New Zealand Golf Courses
– The Pin High Difference –
Te Arai South Golf Club
Te Arai South Golf Club is an 18-hole par-72 golf course set across coastal sand dunes, featuring rolling terrain, natural contours, and ocean views that shape a traditional walking links layout.
The 18-hole, Coore and Crenshaw-designed golf course is a par-72 layout, offering a traditional walking links experience set over 36 hectares (90 acres) of turf across the property’s natural, rolling sand dunes. All 18 holes have spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, with Little Barrier Island and the Hen and Chicks Islands in the background. The South Course debuted at #85 on the latest 23/24 GOLF Magazine Top 100 Courses in the World List.
Te Arai’s landforms vary from heaving sand ridges and meandering valleys to rumpled contours reminiscent of the classic seaside links on which the game began. These contours are the foundation and inspiration for the golf holes of Te Arai Links. The holes are as varied in appearance and character as the land itself. There are highly individualistic, some might even say quirky holes, like the shortish par fours at three, six, and sixteen, each reflecting the drama and unique character of the landforms that created their concepts. There are more traditional yet equally dramatic holes like the inland second, the tenth and eleventh; and there are the visually spectacular seaside holes at seven, eight, nine and fifteen through eighteen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Te Arai South Golf Club open to visitors?
Yes, visitors can play at Te Arai South Golf Club, but tee times are limited and advance booking is recommended due to its popularity and exclusive links experience.
What skill level is Te Arai South suited for?
Te Arai South is ideal for experienced golfers seeking a traditional walking links challenge, though mid-handicap players can also enjoy its varied and scenic layout.
What makes Te Arai South Golf Club unique?
Designed by Coore and Crenshaw, the course features dramatic sand dunes, rolling ridges, and views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby islands. Its creative hole designs and natural landforms make it a standout links experience in New Zealand.
When is the best time to play at Te Arai South?
The best months are spring to autumn (September to April) when the weather is mild, the course is in prime condition, and daylight hours allow for a full, leisurely round.
Other Courses to Play While You’re Here
Make the most of your time in the area — these nearby courses offer more chances to tee off in stunning New Zealand settings.



