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Golf in Godzone: Some thoughts on Kauri Cliffs

12/23/2013

Previously posted August 15, 2011

Saturday morning, surfing for golf news prior to heading for the course.
Came across this headline by Connell Barrett.

“Kauri Cliffs, New Zealand. I came. I saw. I killed possums”

Saturday afternoon, around a table at the 19th, I asked the guys, “What d’ya think of Kauri Cliffs?”
Since my club is blessed with a good ethnic mix of members, what follows could be described as international opinion.

The man from Hong Kong said, “Make sure good weather.”
Agreed it’s a long drive up there from Auckland and it’s a real bummer if it’s bad weather. Almost…in fact unplayable if there’s also a high wind.

I digress for a moment. Did you know in the Hong Kong/Chinese golf culture, a person who’s had a recent hole-in-one has to shout his mates dinner? Chinese food I guess.
And not just the lads he was playing with at the time.

Geez I found it tough enough to buy three wee drams.
Not true - It was so early in the morning, even by the time we got in, the bar was still closed-Yeah!

The good news for the Chinese dinner-provider is that the invited guests must bring him/her a present.

Then there was the lad from Liverpool. Not known for being complimentary about anything, including even when I occasionally play well.
“Great course!” he said.

One of the Kiwis in our midst, the management man said, “Very classy, over-priced.”
Sounds more like a Scotsman than a Kiwi. But nonetheless price is an issue for people who are paid in Kiwi dollars.

All around the table agreed it was a great course and a superb test of golf, which left me thinking, “Damn shame it’s so costly for young Kiwi golfers who need to play a great test of golf for a reality check.”

In my youth, in Scotland, regularly playing a non-championship course, I thought I was kinda hot. Fortunately, when I was brave enough to give myself a real test. I could play in competitions at great courses for a reasonable price for instance The Craw’s Nest Tassie at Carnoustie and The Silver Tassie at Gleneagles.

No such luck for your average Kiwi kid who needs a wake up call - A reality check.
The real tests in NZ, Kauri Cliffs, Cape Kidnappers and Kinloch don’t have, as far as I am aware, a reasonably priced annual event where the young kids can get a real challenge to test their skill level.

The closest that comes to mind is the West Coast Open at Muriwai. And having been there done that a couple of times. I am no longer surprised at the (high) scores by the kids who think they’ve done good to get down to scratch or less.

And how about his comment by Connell about Kauri Cliffs?
“It's like Pebble Beach, but better: It's so remote you likely won't run into Kenny G or George Lopez.”

Better than Pebble Beach-Wow! That may just persuade a few Kiwis to have a wee word with their, hopefully friendly, bank manager

Golf In Godzone: “Quirky” Paraparaumu

12/23/2013

Previously posted July 04, 2011

‘A true links course, Paraparaumu has the feel of a course in the British Isles, although the weather is decidedly better here. Similar to Royal Lytham & St. Annes, you never actually see the water while playing. In addition to sharing the topography of Lytham, the course also has an element of the quirkiness of Scotland's Cruden Bay thrown in.’

Following up on his review of Cape Kidnappers, the Top 100 golfer had the above to say about Paraparam. His reference to having enjoyed playing Cruden Bay struck a chord with me having played it several times but never Paraparam, I will most definitely have to add it to my list of must-play New Zealand golf courses. Especially when I read, ‘Paraparaumu offers plenty of opportunity to be creative and bump and run the ball…’

There’s very few if any courses in NZ which affords one the opportunity to play genuine Scottish links-style bump and run shots. And the following is good news for golfers who can’t handle bunkers. ‘In the same way that Whistling Straits is defined by its generous use of bunkers, Paraparaumu is defined by the absence of them. There are less than a dozen fairway bunkers on the entire course; and the 1st and 5th holes have none of any kind.’

There’s a great photograph of Paraparaumu's tabletop sixteenth green. Very Donald Ross and no doubt since Michael Campbell honed his skills here, it is understandable Cambo was unfazed by Ross’ Pinehurst 2 where he won his U.S. Open.

And the good news for thrifty Scots coming to NZ for the Rugby World Cup, ‘Paraparaumu has one of the cheapest greens fees among world-class courses and provides a good excuse to visit Wellington. No golf trip to New Zealand would be complete without visiting this classic links gem…This course is worthy of being in the top 100 in the world.’

Here's the link to the Top 100 golfer

Golf in Godzone: Julian’s Got Class

12/23/2013

Previously posted June 03, 2011

‘Unlike The Donald, (Julian) Robertson actually has class and builds quality, and I for one am grateful he did it and opened up two unique locations for the world to see.’

Top 100 Golfer has got round to reviewing his trip to Cape Kidnappers. Having already done Julian Robertson’s Kauri Cliffs he is of the opinion, ‘Combine the front nine of Kauri Cliffs with the back nine of Cape Kidnappers and you've got the eighteen prettiest holes in the world.’

The reviewer adds that, "Cape Kidnappers in particular which has an entry drive that ‘vaults to the top of my (Top 100 Golfer) list of dramatic golf course entrances. It eclipses all four of my other top entry drives: Sand Hills, Morfontaine, Yeamans Hall and Kauri Cliffs."

The following comments could give rise to heated debate among those who’ve already played Cape Kidnappers.

‘It begins with a good first hole, but overall I found the 2nd through 6th, 10th, 11th and 17th a bit underwhelming.
I didn't understand the eleventh hole at all. It is a 224 yard par three that requires you to walk far from the previous green, up a hill with a dramatic view.
I've heard the par four seventeenth described as a great hole but I don't think so. I didn't find much about it to be unique.’

No doubt many people will beg to differ but few will disagree with this summation.

‘Cape Kidnappers is in many respects ultimately like Pebble Beach. What makes Pebble Beach so great is a half dozen spectacular holes, which compensate for many holes that are good, but not great. Cape Kidnappers also has a collection of holes that are so superior in their own right that they make up for some average holes and make it a worthy course to be included among the best in the world.’

Here's the link to the Top 100 Golfer

Golf in Godzone: The Long And Winding Road To Kauri Cliffs

12/23/2013

Previously posted May 04, 2011

You know you are in Godzone when the approach to a course that’s # 49 in the world is a ‘long and winding dirt entry road’.

The Top100 golf blogger has now posted his thoughts and photographs of his time at Kauri Cliffs which is located in the ‘northern portion of the North Island of New Zealand.’ Consequently it’s truly off the beaten world track and unsealed roads to remote locations, regardless of their stature are the norm for Godzone.

The Land of the Long White Cloud with ‘10 times as many sheep as people’ is captured by several excellent photographs, including a sparsely, sheep-populated hillside.

‘The dirt road entry drive to Kauri Cliffs’ photograph is followed by what is ‘Surely the most scenic driving range view in the world’.
The reader is told, ‘this place doesn't suck! It is one of the prettiest places on the planet. As an example, check out the view from the driving range’.

The course review is not quite up to the standard we’ve come to expect from Golf Club Atlas however the photography is at least as good and we’re reminded; ‘I take pictures of memorable holes and scenery as I gallivant around golf courses (duh). I was not too surprised when I downloaded my pictures at Kauri to see that almost all my pictures were of the scenery, and I have very few pictures of golf holes.’

‘The bridge from the tee to the fairway on the sixth hole’ is testimony to the fact that although the New Zealand government doesn’t believe in tar-sealing roads leading to a top 100 golf course in the world. The owner, Julian Robertson, has spared no expense when it comes to making it easy to traverse the course.

‘The view from the eighth tee at Kauri Cliffs’ and ‘The amazing view from the fifteenth hole’ capture the feeling of The Bay of Islands region and the photograph of the Bay of Islands’ airport confirms that Godzone is truly the place for a getaway for golfers who’ve grown weary of the well beaten track.'

The reviewer writes, ‘We flew out of the Bay of Islands airport in Kerikeri on our way down to Cape Kidnappers. It is one of the smallest I've ever flown out of with no security whatsoever. I guess they are not worried about planes being hijacked to Cuba down here. These lucky Kiwis are living la dolce vita down here. What a great and unique country!’

Dolce vita indeed but please keep it to yourself otherwise one day the Kiwis may wake up and discover there’s just as many folk as sheep living on what the Aussies call ‘The Shaky Isles’.

For the record, Monteith's Summer Ale is described as the local beer but not so. It comes from New Zealand’s South Island, which has even more sheep. And scenery which some say, excels even the best that the Bay of Islands has to offer

Golf in Godzone: “Holy cow is Kauri Cliffs beautiful…”

12/23/2013

Previously posted March 21, 2011

Some time ago The Top 100 Golfer set out to play the top 100 golf courses in the world. And now his golfing goal is almost complete except for Augusta National, Highland Links, Homestead (Cascades), Paraparaumu Beach and Kauri Cliffs.

The Top 100 Golfer writes, ‘I have set out to play the top 100 golf courses in the world. My writing is equal parts golf course critique, travelogue and social commentary. I offer my opinions about each course after playing it and also give a sense of the clubs, their atmosphere and traditions.’

And since he's not obliged to say nice things about the host’s golf course. When he writes, ‘Holy cow is Kauri Cliffs beautiful, one of the most beautiful places I've been to.’ You better believe it.
As yet there is no report on the course just some interesting photographs to whet your golfing appetite.

Likewise there’s only a sneak preview of Cape Kidnappers which has, ‘…one of the best par fives in the world, the fifteenth, with a view of the fairway that can't be replicated.’

The Top 100 Golfer is a great web site for photographs and comments on many of the great courses of the world. And only surpassed by Golf Club Atlas which has just by coincidence featured Cape Kidnappers as its most recent course review.

Quote of the Day
‘Cape Kidnappers will remind you of no other course and the only thing for sure is that you will want to come back.’ - Golf Club Atlas

Golf in Godzone: Jack’s Point – Just Do It

12/23/2013

Previously posted March 26, 2011

‘…one of the most amazing courses I have ever played, Jack's Point in Queenstown.’ From the Top 100 Golfer who’s been there and done thousands of miles playing many of the world’s great golf courses.

On November 30, 2009 I wrote, ‘It’s on again and we’re off to Jack’s Point very soon.
It does appear that the good news is spreading throughout the world
Why just last week a group of Americans paid a visit to my home club.
And I was kinda surprised to learn that they had included Jack’s Point in their itinerary.
Surprised because it’s still a relatively new course; officially opened less than a year ago, and it’s already on the must-play list for overseas golfers.’

My first visit was a year earlier shortly before the official opening. And since then I’ve taken every opportunity to talk-up this great golf course with amazing views.

My message of “Jack’s Point – Just Do It” Isn’t just for the very many North Islanders who’ve never travelled to the South Island. It’s also for overseas golfers who have been sold on the North Island’s Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers and never given a thought to, or heard of Jack’s Point.

Don’t you just hate it when you’ve travelled thousands of miles and come home to be greeted at the club with, “What! You went there (pick your location) and you didn’t play…”

Trust me Jack’s Point is worth the extra miles to go the deep south of the South Island. But do your homework on the best months unless you’d like to combine your visit by joining in the festivities at the Queenstown Winter Festival, which usually happens just before the snow arrives.

And it’s possible should the snow arrive early to ski and golf in the same day.
The Gibbston Valley is not far from Queenstown and Jack’s Point and in itself a remarkable story.
Way back in the early 1980’s Gibbston Valley Wines founder, Alan Brady planted his first grapes.

‘One of a handful of pioneers …convinced the unique temperature and environment in New Zealand’s Central Otago region provided the ideal setting for successful wine production. Most locals thought he was crazy and doomed to failure – planting grapes surrounded by snow-capped mountains in the world’s southern-most vineyard. But the vines survived and those early vintages were better than he had hoped for.’

New Zealand has become world famous for its Pinot Noirs and Gibbston Valley Wines have some of the best.

Golf in Godzone: The Land of Links

12/18/2013

Previously posted Dec 27, 2010

True Links-An Illustrated Guide to the Glories of the World’s 246 Links Courses was mentioned in my post of Nov 01 with the heading, Golf: 'True Links' - Best Buy Book For Christmas and now thanks to Santa Claus, well in truth it was actually obtained by a good friend who picked up a copy of the book while in the States. I now have a copy.

As someone who lives in New Zealand I was immediately drawn to the chapter featuring New Zealand and got this surprise in the opening comments.

‘If asked what country outside the British Isles boasts the most links courses, few people would answer New Zealand, but that is indeed the case. Nine courses here are bona fide links, and several others come close.’

George Pepper when asked, “So how do we define a genuine links' course?”
Answer: "Our first step was to agree on a definition—not of links per se but of linksland. As our basis we used the British Golf Museum’s definition which describes linksland as "a stretch of land near the coast on which the game is played, characterized by undulating terrain, often associated with dunes, infertile sandy soil, and indigenous grasses such as marram, sea lyme, and the fescues and bents which, when properly managed, produce the fine, textured, tight turf for which links are famed."

Muriwai was also mentioned in my post and I have to assume it was one of the ‘several others’, which came close. And although not specifically mentioned in True Links it’s my guess that one of the reasons it is denied inclusion is the type of grass on the fairways. And yet when it comes to describing Humewood, South Africa’s only true links it’s written that, “Kikuyu and Bermuda grass-two notoriously poor links grasses-cover the fairways, and yet these fairways bounce and roll as if they were in Great Britain.’

Another reason for excluding Muriwai is perhaps the presence of the many magnificent and towering Norfolk Pines. Too many trees, I seem to recall was the reason why Scotscraig in Scotland isn't included in True Links.

When keeping in mind it’s the type of golf course and not its claim to fame that’s the criterion then maybe it should come as no surprise when being informed of the nine NZ links courses.

What is a surprise, and will be welcomed by golfers in the “Mainland”: The name those in the far less populated South Island call their part of Kiwiland. There is only one club in the North Island that meets the links criteria. And that’s Paraparaumu.

But wait there’s more and more surprises especially when the reader is advised that 18-holes is not mandatory for inclusion. And having played several of the lesser-known courses I’d have to say I did get the feel of playing on a links course.
The other courses are, Chisholm Park, Hokitika, Karamea, Nelson, Otakou, Southland (Oreti Sands), Takaka and Westport.

Presumably having delighted the “Mainlanders” with the knowledge of the abundance links courses in their part of the world. All Kiwis will be pleased to read that, ‘Australia…Despite being nearly thirty times the size of New Zealand and having six thousand more miles of coastline, Australia harbors fewer links courses.’

And now a final word for those travelling to New Zealand and for Kiwi golfers who spend thousands of dollars travelling half way round the world to play links golf in Bonnie Scotland while there are many in their own backyard. This comment from True Links about New Zealand links courses.

"In that sense they have remained true, unspoiled links. In contrast to other areas of the globe, where overwatering, overplanting, and overmanicuring have destroyed much of the original character, the New Zealand links are true to their roots.”

Thought for the day from True Links about one of my favourite true links courses, The Machrie on the Isle of Islay.
‘Machrie is a glorious test of links golf played in wild and remote surroundings…’

Golf in Godzone: Southland’s “Hidden Gem” – Oreti Sands

12/18/2013

Previously posted Jan 07, 2011

Southland Golf Club, more affectionately known as Oreti Sands is the Southern-most 18 hole links in the World.

Some 10 Kms south of Invercargill makes it a long way from Auckland or for that matter Christchurch. However the more I read about the course the more it’s a “must play” one day.

Ever since John Huggan the sometimes scathing Scottish golf correspondent wrote about his experience down south, I’ve had playing the course in the back of my mind.

Way back in May 2005, John wrote in the New Zealand Golf Magazine, "Oreti Sands was particularly enjoyable and incredibly good value for money. In fact, this remote and dramatic course has the potential to be that ever-elusive 'hidden gem' you read about in the glossy travel magazines. Such is the quality and variety of an endless stream of interesting and challenging holes. Go there soon; this is a great place to play golf."

Huggie reckoned it’s “one of the two best Kiwi courses he has played” and according to an update at the club’s web site, it’s just got even better in recent years.

“Former top NZ Professional golfer, Greg Turner (now into golf course design) and his associate Scott Macpherson secured funding in 2006 to develop the course and work commenced on altering the layout in January 2007. Four spectacular new holes have been added, four have been removed and several others modified.
The new layout was officially opened for club members on 7th March 2009. On Monday 9th an exhibition match was played between Peter Senior & Peter O'Malley versus Peter Fowler & Mahal Pearce.”

In my recent post ‘Golf in Godzone: The Land of Links” I wrote of how Oreti Sands is one of the truly rare links courses in the world.
The authors of True Links suggest there’s only 246 true links golf courses, which is less than one percent of the world's 30,000-plus courses and Oreti Sands is one of 9 in New Zealand.

Quote of the Day
“Oreti is a true links, full of humpy fairways, native grasses, greens tucked into tussocked dunes, and myriad shot-playing options”
- True Links by George Peper & Malcolm Campbell

Golf in Godzone: Pegasus – A Very Pleasant Surprise

12/18/2013

Previously posted Nov 29, 2010

Pegasus Golf Course is one of the three courses featured in “Play 3 of Canterbury’s Top Championship Courses for just NZ$299”. Which may not sound cheap for affiliated Kiwi golfers but for overseas golfers it’s a real bargain.

Having just returned from a golfing trip to Canterbury, which also included viewing the distressing damage to Christchurch caused by the recent earthquake. I have to say that Pegasus came as a very pleasant surprise. And not just for me but 15 other Links-lovers who are hard to please when it comes to playing golf courses which are off the beaten sand track.

Our combined concern about the choice of Pegasus was that it is a very new golf course. It’s part of property development project and would possibly present us with in-your-face views of MacMansions instead of magnificent golfscapes. And given the incredible flatness of this region of Canterbury, was it possible to incorporate some visually impressive and challenging golf holes?

No worries mate! The unanimous verdict of 16 golfers was it’s a real pleasure to play.

The only other time in history when 15 of these fellas were unanimous about anything was when they all agreed it was my ‘shout’.

So who was the guy who came up with this very good golf course design? Which can only get better as the course matures. Well laddies I have to tell you it was a lassie.

This from New Zealand Golf Magazine, February 2010

‘Although only now beginning to gain recognition for her work in the field of golf course design, Christchurch based Kristine Kerr has a background in the industry which belies the profile she has.’

Last year Kristine became the first woman to be accepted into the Australian Society of Golf Course Architects and so we can look forward to the pleasure of playing more of Kristine Kerr’s courses.

During the same 5-day golfing excursion we also played the other two of the “3 Canterbury’s Top Championship Courses” Plus Templeton and Russley.

Even at this early stage of the Pegasus course development, we were of the opinion that Pegasus is the must-play of the 3 courses. Clearwater, perhaps because it was being prepared for a possible venue for the NZ Open was just too tough and not pleasurable for the average golfer.

Terrace Downs was spoiled for us because of the verrrrry slow greens. But this is only a temporary condition as the greens’ staff slowly bring the greens back after a hard winter.

Terrace Downs is a wee bit out of Christchurch, whereas Pegasus is only 25 minutes from the CBD. But it does offer the opportunity of getting a feel of the Canterbury Plains and views of the magnificent Southern Alps which still had a wee bit of snow on them even after the recent spell of summer-like weather.

Finally a word for the local golfers or visitors to Christchurch. You’ve just got to play Russley as they prepare the course for an upcoming tournament. The greens are fast and true and the Spring weather has brought out the best in this very good golf course.

Golf in Godzone: Titirangi’s Remarkable ‘Redan’

12/18/2013

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Previously posted Oct 25, 2010

Dr. Alister MacKenzie during his brief visit to New Zealand to view the land chosen for what is now the Titirangi golf course wrote, “This should make a famous hole.” The hole he was referring to is now the 11th called “Redan”.

Thoughts of Titirangi came to mind when I saw that top100golf had a new poll question: The best Redan hole?

Haven’t been there and done that at all of the world’s 'Redan' holes and in fact only have personal experience of Titirangi’s 'Redan' and the original at North Berwick..
Therefore I’m in no position to cast a vote, however from what I’ve seen of the other Redans, Titirangi’s is perhaps the most picturesque.

And by mere chance I’ve come across an “In my opinion” article by Matthew Mollica at Golf Club Atlas where there’s a good photograph of Titirangi’s 'Redan'. Indeed there are lots of good photographs and an in-depth opinion of the golf course.

Alas and through no fault of Matthew, the 'Redan' photograph doesn't give a taste of the more intimidating view from the further back and lower level of the Men’s Black Tee.

And at the risk of being ‘’rubbished” I’m inclined to think that Titirangi’s “Redan” has the greatest change in elevation of all the Redans.

A visit to Matthew’s “In my opinion” is a must visit should you be planning on a golfing trip to New Zealand. Or a 2011 visit for the Rugby World Cup with a wee bit of golf to boot.

Staying with thoughts of visiting New Zealand and planning some golf in the near-Auckland area there’s a course at Mangawhai which is mentioned in Jeff Barr’s 1001 Golf Holes You Must Play Before You Die’.

‘Mangawhai itself is a secluded little beach resort, nestled between the expanse of the crystal-clear Pacific Ocean and beautiful rolling farmland and is within easy driving distance of Auckland…Secretary–manager Dave Barlow told the New Zealand Herald that he would nominate the second hole, a par 4 of 423 yards off the blue tees, as his favorite. It’s the number one stroke hole, doglegged to the right, with a swamp on the left. Miss the fairway to the right and you’re amidst the manuka on the dunes.’
This has to be one of the toughest par-4 tee shots in New Zealand especially since it comes so early in the round. And great care should be taken lest one bad shot, resulting in a shocking score, spoils your whole day."

Since Mangawhai requires only a very short diversion en route to Northland’s world-famous Kauri Cliffs. Here’s Stan’s suggestion. Spend the night at Mangawhai, rise early to play the 18 holes (Yes they’ve got carts to help make good time) and you can still reach Kauri Cliffs in time for 18 holes.
And Mangwhai has a helicopter pad to facilitate even faster times to Kauri Cliffs.

Here’s the results for very recent top100golf polls.
Hardest course to get on? Augusta
Great golf course architect? MacKenzie
Best golfing region in the world? Long Island

Long Island, New York is a really neat place but really. Best golfing region in the world?
Of course that assumes the criterion is great golf courses and not a combination of golf courses and off-course activities.

Comment of the day from Matthew Mollica
“While certainly not MacKenzie’s best work, Titirangi provides enjoyable golf, over a site which has been used to its fullest extent. I eagerly await a return visit, for another dose of The Good Doctor’s brand of pleasurable excitement.”

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Golf in Godzone: Some thoughts on Kauri Cliffs

Golf In Godzone: “Quirky” Paraparaumu

Golf in Godzone: Julian’s Got Class

Golf in Godzone: The Long And Winding Road To Kauri Cliffs

Golf in Godzone: “Holy cow is Kauri Cliffs beautiful…”

Golf in Godzone: Jack’s Point – Just Do It

Golf in Godzone: The Land of Links

Golf in Godzone: Southland’s “Hidden Gem” – Oreti Sands

Golf in Godzone: Pegasus – A Very Pleasant Surprise

Golf in Godzone: Titirangi’s Remarkable ‘Redan’

Here's a selection of previously posted blogs about and some new ones on golf and travel in New Zealand from my general golf blog at Voxy
http://www.voxy.co.nz/users/stan-sutherland

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Here's a selection of previously posted blogs about and some new ones on golf and travel in New Zealand from my general golf blog at Voxyhttp://www.voxy.co.nz/users/stan-sutherland

Archives

Categories

Here's a selection of previously posted blogs about and some new ones on golf and travel in New Zealand from my general golf blog at Voxy
http://www.voxy.co.nz/users/stan-sutherland