ARCHITECTS
Course info
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Course Report
Wairakei is the first fully predator-proof, fenced golf-and-sanctuary in New Zealand, housing rare birds including the kiwi and takahe roaming freely among golfers.
About
Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is a world-acclaimed, 18-hole, par 72 course designed by John Harris and Peter Thomson. Set within a fenced, pest-free wildlife sanctuary, the course combines championship-caliber golf with a significant conservation initiative, offering a rare blend of challenging play, native bushland, and thriving birdlife.
Caddie Tip
Play conservatively off the tee as several tree-lined doglegs punish overly aggressive lines. Keep approach shots below the hole on most greens, which tend to run true but can have subtle breaks shaped by the terrain and surrounding bush.
The Main Challenge
The toughest challenge is navigating the tightly tree-lined fairways and dealing with penal rough. Many holes require precise positioning, especially on doglegs. Natural contours and sanctuary boundaries add strategic complications and demand disciplined course management.
The Good
Golfers consistently praise the unique sanctuary experience—playing championship golf surrounded by pest-free native bushland and interacting with free-roaming native wildlife. The peaceful isolation, paired with spectacular natural beauty, creates an atmosphere found nowhere else in New Zealand.
The Not So Good
Some golfers mention that bunker conditions and green firmness can vary with seasonal maintenance. Occasional feedback suggests a desire to see improved drainage and a pace of play that matches the premium setting, especially during busy tourist periods.
Signature Hole:
#
14
The par 4 14th is widely cited as Wairakei's signature hole. It features a stunning elevated tee shot over a gully, bending left with native trees hugging the fairway. Approach accuracy is vital to reach a protected green set against a backdrop of dense bush and sanctuary wildlife.
Clubhouse
Full-service pro shop stocked with top brands, comfortable locker rooms, an upscale café with local cuisine, function spaces, outdoor viewing areas, and friendly, knowledgeable staff. The clubhouse offers views of the sanctuary and is a hub for social and post-round relaxation.
Practice Facilities
Comprehensive, including full driving range, multiple putting greens, dedicated chipping area, and a practice bunker. These facilities are well maintained and easily accessible before or after 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.
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