A New Zealand South Island road trip is a must-do for any avid golfer. It’s the perfect place for PGA golf enthusiasts with spectacular championship golf courses dotting the island. What better way to explore the breathtaking vistas and stunning sites of the South Island along with its award-winning golf courses then with a self-drive from Christchurch to Queenstown? We’ve put together an itinerary highlighting the top 3 golfing hot-spots for those wishing to cross this one off their bucket list.
First stop: Christchurch
The perfect place to start your journey, Christchurch and the Canterbury region features an international airport and bustling CBD. Explore the vibrant city of Christchurch with its eclectic vibe, delicious eateries and beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens, head to Ashburton to try your hand at fly fishing or choose from the many outdoor activities available in Methven.
Credit: Up Up and Away
Where to golf: Clearwater Golf Club, Christchurch and Christchurch Golf Club
With a John Darby designed course, it’s no wonder Clearwater Golf Course has hosted some of the world’s best golfers, including Jason Dufner, Bubba Watson, Lucas Glover, Jason Day and Jimmy Walker. Slow down and enjoy the change of pace at this magnificent 18-hole course surrounded by glistening spring-fed lakes.
The second oldest club in New Zealand and the seventh oldest outside of the UK, The Christchurch Golf Club, at Shirley Links, is the perfect spot to practice your swing. Recent improvements include course upgrades and a new clubhouse following the February 2011 earthquake.
Credit: Gary Lisbon
Nestled on a sparkling lake just 15 minutes from the heart of Christchurch and a short drive to Christchurch Airport, Peppers Clearwater Resort is the ideal place to rest your head after a busy day of sightseeing or golfing. Enjoy a gourmet dinner at The Lakes Restaurant followed by a cocktail at The Sprig Bar and Café before retreating to your beautifully appointed suite or villa.
Just over 3 hours’ drive from Christchurch lies Lake Tekapo, with its turquoise water and backdrop of the Southern Alps. Visit the popular Church of the Good Shephard, view the spectacular show of the Southern Lights or put on your walking shoes for a stroll around the Mackenzie Basin.
Where to golf: The Cairns Golf Course, Lake Tekapo
To truly appreciate the stunning views of the Mackenzie Basin and Lake Tekapo region, book a tee time at The Cairns. The greens were naturally discovered with very little being altered to construct the course. Enjoy a challenging game of golf on this naturally beautiful course in Lake Tekapo.
Unwind and relax at Peppers Bluewater Resort, ideally located in Lake Tekapo with the Southern Alps on your doorstep. Dine on fresh, seasonal fare at Rakinui Restaurant & Bar for breakfast or dinner, book activities with the tour desk or cosy up by the fireplace in your spacious villa.
Another 3 hours’ drive from Lake Tekapo will land you in Queenstown – the adventure capital of the world, but also home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Queenstown sits on the shores of crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu with the Remarkables Mountain Range as a backdrop. Soak away in one of New Zealand’s hot spring pools, book a wine tour, visit nearby Arrowtown or venture to Glenorchy (AKA “middle-earth”), one of the Lord of the Rings filming locations.
Where to golf: Jack’s Point, The Hills Golf Club and Millbrook Queenstown
One of the most spectacularly stunning golf courses in the world, the 18-hole Jack’s Point Golf Course was built on dramatic terrain in a glacial valley, carefully considering the surrounding natural environment. Tee-off with views of the Remarkables Mountain Range and Lake Wakatipu in the background.
The Hills Golf Course is an exclusive golf club set amongst various lakes, waterways and outcrops, featuring impressive multi-million dollar sculptures. Enjoy a challenging game at this championship course set over 500 acres of land and don’t forget to check out the award-winning clubhouse while you’re there.
Set in a natural alpine amphitheatre surrounded by the Remarkables Mountain Range, Millbrook Golf Course offers an exciting game with a number of natural hazards including streams, trees and buildings, to name a few.
Credit: Graeme Murray
Just a stroll from the heart of Queenstown, Peppers Beacon overlooks Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain Range and offers stylish accommodation with underfloor heating and stunning views. Complete with a BBQ area, gym, sauna, Jacuzzi and breakfast lounge, it’s the perfect spot to begin or end your day.
Ready to book your New Zealand golf holiday? Click here.