ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
Tara Iti was created by clearing pine forest to reveal massive native dunes, transforming the landscape into one of the world’s most celebrated links courses—despite being less than a decade old.
About
Tara Iti Golf Club, designed by Tom Doak and opened in 2015, is a world-renowned private links set among natural dunes on New Zealand’s North Island coast. Its pure links design, dramatic ocean panoramas, and meticulous conditioning have earned it high praise and consistently top-25 world rankings. Exclusivity and exceptional service define the club experience.
Caddie Tip
Trust your caddie on approach shot selection—the ever-present wind, undulating greens, and tightly-mown runoffs make local knowledge invaluable. Don’t over-club on downwind holes, and favor conservative lines into greens, especially when pins are tucked near the edges of wild contours.
The Main Challenge
Tara Iti’s greatest challenge lies in managing the wind, navigating wide fairways bordered by native fescue, and reading complex green contours. Approach shots require both creativity and precision, with run-offs and tight lies demanding sound short game skills—especially as the wind and firm turf magnify mistakes.
The Good
Golfers praise Tara Iti’s exceptional routing through natural dunes, the scenery with constant ocean views, and the minimalist design that blends seamlessly with the environment. The attentive service—from mandatory caddies to valets—sets a world-class tone, and the pure links experience offers variety and engagement in all wind conditions.
The Not So Good
Some guests mention that exclusivity and limited access, while key to the club’s atmosphere, make it feel unwelcoming for those hoping to experience the course. The price for guests and requirement to stay on property or be invited by a member are barriers for most passionate golfers.
Signature Hole:
#
17
The 17th hole at Tara Iti is a par 3 playing toward the Pacific, framed by sand dunes and featuring dramatic, exposed greenside bunkering. Strategic pin placement and constant coastal winds create a challenging test, while breathtaking views of the water and islands make it unforgettable—a perfect showcase for the course’s natural artistry.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse offers luxurious locker rooms, fine dining, ocean-view relaxation areas, and attentive valet service. There’s an emphasis on refined hospitality and privacy, with every need met by a dedicated staff. Comfortable lounges and private patios complete the exclusive atmosphere.
Practice Facilities
Tara Iti features a large practice range and well-kept short game area, including chipping greens and multiple bunkers designed to mimic course conditions. Putting greens match speed and contour of those on the course, giving players essential preparation for their round.
Dress Code:
Prestigious
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.
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