Golf, one of our favourite hobbies, but one we tend to play once a year thanks to the shift in priorities once the little ones arrive on the scene. If you do get a chance to play, or even head away for weekend to play, have you considered New Zealand? There’s some truly incredible courses there which are well worth the short flight, and some awesome places to stay.
They may be our smaller neighbour but one thing Kiwis ace, is being home to some of the most challenging, yet breathtaking golf courses that enthusiasts around the globe can only dream of having the opportunity to play.
Golf’s popularity is on the rise, with Airbnb data showing that there has been an over 65% growth in listings in the golf category in New Zealand from 2022 to 2023 and over 60% in bookings. Australia has seen over 95% growth in golf listings and an over 80% growth in bookings*.
The data also shows that in both New Zealand and Australia, millennials are the biggest bookers of golf trips with duos taking up the majority of group size bookings and most golf trips falling within the 2-6 night category**.
From Queenstown to Mangawhai, you will find layouts that are set on golden sand beaches, at the base of white capped mountains and teetering on the edge of dramatic cliffs, all designed by the best golf architects in the world.
With the recent New Zealand Open concluding on March 3rd, now is the perfect time to book a golf getaway.
Exceptional golf and a world class experience is only a stone’s throw away. Check out New Zealand’s top golf courses below, along with the best places to stay on Airbnb to experience the magic for yourself.
*Growth in golf listings in AU and NZ between ‘2022-12-31’ vs. ‘2023-12-31’ and growth in domestic bookings for golf listings in AU and NZ in H2’22 vs. H2’23. Considered listings tagged under “Golf” category as on ‘2022-12-31’ and ‘2023-12-31’ for H2’22 and H2’23 bookings respectively.
**Age, trip type and trip nights breakdown of guests booking golf listings in AU and NZ in 2023 (full year). Considered domestic + international bookings.
Queenstown
Millbrook, Coronet 10, Jack’s Point, The Hills
The Billiards Room, Glenfiddich Retreat, Luxury Winter Getaway
Taupo
Wairaki Golf and Sanctuary, The Kinlock Club
The Kinloch Retreat , Lake and Mountain Views
Hawkes Bay
Seafield View, Hygge Cottage, Wyatt House
Mangawhai
The Pool House, Sefuiva Maison, Park-like Luxury Oasis
Northland
Top House, Te Koha, Te Ngaere Bay Paradise
