Wairakei Golf Club

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary, often regarded as one of New Zealand’s finest golf courses, is located just outside of Taupo, on the North Island. Known for its lush surroundings, championship-level course design, and unique wildlife sanctuary, Wairakei offers an unparalleled golfing experience in a peaceful, natural environment.

1. Course Design

• Architect: Wairakei was designed by renowned New Zealand golf course architect Commander John Harris, in collaboration with Michael Wolveridge and Peter Thomson, and opened in 1970. The course is known for its strategic layout that harmonizes with the natural contours of the land.
• Layout: The course is a par-72, stretching over 7,065 yards (6,460 meters) from the championship tees. It features tree-lined fairways, natural hazards, and large, undulating greens. The design requires accuracy, especially off the tee, with bunkers and water hazards strategically placed throughout the course. The layout is both challenging and scenic, offering a true test of golf in a serene setting.
• Fairways and Greens: The fairways are wide and rolling, while the greens are large and fast, often requiring a sharp short game to navigate the subtle breaks.

2. Unique Wildlife Sanctuary

• Sanctuary Experience: In 2011, Wairakei transformed into a wildlife sanctuary, making it one of the only golf courses in the world to be fully enclosed by a predator-proof fence. This fence helps protect native New Zealand birds and wildlife. The sanctuary adds to the charm of the course, with golfers often encountering native species like kiwi birds, pheasants, and fallow deer while playing.
• Conservation Focus: The sanctuary is part of an ongoing conservation project, and the course management prioritizes ecological sustainability, blending golf with wildlife protection. This makes Wairakei a standout not only for its golfing experience but also for its role in preserving New Zealand’s natural heritage.

3. Setting

• Taupo Volcanic Plateau: The course is nestled in the volcanic plateau of the central North Island, providing a striking landscape with dense native flora, geothermal activity in the area, and nearby mountain ranges. The peaceful and lush parkland setting enhances the overall experience, offering golfers scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere.
• Flora: The course is surrounded by native trees and exotic plants, giving it a parkland-style feel. Combined with its wildlife sanctuary, the natural beauty of Wairakei is an essential part of its charm.

4. Facilities

• Clubhouse: Wairakei offers a comfortable and welcoming clubhouse with full facilities. There’s a pro shop stocked with golf equipment and apparel, as well as a restaurant serving fresh, local cuisine for golfers to enjoy after their round.
• Practice Facilities: The club includes a driving range, putting greens, and chipping areas for golfers to practice before playing the course.
• Accommodation: While Wairakei itself does not have on-site lodging, its proximity to Taupo means there are plenty of nearby accommodation options, from luxury lodges to more casual stays.

5. Course Reputation

• Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is consistently ranked as one of New Zealand's top golf courses and is often listed among the world's best in terms of its unique blend of golf and nature. Its challenging yet fair layout, combined with the pristine natural environment, makes it a must-play for golfers visiting the Taupo region.
• The combination of Wairakei's long-standing reputation as a championship-level course and its commitment to environmental preservation through the sanctuary makes it a unique golfing destination.

6. Tournaments

• Wairakei has hosted various prestigious tournaments over the years, further cementing its status as a top-tier golfing destination in New Zealand.

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is renowned not only for its challenging and beautifully designed golf course but also for its integration into a thriving wildlife sanctuary, making it a truly unique experience for golfers and nature enthusiasts alike.