NEW Zealand’s Windross Farm is the result of a land swap by members of the former Manukau Golf Club.
Since opening in 1932, South Auckland had grown around the club in recent years and an opportunity was presented by a local developer. Take a new piece of rural land about 10 minutes away with funding to build an architecturally significant championship course, full practice facilities and a modern clubhouse in exchange for the acreage populated by Manukau Golf Club. By majority vote, the members made the only decision they could … they took the deal.
The result is a breath of fresh air for the Auckland market and surrounding area. Course architect Brett Thompson of RBT Design – who played a major role in producing Millbrook, Clearwater Resort and Jack’s Point – worked with former New Zealand touring pro Phil Tataurangi as a course consultant to produce the 18-hole layout.
A traditional par-72 layout with returning nines, the course is almost completely void of trees but is toughened by 38 well-placed bunkers. A standout feature would have to be the investment in drainage, which is among the best seen in New Zealand. It allows the course to play firm and fast – essentials for a links golf experience.
Thankfully, Windross won’t have a long wait to prove this to the world as the course has been selected as the site for the LPGA Tour’s McKayson New Zealand Women’s Open. Teeing off on September 28 and hosted by Lydia Ko, the tournament will cast a massive spotlight on New Zealand as an emerging golf destination.
THE DETAILS
Windross Farm Golf Course
237 Alfriston-Ardmore Road, Ardmore, Auckland
Green fee: $NZ125 ($NZ165 international visitors)
+64 9281 5414
windrossfarm.co.nz
