Tee Off in NZ's Adventure Sport Capital

Our Anantara Vacation Club Ambassador and Golf Guru Jack Munro packs his golf clubs for a trip across the waters from his native Australia to explore the green courses of New Zealand, renowned as being one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Staying at our Anantara Vacation Club Resort, Oaks Shores, with its contemporary style and cosy comfort, right on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, in the heart of this alpine destination, he sets off to play at two of the area's most renowned golf courses. Here he shares his Queenstown golfing holiday experience with Club Owners.

An adventure sport capital
"Queenstown, on New Zealand's South Island, is known to be an adventure sport capital and I'm not surprised as the climate is mild and warm much of the year, making this a perfect year-round golfing location. As well as layers and a jacket, in case the wind whips up, make sure you have some wet weather gear for facing the elements on the green, as well as a hat and sunscreen. For most of the courses the dress code is pretty relaxed but it's always worth checking before you arrive. Great weather and golf all year round, what more could you ask for?

Spectacular nature
Actually, there's so much more. I've only visited New Zealand a couple of times but already it's one of my favourite places to visit and play golf. The air feels incredibly clean and the Lord of the Rings scenery is incredible, with spectacular mountain peaks. There are lots of activities for everyone, from visiting wineries to adventures in the Great Outdoors.

Great golfing locations
For golfers the bent grass grows so well in this climate that it is a real pleasure to putt on greens that roll so true. A couple of renowned quality courses are Jacks Point and Arrowtown, and I had the chance to play at two other celebrated Queenstown golfing clubs.

Head for The Hills
My favourite course would have to be The Hills; the co-venue of the annual NZ Open. What a setting. The scenery is amazing and the course is designed to fit in with the landscape. I like the challenge of the elevation changes, as well as the tough tee shot of the 5th and the short Par 4 of the 15th which is a challenge for any long hitter.

Millbrook for golf and Millhouse for dining
Another great course in Queenstown is Millbrook which also co-hosts the NZ Open. Flatter than The Hills, the 27 holes are a little easier and my favourite is the 9th, The Remarkable's 9, a true test for any player. While you're here make sure you have lunch or dinner at the Millhouse. The Cardona Merino Lamb was the best I have ever tasted!"

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