Discover Te Arai Links: A New Landmark in New Zealand’s Golf Scene
All Square 4min read •
1 Apr 2025
Te Arai Links, nestled along New Zealand’s pristine North Island coastline, is a brand-new luxury resort redefining the standards for golf and relaxation. Just a 75-minute drive or a 25-minute helicopter flight from Auckland, Te Arai Links offers a fresh and unparalleled experience for golf enthusiasts.
Te Arai Links boasts two exceptional, pure links-style golf courses designed by some of the world’s most renowned architects, each offering unique challenges and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
The North Course
The North Course at Te Arai Links, crafted by renowned architect Tom Doak, offers a traditional walking links experience that both begins and concludes along the oceanfront. This 18-hole, par-71 course spans 6,931 yards from the championship tees and is designed to integrate with the natural landscape.
A standout feature is the par-4 5th hole, where the green and subsequent tee are perched atop a ridge adjacent to an ancient Māori Pā — a historic hill fortress — situated on the property’s largest dune. Additionally, the 4th, 6th, 7th, and 9th greens are nestled within a shared bowl amid the dunes, enhancing the course’s unique character.
The North Course is planted with fescue grass on its greens, tees, and fairways, ensuring firm and fast playing conditions. Its design offers a distinct contrast to the neighbouring South Course, providing golfers with a diverse and memorable experience.
The South Course
The South Course at Te Arai Links, masterfully crafted by the legendary design team of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, is a breathtaking showcase of coastal golf. Sixteen holes offer sweeping ocean vistas, with eight running directly along the shoreline.
The course’s terrain seamlessly blends heaving sand ridges, meandering valleys, and rumpled contours, evoking the timeless charm of classic links golf. Each hole presents a unique challenge, designed to engage golfers of all skill levels while highlighting the natural character of the land.
Among its standout features is the iconic 3rd hole, a short par-4 that perfectly captures the dramatic interplay of the terrain, offering both beauty and strategic intrigue.
The journey concludes with a stunning seaside crescendo in the final three holes, delivering an unforgettable finish that cements the South Course as a must-play destination for lovers of exceptional links golf.
For a touch of fun, The Playground, a 2.5-acre putting green — the world’s largest — provides a unique venue for practice or friendly competitions next to Ric’s Restaurant.
Accommodation
Te Arai Links offers a range of elegant accommodations that combine comfort, style, and breathtaking views:
Suites: Designed for couples, these modern spaces provide convenient access to amenities and stunning vistas. Ocean Cottages: Ideal for families or groups, these cottages include private outdoor fire pits for memorable evenings under the stars. Four-Bedroom Villas: The ultimate in luxury, these spacious retreats feature full kitchens, fireplaces, and private living areas, accommodating up to eight guests.
Every room at Te Arai Links is thoughtfully designed to ensure an unparalleled level of comfort and connection to the natural beauty of New Zealand.
Gastronomy
Savour the essence of New Zealand with Te Arai Links’ three exceptional dining venues, each offering its own unique ambience and culinary delights:
Ric’s Restaurant: A lively setting serving wood-fired pizzas and refreshing beverages, adjacent to The Playground for a casual, social atmosphere. The Ocean Restaurant: A fine-dining gem with panoramic views of the South Course and Pacific Ocean, featuring seasonal menus crafted from locally sourced ingredients. The North Clubhouse: Perfect for a relaxed post-round meal, offering hearty dishes with a Mexican-inspired twist.
Every dish celebrates local flavours and culinary artistry, creating a dining experience as memorable as the surroundings.
Activities
Te Arai Links offers a wealth of activities beyond golf, ensuring every guest finds something to enjoy:
Water Adventures: Surf lessons, kayaking, paddleboarding, and private fishing charters let you explore the stunning coastline and nearby waterways. Land-Based Activities: Fat-tire mountain biking, property walks, horseback riding, and tennis or pickleball on the resort’s courts. Wellness and Beauty: Unwind with private yoga or Pilates sessions, indulgent massages, or cutting-edge beauty treatments, all in the comfort of your accommodation or the picturesque outdoors. Local Excursions: Visit nearby attractions such as the Mangawhai Museum, Waipu Caves, Sculptureum in Matakana, or the iconic Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway.
Te Arai Links is more than just a golf destination; it’s a complete experience that celebrates the natural beauty and rich culture of New Zealand. Whether you’re teeing off on world-class courses, indulging in gourmet cuisine, or exploring stunning landscapes, Te Arai Links promises unforgettable memories.
