Travel bucket list idea:
Set on a rugged stretch of land wedged in a sheep station and a range of mighty cliffs, this golf course was designed to be New Zealand’s version of Pebble Beach.
It’s beautifully positioned and the back nine – laid out along several fingers of land separated by deep gullies that fall into the sea below – is easily one of the most dramatic stretches of holes you’ll ever play. Along the par-5 15th – the aptly named Pirate’s Plank – is the sign everyone should pay heed to: ‘Danger: Cliffs.’ Go left and long and the ball has a long fall before reaching the water.
And don’t let the simplicity of the place fool you: a huge amount of care and attention has gone into its design.
The course is 10 miles southeast of Hastings. If you arrive into Napier, there’s a helicopter transfer direct into the property. Book your tee time well in advance; guests staying at one of the lodges have preferential tee times.
The course is open all year round, seven days a week, but the southern summer (October to April) is peak season and when you’ll find the best weather.
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
Spectacular landscapes, impeccable fairways and greens, brilliantly-designed holes and plenty of golfing folklore – we asked golf expert and journalist Fionn Davenport to recommend his top 30 golf courses from around the world.
