Spoilt for Choice

While a number of countries may lay claim to being "a golfer's paradise", none can match the variety, accessibility, and scenery of New Zealand's golf courses. Since the Hanmer Springs Golf Club was founded in 1911, golf courses have been developed in all cities and most rural communities throughout the country.

This 18 hole course is situated in a high country basin, 385m above sea level. As well as the manicured fairways and greens, the Hanmer Springs Golf Course boasts some of North Canterbury's finest scenery. If not for the challenging course then come and play for the spectacular mountain views, wide open spaces and the freedom of crowds and city noise.

With a population of less than 4 million, New Zealand has a course for every 10,000 people. Except for the larger city clubs, it's possible to walk onto most golf courses and play without booking in advance (we do advise you ring and book though, just in case!). Green fees for overseas visitors vary from as little as NZ $25.00 for Non Affiliated NZ members to $20.00 for Affiliated for 9-hole rural courses to NZ$25.00 Affiliated for the top resort courses with an average cost of about $35 a round for Non Affiliated for a full 18 holes. Golf carts and hire clubs are usually available at the club house.

The reasons are abundantly clear - our courses and conditions test all facets of a golfer's ability. Play well here and you can hold your head up anywhere the game of golf is played. Good grass growth means lush rough - undulations are often hills - sand is freely available - and prevailing winds occasionally reach gale force.

But most of the time golf in New Zealand is delightful. The weather is warm and calm, the fairways smooth and flat, the greens soft and true, and above all else the views are magnificent.

Unlike many northern hemisphere countries, golf is played all year round in New Zealand with the major club competition season generally running from March to November to coincide with peak times of grass growth. While all clubs water their greens in summer many of the smaller clubs don't have fairway irrigation. Consequently, hard and dry conditions during hot summer months can see golfers hitting career best drives of over 300 yards! These courses are at their best during Spring and early Summer.

A key feature of many courses is the scenery. From views to spectacular snow-covered mountain backdrops, it's often difficult for golfers to concentrate on their games. And the serenity of country courses with native trees and bird life has its own special appeal. An unusual feature of some country courses is the use of sheep as fairway "mowers".

So if you feel that you have worked hard and have earned yourself time off come up and have a lovely relaxing time in our beautiful Alpine Village - don't travel the world, we have so must to offer you with a great range of activities.