Amid the current southward drift of many of New Zealand’s key championships, it’s worth recalling the rich history of tournament play at Gulf Harbour Country Club, north of Auckland. The challenging Robert Trent Jones Jnr design that sits prominently on the Hauraki Gulf turns 22 this year. The two-time New Zealand Open venue (2005 and 2006) also hosted the 1998 World Cup of Golf just a year after the course opened.
Today ranked 17th in the country by New Zealand Golf Digest, the site has good vertical movement and several excellent risk/reward holes. The back nine is the standout, capped off by the picturesque 16th hole, a par-4 that begs for you to cut the corner and a green that provides sweeping ocean views.
Newly formed company GHCC 2016 Ltd took over operation from Gulf Harbour Country Club Inc. in November 2016. The new team set itself the task of providing “world-class facilities and services to both members and visitors, bringing Gulf Harbour Country Club to a new stage in its glorious and prestigious history”.
THE DETAILS
Gulf Harbour Country Club
Where: 180 Gulf Harbour Drive, Gulf Harbour, Whangaparaoa 0943
Green fee: $55-$65 (until September 30)
Phone: +64 09 428 1380
Web: gulfharbourcountryclub.co.nz
