacific Ocean.
Proudly New Zealand & family owned, the Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki/Mount Cook is an iconic hotel with a rich history spanning over 130 years.
The Hermitage is the perfect base to explore the natural wonders of the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, with a variety of accommodation options, a collection of dining establishments & unique activities whilst providing genuine kiwi hospitality.
Eichardt’s Private Hotel is a Queenstown icon providing fine accommodation in seven luxurious Lake View Suites, four comfortably appointed Lakefront Apartments, The Residence and The Penthouse, all situated on premium lakefront positions in the heart of Queenstown. Eichardt’s opulent suites invite guests to soak up a sense of quiet before exploring one of the world’s truly remarkable locations. The hotel suites all feature a super-king bed, fireplace and mini-bar, a dressing room and bathroom.
Join one of the local wine aficionado’s for an exclusive behind the scenes wine producers tour. You can choose from premium vineyards like Mudbrick, Obsidian, Te Whau, Jurassic , Destiny Bay…and potentially Man o War. At each vineyard taste a selection of wines and enjoy an in-depth discussion with the winemaker. Barrel tastings at one vineyard can also be arranged depending on seasonal availability.
If you fancy something a little tactile, it is also possible to visit a bronze crafting studio, a cobbler who makes individual pairs of shoes from scratch, a ceramic artist or a visit to the spectacular sculpture park. Those who wish to break up the day may enjoy a brisk walk on one of the many beautiful beaches Waiheke is famous for. (varying degrees of difficulty). This tour can be booked as a half- or a full day tour.
Kauri Cliffs was designed and built by David Harman of Golf Course Consultants, Orlando, Florida. The par 72 championship golf course measures 7,139 yards / 6,528 metres and offers five sets of tees to challenge every skill level. Fifteen holes view the Pacific Ocean, six of which are played alongside cliffs which plunge to the sea. The beautiful inland holes wind through marsh, forest and farmland. Kauri Cliffs is currently ranked #37 in the world by Golf Digest Top 100 Greatest Golf Courses in the World.
A popular and fantastic way to explore the very top of New Zealand it includes return scenic flights over 90 mile beach and the east coast plus a 2.5hr vehicle tour in the area. This tour consists of an initial 45-minute scenic flight heading up to the west coast and 90 mile beach before landing at the private airstrip. The tour guide will meet the plane to begin the vehicle tour visiting Cape Reinga lighthouse and Tapotupotu Bay before boarding your return flight..
Within 180 hectares of native flora and fauna sits one of New Zealand’s finest golf courses.
Whilst researching ways to enhance the natural habitats of our wildlife it was concluded that a fence excluding all pests and predators was the only effective way to achieve the objective. As a result, the 5.5 km boundary fence was erected which is 2 metres high and prevents both climbing and burrowing animals access to the property.
In addition to the fence and sanctuary sits a kiwi egg incubation facility, hatching over 100 kiwi chicks a season.
The golf course was built by the New Zealand government and officially opened in 1970. The course lies on 180 hectares of natural rolling countryside and was developed to meet the rigorous design standards required for world class championship competition.
Designed by legendary golf architect Tom Doak, the Cape Kidnappers par 71 golf course measures 7,147 yards (6,569 meters) and will challenge golfers of all skill levels. Completed in 2004, our spectacular New Zealand golf course has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf. Built on a ridge-and-valley landscape and with stunning sea views, Cape Kidnappers Golf Course plays high above the ocean atop dramatic cliffs.
Experience the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake and its icebergs, in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. A unique guided experience departing Aoraki/Mount Cook village. Board your MAC boat, and explore the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake, where you will discover the ever-changing ice face of the Glacier and icebergs, making each trip different from the last due to changing winds and currents. Knowledgeable guides, enhance your experience with their expertise and passion for this amazing alpine environment. Have you ever been alongside, discovered or touched an iceberg?
With a backdrop of 2,300 vertical metres of the Remarkables mountain range and an outstanding lake panorama, Jack’s Point Golf course is one of the most visually spectacular in the world.
The course measures 6,388 metres (6,986 yards) from the championship tees and is built on the most spectacular of Jack’s Point terrain. Designed in harmony with the natural environment, the course weaves through native tussock grasslands, dramatic rock outcrops, steep bluffs and swathes of native bush to the edge of Lake Wakatipu.
Soar over secluded alpine lakes, dramatic waterfalls, snow-covered mountain peaks, pristine glaciers and native beech forest. And just when you think the scenery can’t get any better; Milford Sound and Mitre Peak appear from over the rise.
Add a boat cruise along the fjord, an alpine landing or extended flying time to your scenic helicopter flight for the full Milford Sound experience.
One of the most magical golfing venues in the world, Millbrook’s two 18 hole courses have been brilliantly conceived and shaped from the rugged mountain landscape making it a breathtaking environment to tee off at with extraordinary photo opportunities at every turn.
With dramatic backdrops of the Remarkables and Coronet Peak, the Coronet 18 sets a new standard for golfing excellence. Superb turf quality with fast and true greens seamlessly integrate into the landscape. Whether circuiting Millbrook’s mountain tarn or just soaking in the scenery, the experience is second to none.
Located between historic Arrowtown and stunning Lake Hayes, the Remarkables and Arrow nines have combined to form the Remarkables course. Fast and true greens, fine turf quality and spectacular 360 degree vistas combine to provide the golfing experience for which Millbrook is renowned.
As the name belies, ‘The City of Sails’ – as Auckland is fondly known – is a stunning sea side city. The city centre surrounds a large harbour that bustles with life, both on water and on land. In the Auckland region, the North Island is geographically narrow and the city straddles a slim piece of land with coastline facing both the Pacific Ocean, and, on the wild West Coast, the Tasman Sea. Boutique shopping, pulsing, Pacific-inspired markets and a passionate cafe culture make this city a charming place to visit.
Just 35 minutes by ferry from Auckland, across the beautiful Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island seems a million miles away in pace and beauty. Waiheke has a special charm and seaside holiday atmosphere. Waiheke Island is an eclectic mix of cultures, activities, vineyards, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, beautiful beaches, scenic walking tracks and much, much more. It’s a perfect relaxing start or finish to your New Zealand vacation. There are many outdoor activities and plenty to see and do, no matter what your interests or energy levels.
How to get there:
Arrive in Waiheke by passenger ferry, car ferry or by air with flights direct from Auckland Domestic Airport, or by helicopter from City Heliport at Mechanics Bay
A subtropical wonderland of secluded bays, islands and history, the Bay of Islands is a coastal paradise. Get out on the water with a boat cruise or sailing charter and spot dolphins and whales frolicking in the water before seeing the Hole in the Rock, just off Cape Brett, up close. Stroll the streets of Russell, New Zealand’s first capital, and soak up its whaling and pioneering past. Learn about the birth of New Zealand in Waitangi, where the treaty that made New Zealand a British colony was signed.
Rotorua is surrounded by steaming lakes, bubbling hot pools and bursting geysers, host to some of the world’s most incredible natural forces. A heartland of Maori culture, the local people have embraced this turbulent land. For the traveller there is a breadth of attractions – families will enjoy viewing farm attractions and native wildlife, adventure seekers can experience world class white water rafting or mountain biking, while culture enthusiasts can experience indepth vibrant Maori traditions.
Impressive is the word best used to describe Lake Taupo; after all, it is the biggest volcanic crater in the World! Lake Taupo is set amidst clean, green countryside, spectacular mountain scenery, beautiful native bush and some of the largest pine forests in the Southern Hemisphere. Taupo offers many leisure activities including exploring the lake by boat for scenery or fishing; view the mighty Huka Falls or visit local geothermal sites with natural hot pools and springs, steaming craters and boiling mud pools.
Christchurch is the city of exploration, where urban regeneration and heritage thrive. The city is constantly evolving, always giving locals and visitors something new to explore. Expect street art and innovative projects, a bustling hospitality scene and established green spaces. Christchurch is the newest city in the world, and it’s time the world rediscovered its secrets.The central city is filled with cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand. The Avon River intersects the city, bringing a natural landscape to the urban environment.
MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK
Mt Cook National Park is known for its exquisite alpine beauty and is home to the highest mountain in New Zealand, Mt Cook. Its Maori name, ‘Aoraki’ means ‘cloud piercer’ and at 12,016ft (3,755m) it towers above the surrounding snow-covered peaks in the park. A third of the park is covered in permanent ice and snow and the mighty Tasman Glacier is the longest glacier outside of the polar regions. This is the very heart and soul of a World Heritage and National Park wilderness playground. Ice, snow, hidden valleys, lakes and glaciers offer golden opportunities for discovery, relaxation and adventure.
Queenstown, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the magnificent Southern Alps, is New Zealand’s most celebrated destination. Offering a wealth of accommodation to suit all travellers, there is huge diversity in the experiences to be enjoyed – from adrenaline activities such as bungee jumps and sky diving, adventurous excursions like jet-boating and hiking through to superb golf, gourmet food and wine tours, alpine tours and hiking.
Moody Dramatic and Stunning – Milford Sound is simply stunning. Milford Sound offers what is probably the most spectacular fiord scenery in the southern hemisphere, and the well-known and striking views of Mitre Peak from the head of the fiord form the subject of innumerable paintings, postcards, posters, and pictorial postage stamps. Whatever the fiord’s mood, teeming with rain or with sun glistening on deep water, it will inspire you.
