The Golfing Highlights of New Zealand

Golf in New Zealand: Down-to-earth yet distinguished Play Golf surrounded by breathtaking scenery, from snow-capped mountains to stunning coastal vistas. New Zealand offers some of the world's most spectacular golf courses designed with the discerning golfer in mind. From sipping Central Otago Pinot Noir, enjoying our finest cuisine, heli-golfing, fly-fishing, or simply having a yarn with our friendly local guides, this once-in-a-lifetime trip will have you savoring all our beautiful country has to offer.

Starting at
$22,300
per person
14 Days
8 Rounds
4+ Persons
Rental / Transfers
The Golfing Highlights of New ZealandThe Golfing Highlights of New Zealand

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Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the New Zealand Golf Highlights tour, designed for the discerning golfer who cherishes luxury and elegance. Starting in Queenstown and ending at Kauri Cliffs, this tour showcases New Zealand's unique and spectacular scenery that changes dramatically from place to place. Begin at Jack's Point, nestled beneath the Remarkables, offering rugged beauty and pristine conditions. Travel north to Te Arai Links, where pristine dunes and challenging play await. Experience the dramatic cliffs and sweeping vistas of Cape Kidnappers, redefining the golfing experience. Conclude at Kauri Cliffs, with its stunning Pacific Ocean views and challenging fairways. Beyond golf, indulge in exclusive wine tastings at renowned vineyards, explore vibrant cities, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of New Zealand. Enjoy a Bay of Islands boat charter for a serene maritime adventure. This tour covers every bucket list activity, ensuring a once-in-a-lifetime trip to New Zealand, combining unparalleled golf with the best of the country’s sightseeing and scenery, and creating memories to last a lifetime.

Golf Courses

Rental golf clubs optional
Shared cart included
*includes Caddie + Tip at Te Arai Links x 2

Jacks Point
Jacks Point
Jacks Point
Jacks PointJacks Point
Millbrook Coronet
Millbrook Coronet
Millbrook Coronet
Millbrook CoronetMillbrook Coronet
Cape Kidnappers
Cape Kidnappers
Cape Kidnappers
Cape KidnappersCape Kidnappers
Kinloch
Kinloch
Kinloch
KinlochKinloch
Wairakei Golf and Sanctuary
Wairakei Golf and Sanctuary
Wairakei Golf and Sanctuary
Wairakei Golf and SanctuaryWairakei Golf and Sanctuary
Te Arai Links North
Te Arai Links North
Te Arai Links North
Te Arai Links NorthTe Arai Links North
Te Arai Links South
Te Arai Links South
Te Arai Links South
Te Arai Links SouthTe Arai Links South
Kauri Cliffs
Kauri Cliffs
Kauri Cliffs
Kauri CliffsKauri Cliffs

Accommodation

Breakfast Daily
Lunch at Amisfield Winery
Leaving Dinner in the Bay of Islands

Eagles Nest, Bay of Islands
Eagles Nest, Bay of Islands
Eagles Nest, Bay of Islands
Eagles Nest, Bay of Islands
Millbrook Resort
Millbrook Resort
Millbrook Resort
Millbrook Resort
The Dairy Private Hotel
The Dairy Private Hotel
The Dairy Private Hotel
The Dairy Private Hotel
Te Arai Links
Te Arai Links
Te Arai Links
Te Arai Links

Activities

Our industry experience means we have handpicked must-see activities at each stop. From the unmissable terrains of Milford Sounds to island hopping on a private yacht charter in the Bay of Islands. We customise all of our trips, so can easily personalise these activities to suit you. 

Hikes &  Walking Trails
Hikes & Walking Trails
Havelock North wine and sightseeing tour
Havelock North wine and sightseeing tour
Bay of Islands Sunset Cruise, Kauri Cliffs
Bay of Islands Sunset Cruise, Kauri Cliffs
Jet Boat, Queenstown Milford Sound – Ultimate, including heli-golf
Jet Boat, Queenstown Milford Sound – Ultimate, including heli-golf

Key Information

Pricing is based in NZD
Shoulder Season - October & April
High Season - November - March

Itinerary

Accommodation: 5 Star & Lodge Accommodation

  • 4 nights Millbrook, Arrowtown
  • 2 nights Porters Boutique, Havelock North
  • 2 nights at Kinloch Manor and Villas, Taupo
  • 3 nights The Suites at Te Arai Links
  • 3 Nights Eagles Nest, Russell
  • Full breakfast daily

Golf: 9 rounds of Championship Golf

  • Jacks Point
  • Millbrook Coronet
  • Cape Kidnappers
  • Kinloch Club
  • Wairakei International
  • Te Arai North
  • Te Arai South
  • Kauri Cliffs
  • Including cart

Tours and Activities:

  • Welcome dinner in Queenstown at Bunker
  • Milford Sounds Fly - Cruise - Fly Excursion
  • Jet boat tour
  • Queenstown Sights Tour
  • Lunch at Amisfield Winery
  • Napier Wine & Culture Tour, Napier
  • Private Boat Charter, Bay of Islands
  • Leaving dinner at Bay of Islands

Day 01
Arrive Queenstown Meet and Greet at Queenstown Airport
Day 02
Golf at Jacks Point
Day 03
Explore Central Otago
Day 04
Golf at Millbrook Coronet
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The Golfing Highlights of New Zealand

From
$22,300
per person
14 Days
8 Rounds
4+ Persons
Rental / Transfers
Enquire Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common queries about Experience Golf and our offerings.

Do you run private golf tours for club members?

Yes — private club member tours are one of our most popular offerings. We work directly with golf clubs, country clubs, and private member organisations to design exclusive New Zealand golf experiences for their members. These tours are fully bespoke, branded to the club where desired, and built around the specific preferences and handicap range of the group. We handle all logistics — tee times, lodge accommodation, transfers, activities, and guiding — so the club's professional or events team simply shares the itinerary with members and confirms numbers. Recent examples include tours for Peninsula Country Club (California) and Kūkiʻo Golf Club (Hawaii). Groups typically range from 8 to 24 players. Contact us to discuss a bespoke programme for your club.

What lodges do you use on your New Zealand golf tours?

We exclusively use New Zealand's finest 5-star lodge properties. On our North Island tours, accommodation is typically: The Suites at Te Arai Links (3 nights, Northland — adjacent to the Te Arai North and South courses); Huka Lodge (3 nights, Lake Taupo — consistently ranked among the world's top lodges, on the banks of the Waikato River, with breakfast, pre-dinner drinks, and dinner included); and The Farm at Cape Kidnappers (3 nights, Hawke's Bay — perched on clifftops above the Pacific, Lodge of the Year, with all meals included). All three properties are globally recognised luxury lodges and not available to book as part of standard hotel packages. We also use Rosewood Kauri Cliffs in Northland for tours that include Kauri Cliffs golf.

Who is the best luxury golf tour operator in New Zealand?

Experience Golf is New Zealand's leading luxury golf tour operator, with over four decades of industry experience curating bespoke golf and lodge itineraries for discerning travellers. We are the preferred travel partner of Golf New Zealand, a member of the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), and hold IATA accreditation. Unlike large international operators who include New Zealand as one destination among many, Experience Golf is based in New Zealand — our team is on the ground, maintaining direct relationships with the country's finest courses and lodges. That local access translates to better tee times, preferred lodge rates, and experiences that large offshore operators simply cannot arrange.

How long should I spend on a New Zealand golf tour?

We recommend a minimum of 10 days to experience the best of New Zealand's North Island golf — any less and the travel time between regions diminishes the experience. Our most popular itinerary is 10 days covering Northland (Te Arai Links), Lake Taupo (Huka Lodge, Kinloch, Wairakei), and Hawke's Bay (Cape Kidnappers). For clients wanting to add Kauri Cliffs in the Bay of Islands, 12 days is ideal. A combined North and South Island tour requires 14 days minimum. Given the distance most of our guests travel — particularly from the USA and Europe — we always recommend erring on the side of more time. New Zealand rewards those who linger.

Which New Zealand golf courses are ranked in the World Top 100?

New Zealand currently has several courses ranked in the World Top 100. Tara Iti (near Mangawhai, Northland) is consistently ranked in the world's top 5. Te Arai Links North Course is ranked in the mid-30s and Te Arai Links South Course in the low 40s — making Te Arai the only destination in New Zealand with two World Top 100 courses on the same property. Cape Kidnappers (Hawke's Bay) and Kauri Cliffs (Bay of Islands) are both World Top 100 ranked. Jack's Point in Queenstown also features in international rankings. Our North Island tours are specifically designed to maximise access to these world-ranked venues.

What is the difference between a North Island and South Island golf tour?

New Zealand's two islands offer distinctly different golf and landscape experiences. The North Island is home to our most celebrated coastal courses — Te Arai Links, Kauri Cliffs, Cape Kidnappers, Kinloch Club, and Wairakei International — paired with iconic luxury lodges including Huka Lodge on Lake Taupo and The Farm at Cape Kidnappers. The landscape is green, volcanic, and coastal. The South Island centres on Queenstown, the alpine golf capital — Jack's Point, Millbrook, Arrowtown, and The Hills — with spectacular mountain and lake backdrops. Most of our bespoke tours focus on the North Island as it contains the higher concentration of world-ranked courses. A 14-day combined North and South Island tour is the ultimate New Zealand golf experience.

Can you get access to Tara Iti without being a member?

Tara Iti is consistently ranked among the top 5 golf courses in the world and is one of the most exclusive — it is a private members club and access is strictly by invitation from a member. As a preferred golf tour operator and IAGTO member operating in New Zealand for over four decades, we maintain relationships that occasionally allow access for our clients, though we cannot guarantee it and never overstate our ability to secure it. For clients seeking a world-ranked private course experience, we include Te Arai Links North and South (both ranked in the World Top 100) on all North Island tours, which offer a comparable level of design quality and exclusivity without the access constraints of Tara Iti.

How does Cape Kidnappers compare to Kauri Cliffs?

Both are world Top 100 courses and essential inclusions on any serious New Zealand golf tour — but they offer very different experiences. Cape Kidnappers, designed by Tom Doak, sits on dramatic clifftops 140 metres above the Pacific in Hawke's Bay. It is a wider, more open course that rewards strategic play — the clifftop holes on the back nine are among the most spectacular in the world. Kauri Cliffs, in the Bay of Islands, is a more intimate coastal course with 15 holes boasting ocean views over the Pacific and offshore islands. It rewards shot-making and course management. We typically play Cape Kidnappers twice on our North Island tours given its length and variety. Most of our guests rate both equally — they are complementary rather than comparable.

How much does a luxury New Zealand golf tour cost?

Our bespoke luxury New Zealand golf tours typically range from NZD $15,000 to $40,000+ per person, depending on duration, courses, and lodge choices. A 10-day North Island itinerary staying at Huka Lodge, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, and The Suites at Te Arai Links — with 7 world-class rounds including heli-golf to Kauri Cliffs — sits in the NZD $25,000–$35,000 range per person. Pricing includes all green fees, luxury lodge accommodation, daily breakfast, pre-dinner drinks and dinner at Huka Lodge and The Farm, luxury vehicle transfers, and all activities. International flights are additional. Every tour is bespoke — contact us for a tailored quote.

What is the best time of year to golf in New Zealand?

November through April is the prime window for golf in New Zealand — long daylight hours, warm temperatures, and courses in peak condition. November is particularly special: the North Island is green, dry, and uncrowded, which is why we schedule tours like our Kūkiʻo Members' Tour in November. December through February is high summer and ideal for the South Island — Queenstown and the surrounding region are at their best. March and April offer excellent autumn conditions with fewer visitors. We generally avoid May through August for international tours as the South Island winter can be unpredictable, though the North Island (Cape Kidnappers, Kauri Cliffs, Te Arai) is playable year-round.

Are you accredited by any professional organizations?

Yes, Experience Golf is proud to be the preferred travel partner of Golf New Zealand. We are also members of the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), ensuring the highest standards of service and reliability.

What if I have a medical condition or disability?

We strive to accommodate all guests, including those with medical conditions or disabilities. Please inform us of any specific requirements when booking so we can make the necessary arrangements to ensure your comfort and safety.

Can you assist with travel arrangements such as flights and visas?

While our primary focus is on golf tours, we can assist with travel arrangements such as flights and visas upon request. We also offer private jet services for the ultimate luxury experience. Please contact our customer service team for more information.

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions and special requests?

Yes, we accommodate dietary restrictions and special requests. Please inform us of any specific needs when booking, and we will ensure your requirements are met.

Can I add extra rounds of golf to my tour?

Yes, you can add extra rounds of golf to your tour. Simply let us know your preferences when booking, and we will arrange additional rounds for you.

Do you offer tours that include activities other than golf?

Yes, many of our tours include additional activities such as wine tasting, boat charters, cultural experiences, and adventure sports. These activities are designed to complement your golfing experience and provide a well-rounded vacation.

What are some of the top golf courses included in your tours?

Our tours feature some of New Zealand's top golf courses, including Jack's Point, Kauri Cliffs, Te Arai Links, Kinloch, and Wairakei. Each course offers a unique golfing experience set against stunning natural backdrops.

What is your cancellation policy?

Our cancellation policy varies depending on the tour and timing of the cancellation. Please refer to the specific terms and conditions provided at the time of booking for detailed information.

What is the payment policy for your tours?

A deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your spot. The remaining balance is typically due 60 days before the tour start date. We offer various payment methods, including Stripe, Visa, and Amex, for your convenience.

How do I book a golf tour with Experience Golf?

You can book a golf tour directly through our website or by contacting our customer service team. We are here to assist you with any questions and help you choose the best tour for your needs.

What makes Tara Iti special, and can you arrange access?

Tara Iti is one of the world's most exclusive golf courses, known for its breathtaking coastal views and impeccable design. While it is a private course and we cannot guarantee access, we can arrange for you to play at other top-rated courses nearby that offer equally stunning experiences.

Can non-golfers join the tours?

Absolutely! Non-golfers are welcome to join our tours. We provide various activities and excursions for non-golfers, ensuring everyone can enjoy their time in New Zealand.

What is included in your golf tour packages?

Our golf tour packages typically include luxury accommodation, green fees, some meals, and luxury transfers. We also offer additional services such as private jets and exclusive experiences. Specific inclusions may vary by tour, so please check the detailed itinerary for each package.

Who are your tours designed for?

Our tours are designed for golfers of all skill levels who seek a luxurious and memorable golfing experience. Whether you are a novice or an expert, we create customized tours to meet your specific needs and preferences.

Why do I need a travel agent in New Zealand?

Having a travel agent in New Zealand ensures local expertise, seamless arrangements, and immediate assistance. Our team is on the ground all over the country, ready to provide support and insider knowledge to enhance your travel experience.

What makes Experience Golf the leading golf travel specialist in New Zealand?

Experience Golf caters to the discerning golf traveler, offering bespoke golf tours that include luxury transfers, access to the best golf courses, and personalized services. As New Zealand's leading travel provider, we ensure a world-class golfing experience with our expertise and attention to detail.

What is included in a typical golf tour package?

Our golf tour packages typically include luxury accommodation, green fees, some meals, and luxury transfers. We also offer additional services such as private jets and exclusive experiences. Specific inclusions may vary by tour, so please check the detailed itinerary for each package.

Can’t find what you are looking for?

Contact our expert team for more information.

How it works

Crafting Unforgettable Golf Vacations

Embarking on your dream golf vacation with Experience Golf is simple and seamless. Here's how our process works:

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Start planning your luxury golf tour today!

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1
Consultation

Reach out to us to discuss your preferences and trip details.

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2
Bespoke Itinerary

Our team creates a bespoke itinerary tailored to your needs.

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3
Customization

Your trip is fully customizable to suit your preferences and budget.

0
0.5
Start planning your luxury golf tour today!

0
1
Consultation

Reach out to us to discuss your preferences and trip details.

0
2
Bespoke Itinerary

Our team creates a bespoke itinerary tailored to your needs.

0
3
Customization

Your trip is fully customizable to suit your preferences and budget.

See what our clients have to say

Hear from our clients unforgettable experiences with Experience Golf. From stunning courses to impeccable service, read their testimonials below:

13 Days
9 Rounds
By taking care of all the details including the last-minute changes, Jono arranged it all so we can Experience golf heaven on earth.
Charlie Whang
New Zeland
Image Alt Text
14 Days
10 Rounds
We just returned from New Zealand on a trip organized by Experience Golf. It was by and far the most enjoyable trip we ever took with every detail professionally cared for in a manner that far exceeded our expectations. We are already planning our next trip and can assure you that we will look for Experience Golf to once again be our guide knowing that it will be a first class trip with no detail overlooked.
Glen King
Blackhawk Country Club - California
Image Alt Text
13 Days
9 Rounds
Many thanks for the trip for my brothers and I to Pebble Beach. We had a fantastic time. The Spanish Inn is the right place to stay. Great atmosphere.
Murray
Pebble Beach, USA
Image Alt Text
5,000+
Courses played
1,200+
Satisfied customers
14
Hole-in-one’s made

Jono, we so appreciate you taking time to meet us and transport us and ALL of our luggage to and from Tara Iti. We certainly feel like we got a taste of Melbourne and New Zealand. We were so impressed with the people and the land and the conservation efforts that are taken to keep New Zealand naturally beautiful. Ending the vacation with the most incredible Helicopter tour yesterday was the icing on the cake!

Wendy Sprintz Neinken
USA
Image Alt Text

Golf was truly spectacular, all 10 rounds occasionally surrounded by spectator sheep, trying to keep an eye on the ball from the competing peaks and valleys, noticing impact sound through crisp air bouncing off the sky. A memorable picnic at a snow capped mountain top during the Heli tour of the Milford sound, sailing catamaran cruise at the Bay of Islands with lovely Rainy and Neal, and surprisingly wonderful ATV tour of Kauri Cliffs were weaved in perfectly between the rounds.

Charlie Whang
New Zealand
Image Alt Text

By taking care of all the details including the last-minute changes, Jono arranged it all so we can Experience golf heaven on earth.

Charlie Whang
New Zeland
Image Alt Text

We just returned from New Zealand on a trip organized by Experience Golf. It was by and far the most enjoyable trip we ever took with every detail professionally cared for in a manner that far exceeded our expectations. We are already planning our next trip and can assure you that we will look for Experience Golf to once again be our guide knowing that it will be a first class trip with no detail overlooked.

Glen King
Blackhawk Country Club - California
Pebble Beach

Many thanks for the trip for my brothers and I to Pebble Beach. We had a fantastic time. The Spanish Inn is the right place to stay. Great atmosphere. The links at Spanish Bay was terrific, too good a course for me, but fantastic. Poopy Hills was really nice and a bit easier more like courses I was used to. Pebble Beach, what a course. Like you suggested the tee off was touch and go to finish, but we did finish all 18, although it was pretty dark putting on the 18th. The sea mist coming in was just about more of an issue at times, but really added to it all.

Murray
Pebble Beach, USA
Image Alt Text

Many thanks for the trip for my brothers and I to Pebble Beach. We had a fantastic time. The Spanish Inn is the right place to stay. Great atmosphere.

Murray
Pebble Beach, USA

Jono, we so appreciate you taking time to meet us and transport us and ALL of our luggage to and from Tara Iti. We certainly feel like we got a taste of Melbourne and New Zealand. We were so impressed with the people and the land and the conservation efforts that are taken to keep New Zealand naturally beautiful. Ending the vacation with the most incredible Helicopter tour yesterday was the icing on the cake!

Wendy Sprintz Neinken
USA
Image Alt Text

Golf was truly spectacular, all 10 rounds occasionally surrounded by spectator sheep, trying to keep an eye on the ball from the competing peaks and valleys, noticing impact sound through crisp air bouncing off the sky. A memorable picnic at a snow capped mountain top during the Heli tour of the Milford sound, sailing catamaran cruise at the Bay of Islands with lovely Rainy and Neal, and surprisingly wonderful ATV tour of Kauri Cliffs were weaved in perfectly between the rounds.

Charlie Whang
New Zealand
Image Alt Text

By taking care of all the details including the last-minute changes, Jono arranged it all so we can Experience golf heaven on earth.

Charlie Whang
New Zeland
Image Alt Text

We just returned from New Zealand on a trip organized by Experience Golf. It was by and far the most enjoyable trip we ever took with every detail professionally cared for in a manner that far exceeded our expectations. We are already planning our next trip and can assure you that we will look for Experience Golf to once again be our guide knowing that it will be a first class trip with no detail overlooked.

Glen King
Blackhawk Country Club - California
Pebble Beach

Many thanks for the trip for my brothers and I to Pebble Beach. We had a fantastic time. The Spanish Inn is the right place to stay. Great atmosphere. The links at Spanish Bay was terrific, too good a course for me, but fantastic. Poopy Hills was really nice and a bit easier more like courses I was used to. Pebble Beach, what a course. Like you suggested the tee off was touch and go to finish, but we did finish all 18, although it was pretty dark putting on the 18th. The sea mist coming in was just about more of an issue at times, but really added to it all.

Murray
Pebble Beach, USA
Image Alt Text

Many thanks for the trip for my brothers and I to Pebble Beach. We had a fantastic time. The Spanish Inn is the right place to stay. Great atmosphere.

Murray
Pebble Beach, USA
the ultimate luxury golf adventure

Start planning your luxury golf tour today