Golf at Kauri Cliffs, New Zealand April 2, 2002
For scenery, there is likely to be no more spectacular golf course anywhere in the universe than Kauri Cliffs; forget Pebble Beach, forget the Plantation course at Kapalua, or any of the dozen other must-see courses you've heard about. Kauri (Kow-ree) Cliffs, Golf Digest's "Best New International Course of 2001" is definitely THE most beautiful course anywhere.
Kauri Cliff's panoramic views from its coastal bluffs are nothing less than breathtaking. The holes sit up above the Bay of Islands, with beautiful blue and turquoise water, outcroppings of small islands and secluded bays below. It's a little reminiscent of Pebble Beach, but MUCH more spectacular with Pacific Ocean views from 15 of the 18 holes (there are even from the driving range!) And when the ocean isn't actually visible, acres and acres of undeveloped rolling hills are. The only visible buildings are the lodge and clubhouse.
Kauri Cliffs is owned by Wall Street multimillionaire, Julian Robertson, who used to run the Tiger Fund, a once very successful hedge fund. He bought 4,000 acres of cattle ranch years ago and recently decided to convert part of it into a destination golf resort. The course conditioning is immaculate (although the greens were being cored and sanded the day we played), with tees that would pass for greens on many courses. The par three's are especially memorable and challenging.
By Kiwi standards, the course is outrageously expensive; by international standards, it's just very pricey. Golf fees are about US$ 200 a round (with an extra charge for a cart, which is pretty much required on this long, hilly course). A room at the Lodge in season runs about US$800 a night for a double, meals included. Thus, the course is likely to cater to Americans, Japanese, and other foreigners. Kiwi's just don't have that kind of money (although NZ residents only pay about half-priced green fees).
Kauri Cliffs is located in the heart of nowhere. Helicopter service is available, or there are scheduled flights to Kerikeri, about 45 minutes away. It's a 5 hour drive from the Auckland airport, most of the way on two lane road. The gravel road that takes you to the course itself is practically unmarked, as are the turnoffs that eventually lead to the unmanned gated entryway. Make sure you have reserved a tee time before making the drive; they're not likely to let you in without one. Once inside, you'll likely find the place practically deserted; the lodge is small, and tee times are set one half-hour apart!
The course is definitely challenging, and the weather can be too. This is Northland New Zealand, warm with rain and wind commonplace. We played on a sunny, not too windy day, and still didn't do very well. Of course the scenery is rather distracting, but the course IS pretty darn hard.
If you're a golfer, I suggest you add Kauri Cliffs to your golf course wish list and start saving now. And don't miss playing this course should you find yourself anywhere near Auckland.
For more info, visit www.kauricliff.com.