WAIRAKEI INTERNATIONAL GOLF COURSE

Wairakei International Golf Course, rated in the top twenty courses outside of the United States, is just nine kilometers north of Lake Taupo and the Taupo township.

Set in 180 hectares of gently rolling countryside, it presents magnificant tree-lined fairways and large greens. 

The natural contours, 108 well placed bunkers and three water hazards guard the course from those over-ambitious shots.  The large greens provide a false sense of security.  the subtle breaks and fast pace demand accurate approach shots.  A long putt can be hard to get close.

The wide sweeping, par 5 first hole, dotted with bunker sets the scene. 

The second provides a taste of the shorter holes, and the third and fourth are character par 4s that really get you into the round.

The signature hole is the par 5 14th, "The Rogue", where you thread your way through the bunkers and strategically placed trees, before firing upwards to a large, sloping and elevated green.

A course that rewards the thinking golfer, it is well drained with excellent practice and clubhouse facilities.

First opened in 1970, the course was designed and built by Commander John Harris, a renown British course architect, Michael Wolveridge, a US touring professional and Peter Thomson, a five times winner of the British Open.

Wairakei International Golf Course

The aim was to build New Zealand's first internationally acclaimed championship course, and one visit will convince you that this trio exceeded all expectations.

The region is reknown for its thermal valleys and is the Trout Fishing capital of the world.

Let ExtravagaNZa take you to Wairakei on your next golf tour.