Take a swing at New Zealand’s golf courses

For those that golf regularly, the thought of playing a round becomes a little like a craving that won’t go away until you satisfy it. Even for fair weather golfers, all it takes is one good game and they’re dreaming of their next round.

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It’s always a sad day when the weather gets colder, snow begins to fall and you know that it’s time to put the clubs away for the winter. But the good thing is, as we’re packing up for the winter, they are just getting started in New Zealand. With over 400 courses in the country, you can always find many that match your skill level, your sightseeing itinerary and your budget. When most people think of New Zealand, they think of majestic mountains, ocean vistas, old growth forests, excellent wine and maybe even bungy jumping. Now you can add golf courses to the list; New Zealand really is a golfer’s paradise. It also helps that the courses aren’t crowded, the green fees are very reasonable, and that the Canadian dollar goes far there. For those looking to hit championship courses without breaking your budget (you want to have a few dollars left for a local microbrew or glass of Sauvignon blanc, after all), there are some great deals to be had. Until March 30, 2011, for approximately $218, you can purchase the Canterbury Resort Golf Pass and play 18 holes, with cart at three courses: Clearwater (home to the NZ PGA Championship), Terrace Downs Resort (one of the top courses in NZ), and Pegasus Golf Course (home to 2010 NZ Women’s Open). Passes can be purchased at any of the three courses’ pro shops. Visit website for details. For golf enthusiasts wanting to experience some of the best championship golf in the world, New Zealand is home to two of Golf Digest’s World Top 50 ranked courses. The Tom Doak designed Cape Kidnappers is home to the NBC broadcasted Kiwi Challenge, which Anthony Kim won in 2009. The dramatic cliffs that drop into the ocean, the severe bunkers and complex greens will test your skills and your nerve. Designed by David Harman, Kauri Cliffs has 15 holes with ocean views with six on a cliff top that plunges into the sea. Rates at both of these extremely challenging yet scenic courses are approximately $300 from October to April. For those that really want to test their swing, check out the game of golfcross. The goal at the end of the hole is to hit your oval shaped ball through goalposts. For both golf and rugby fans, this is a fun blend of both sports. Visit website for more information and the locations of the four courses in New Zealand.

5 Secrets to Great Golf Scores in New Zealand;

• Don’t break your back carrying your clubs to the airport, to the rental car, to the hotel, etc. Leave your clubs at home and rent top name brands at the courses. (Clubs are available at most courses.)
• Ensure your golf shoes are clean from dirt and grass to get them through customs and immigration.
• Rules allow for 14 clubs in your bag. Take 15. You’re on vacation – who’s counting?
• Try golfing right after bungy jumping. The adrenalin will help with your tee shots.
• Don’t try golfing right after a wine tasting. It won’t help with your tee shots.

For more information about golfing in New Zealand, please visit website and use the search word “golf.”