The Taupo nine - tailormade for a world-class golfing experience

When you're golfing the Taupo nine, expect to find some of New Zealand's most iconic courses right through to an easy, fun nine-hole and plenty in-between. Almost all are nestled in lakeside locations.

The Kinloch Club Golf Course

Designed by one of the greatest thinkers of the game, Jack Nicklaus, The Kinloch Club Golf Course is consistently among the top courses in New Zealand and the world. It is often compared to the link courses of Scotland with its undulating fairways, dunes, and trees skirting the pristine course. In 2014, the Kinloch Club Golf Course was ranked number one in New Zealand. It measures over 6,400 metres on championship tees, challenging the keen golfer with difficult holes and stunning views of Lake Taupo. After a game, relish the panoramic views while tucking into seasonal favourites at the Course-side Café. 

Kinloch Village Golf Club

Want to continue your game? Head to the Kinloch Village Golf Club, which sits right outside the championship level Kinloch Golf Club. Simply deposit green fees in a dropbox at the entrance to this small 10-hole course and start a new game. 

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary

Since 1970, Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary has been a long-standing favourite among Kiwi golfers. Voted the best golf course in New Zealand in 2010, the course contains more than 6,000 meters of undulating fairways and beautiful greens, embedded into the countryside. With a strong focus on conservation, the course provides a predator-free sanctuary for wildlife. It is host to a creche facility for kiwi chicks and a home for retired breeding takahe – two of New Zealand’s most iconic native birds. Expect to find fallow deer, Pekin ducks, colourful pheasants, meandering streams and waterfalls while strolling the fairways. The Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is a unique golfing experience and a must-play on any golf itinerary. 

Taupo Golf Club

A 20-minute drive from The Kinloch Golf Club and a 10-minute drive from Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary, Taupo Golf Club holds two distinct golfing experiences. Tauhara has been a historic staple in the Taupo golf scene, since opening in 1928 as a nine-hole course. Now a full 18-hole course, Tauhara is the ideal setting to catch up and chat during a leisurely social or corporate game. On the other hand, Centennial holds “one of the most intimidating finishing holes in the country.” Designed by PGA Championship winner, Ernie Southerden, Centennial is a classic inland course with challenging holes, protected greens, and strategic bunkers.

Wairakei Resort Nine-Hole Golf Course

Part of Wairakei Resort Taupo and down the road from Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary, this nine-hole course is open to both resort guests and the public. Enjoy a fun round on the 34-par course and afterwards, meet family and friends at the 19th Hole Bar.

Turangi Golf Club

Situated at the mouth of an ancient volcano, Turangi Golf Club is located near the hub of year-round trout fishing and an easy drive from three neighbouring ski fields. It is the perfect course for an early morning round followed by an afternoon on the slopes or an evening fish on the river. 

Mangakino Golf Club

Just north of Kinloch, Mangakino Golf Club is a flat, undulating golf course. While it is classified as a nine-hole course, there is a distinct 9th and 18th hole to make up 18 complete holes if you’re looking for a longer game. Stop in anytime as the course is open all day with an honesty box to pay green fees.

Reporoa Golf Club

Well maintained and loved by local players, this is an easy walking 18-hole course. With over 5500 meters and an average par of 71, the open fairways can be deceptive so be prepared to challenge your handicap at the Repora Golf Club.