ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
Kauri Cliffs hosted the 'Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf' in 2003 and the PGA Tour’s Kiwi Challenge in 2008, helping to put New Zealand golf on the world map.
About
Kauri Cliffs Golf Club, designed by David Harman and opened in 2000, is a world-renowned resort course perched above the Pacific Ocean in Northland, New Zealand. The par 72 links-inspired layout features 15 holes with dramatic ocean views, rolling terrain, and a blend of coastal forest, farmland, and cliffside vistas. It has earned numerous accolades and regularly features in top global rankings.
Caddie Tip
Accuracy off the tee is crucial at Kauri Cliffs due to thick rough and coastal winds. Favor the safer side of fairways and club up on exposed cliffside greens, where ocean gusts often play tricks with distance. On fast, contoured greens, keep approach shots below the hole for the best scoring chances.
The Main Challenge
The biggest challenge at Kauri Cliffs is managing strong coastal winds and negotiating forced carries across ravines and cliffs, especially on exposed holes. Target accuracy is vital to avoid thick rough and hazards, while sloping greens require a deft touch for challenging chips and putts.
The Good
Golfers love the sweeping ocean views from the majority of holes, where cliffside fairways and greens offer stunning panoramas of the Pacific and distant islands. The course’s blend of natural beauty, strategic design, and world-class amenities creates a uniquely memorable and immersive golfing experience.
The Not So Good
Some golfers note the inland holes, while challenging and well designed, cannot match the coastal drama of the cliffside stretches. The course routing can also lead to some long walks between holes, increasing overall round time and walk difficulty, which may detract from the experience for some players.
Signature Hole:
#
7
The par 3 7th hole at Kauri Cliffs is regarded as a standout, playing across a dramatic chasm with the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop. The elevated tee provides breathtaking panoramic views, and swirling winds demand precise club selection. This hole exemplifies the course’s striking coastal drama and thrilling shot values.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse features breathtaking ocean views, fine dining in the 19th Tee Dining Room, comfortable locker rooms, a well-stocked pro shop, and luxurious lounges. Resort guests can access spa services and private beaches, making it a complete and exceptional hospitality experience.
Practice Facilities
Kauri Cliffs offers an elevated driving range with ocean views, a large putting green, and a short-game area for chipping and bunker play. The practice grounds are well maintained and provide a beautiful and relaxing environment to warm up before a round.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
.avif)
.png)
.png)
