The Takeaway:  Located in a sanctuary, Wairakei feels like you are playing through an aviary and totally secluded into nature. The setting is beyond charming and the golf course delivers with some great holes as well. It may not be one of the big headliner courses in New Zealand, but it is absolutely worth playing.  Grade B+

Quick Facts

Designer:  John Harris & Michael Wolveridge & Peter Thomson 1970

Cost:  Varies Click for current rates

Phone Number:  +64 7 374 8152

Course Website:  Official Website - Visit Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary's official website by clicking on the link provided.

Directions:  Get here! - 527 Wairakei Drive, Thermal Explorer Highway  3377 – NEW ZEALAND

Photos:  See additional photos of Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary

What to Expect:  Located just north of Taupo, Wairakei is a 450 acre ecological sanctuary beaming with native birdlife, dense ferns, and geothermal mist rising in the morning light. An impressive number of trees, 25,000 native and 5,000 exotic, are found throughout the layout and deliver a feeling of seclusion that many courses aren't able to when close to civilization. Built in 1970 by the trio of John Harris, Michael Wolveridge, and the legendary Peter Thomson, the course features generous fairways, contoured greens, and excellent turf conditions. Thermal creeks carve through the property as a hazard to contend with along with over 100 bunkers that are there to test your merit. There is 145 feet of elevation change throughout the property, the most dramatic change occurring from the elevated 6th tee down to the green below while the greatest ascent happens on the 14th hole. The diversity of birdlife and feeling of seclusion is what makes Wairakei a unique and special experience, and with over 7000 yards to cover, it delivers plenty of challenge as well. With a memorable closing hole awaiting at the conclusion of the round, a day at Wairakei is time well spent.

By the Numbers