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Nestled beside the calm waters of Hokowhitu Lagoon, Manawatū Golf Club proudly holds the title of New Zealand’s oldest golf club situated on its original course, opening in April 1895.

"We pride ourselves on having some of the best greens in the country,” General Manager James Lovegrove says. PGA Tour member and proud club member Tim Wilkinson compared them with some of the finest courses he has played on the tour in the US. Each hole brings its own magic. “We’ve had people suggest that the sixth is the hardest par 4 in the country. The 10th is next to the lagoon and has an elevated green, so it can catch you out if your head’s not in the game. And the 12th is our most risk-and-reward hole, I think. It’s our most modern hole, with it being altered when the old Teachers College was developed.”

Visitors are welcome to book a tee time and make the most of everything the club has to offer.

“We have reciprocal arrangements with a number of clubs both in New Zealand and overseas, and we’re also part of the 1895 Club. It’s a good idea to check our website or give us a call before you visit to make the most of these benefits if applicable,” Wilkinson says. The club hosts a range of tournaments, from the Matariki Ambrose to the Manawatū Open to the Par 3 Competition, which are all open to visitors. It is looking to the future, too, with plans for a digital driving range experience – a first for the Central North Island. If that goes ahead, it will be a huge addition to the region’s golfing experiences.

Palmerston North Golf Club captures the soul of classic New Zealand golf. Established in 1930, this course invites you to challenge your game while embracing the landscape.

General Manager Tama Tanerau highlights the 16th as the course’s signature hole.

“The tee shot soars over water, so accuracy is demanded from the start. It's the kind of hole that leaves your heart racing, for better or worse.”

The club welcomes visitors to book a tee time and to experience all it has to offer.

“It’s worth noting that we have relationships with several clubs around the country, from reciprocal rights to discounted green fees. Check our website to find out more.

Just a five-minute drive from the city, Orlando Country Club is changing the way people experience golf. It’s fast, fun and proudly local.

Originating from the vision of the Lourie family, it’s not a traditional golf course, as co-founder Gus Lourie explains. “We opened as a venue and always knew we were going to include a driving range. But when the opportunity arose to develop a golf course, we embraced it.” Renowned Irish golf-course architect Tommy Cushnahan was brought in to design the initial layout.

The golf course is now the project of Gus’ son Henry. “We’re the only 9-hole golf course in the region. It’s currently a variety of par 3s and 4s and we’re in the process of creating two new par 5s,” Henry says. The experience is a dynamic, shorter game that can be completed in just over an hour – perfect for beginners, families, or anyone wanting to sneak in a quick round in a stress-free environment.

Family is at the heart of Orlando Country Club, Gus says. “We want to cater to everyone. We’re a family-run business and love to see people bring their young ones in to have their first hit and fall in love with the game. Plus, with our café, bar and easily accessible driving range, it’s truly a one-stop destination for all.” While Orlando operates on a greenfee basis - meaning there are no members – it is sometimes closed for private events such as weddings and conferences, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

Rangatira Golf Course: Living the rural dream

Just under an hour from Palmy, Rangatira Golf Club is nestled between State Highway 1 and the Rangitīkei River, offering one of the most scenic rounds in the country.

Vice President Barry Lampp explains that this hidden gem is not so hidden anymore. “We’re noticing people from all over the country are coming to play. We had the Bunker Boys come and do a video for their social media channels and the bookings went through the roof. We’ve also been on the verge of making Golf New Zealand’s top 40 courses, so it’s great to know we are that highly regarded nationally.”

With three terraced sections and panoramic views, it offers something for everyone. “It’s not a hard course to play. If you’re after some fun, the seventh is a fan favourite, a par 5 that goes alongside the road and is right by the clubhouse.”

The range

If you’re visiting Palmy, don’t be afraid to branch out and experience one of the many welcoming courses accessible within an hour’s drive.