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Best Golf Courses in New Zealand | Wairakei International Golf Course
Wairakei International Golf Course | Bird Sanctuary NZ | Private Golf Lessons
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Many find sanctuary on a golf course, but it is rare to find a golf course that is a sanctuary - Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is thought to have scored a world first! Skilfully designed to blend with the natural rolling countryside and developed to meet the rigorous design standards for world class championship competition. 

Officially opened February 1970 by the Tourist Hotel Corporation.  Special guests including the Minister of Tourism Hon. H. J Walker were invited to an exhibition match followed by a celebratory luncheon.  Today, the basic layout of the golf course remains true to the original design of Commander John Harris, Michael Wolveridge and Peter Thomson.  Ownership has changed but the drive to provide a world class golfing experience continues.  There have been many enhancements to the golf course environment including a strong focus on conservation and providing a predator free sanctuary for wildlife. 

Since 2012, Wairakei has worked closely with the Department of Conservation to develop conservation and restoration opportunities for native birds and wildlife to thrive. This includes using the predator free environment as a creche for kiwi chicks and a retirement home for retired breeding takahe.  The takahe pairs have enjoyed sanctuary life so much there have been takahe chicks in the last few years.  A variety of wildlife flourish within the sanctuary, mixed colour pheasants, guinea fowl, pekin ducks, fallow deer and a pair of karearea (NZ Falcon) that have nested and raised their chicks for many years. 

Early 2020, Wairakei celebrated 50 years and the completion of a robust green restoration project.  The magnificent putting surface of the new greens complement the beauty of the course and sanctuary environment. Navigate your way through 18 testing holes of exceptional beauty.  Listen to the cacophony of birdlife, the meandering streams, and delightful waterfalls … 

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is a truly unique golfing experience that cannot be missed.

Visit Our Pro Shop

At Wairakei we have a fully stocked Pro Shop with leading brands like Callaway, Greyson Clothing, Kjus, Peter Millar, Footjoy, Oakley, and more. An excellent selection of mens and ladies Wairakei branded clothing, caps and visors. A variety of shoes, golf balls, putters, bags and accessories are also on offer. Everything a golfer needs.

We sell gift vouchers that can be purchased for specific items, such as an 18 hole green fee, Wairakei cap or a half hour golf lesson. If you can't decide on an item, vouchers can also be purchased for any nominated dollar value for the recipient to choose their gift. Vouchers are valid for one year from date of purchase and we can post them to the buyer or recipient. Please give us a call, send an email or drop in to see us.

Wairakei Golf Course | Private Golf Lessons | Golf Schools | Best Golf Courses in NZ
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The Wairakei Experience

It's all about the experience, and when you arrive at Wairakei it is our aim to make your golfing experience a memorable one.

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Google review - Cheezo

Absolutely stunning and beautiful course that proposes both challenges and enjoyment. It’s incredible scenic with very nice flora and fauna around the course. The staff were incredibly hospitable, and the course was in mint condition. The food from the bar after our round was also incredibly delicious giving us something to look forward to after our round. This is an experience I will never forget, and I hope I will be able to play this course again in my life.

Google review - Cheezo
Google review – F Inouye

A truly magnificent golf course! Set in a wildlife sanctuary the course is in impeccable shape and a joy to play. The staff are extremely friendly and upon checking in players can be provided ‘customised’ score cards with course handicap, suggested tees and slope rating. A nice touch! This was our second time playing and we chose to walk the course this time. Pace of play was perfect, and walking gave us the chance to see the entire course in all its beautiful flora and fauna! Certainly, worth every penny!!!

Google review – F Inouye
Google review – Norman Woods

Is Wairakei New Zealand’s Augusta? It’s a luxurious golfing experience that leaves you feeling special and spoilt. Attention to detail is evidently important at Wairakei; the attention to detail that the team show to the guests and the attention to detail on the course, all world class.

The visual beauty of the sanctuary continuously lulls you into a false sense of security, hiding the ongoing challenge of a brilliant, tough and testing meadowland layout.

Google review – Norman Woods
Facebook – Doogs Howe

Played Wairakei this morning (my 2nd time) has to be 1 of the most best-looking courses around. Perfect condition today 1st time shooting under 1 shot 3 under 69 but does help with bugger all wind. My favourite course I’ve played.

Facebook – Doogs Howe
Instagram – Trolleyboys

It’s been a while since the boys have been back out there. Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary – this course is an absolute gem. Worth every penny and more!

Instagram – Trolleyboys
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