Taupō · New Zealand · Waikato
Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary
Wairakei Golf Course
Wairakei Golf Course holds a significant place in Waikato golf. It is a woodland course integrated into a natural sanctuary. Located in Taupō, in the Waikato region, this course is set in forested terrain where precision from the tee is paramount. It should be presented not merely as a destination, but as a unique New Zealand golfing experience, with its history, architectural choices, relationship to the landscape, and the decisions it imposes on the player. The Round selects Wairakei Golf Course for its architectural, historical, or territorial value in the World Golf Atlas.
woodland · 18 holes · Par 72 · 6,429 m · 1970
ArchitectJohn Harris; Michael Wolveridge; Peter Thomson
At a glance
Wairakei Golf Course holds a significant place in Waikato golf. It is a woodland course integrated into a natural sanctuary. Located in Taupō, in the Waikato region, this course is set in forested terrain where precision from the tee is paramount. It should be presented not merely as a destination, but as a unique New Zealand golfing experience, with its history, architectural choices, relationship to the landscape, and the decisions it imposes on the player. The Round selects Wairakei Golf Course for its architectural, historical, or territorial value in the World Golf Atlas.
Geography & setting
Wairakei Golf Course is located in Taupō, in the Waikato region of New Zealand. The course unfolds within a forested landscape where precision from the tee is crucial. This geographical understanding should be supplemented by details of the exact soil types, altitude, prevailing exposure, winds, vegetation, visible landscapes, and the influence of seasons on playing conditions.
History
Opened in 1970, the course was designed by John Harris, Michael Wolveridge and Peter Thomson and later enclosed within a wildlife sanctuary.
Architecture
Long wooded fairways, water, wetlands and volcanic landscape create an isolated parkland.
The course in detail
The course features 18 holes, with a par of 72, measuring approximately 6429 meters from the championship tees. The course utilizes its woodland environment to artfully arrange angles, hazards, and approaches to the greens.
Club experience
The golf course operates within a private sanctuary protecting native New Zealand species.
Practical information
- Official website
- www.wairakeigolfcourse.co.nz/