Booking EnquiryHistory
Shaped by the rich heritage of Taupō, our journey weaves together the land, the game, and the creation of a unique wildlife sanctuary.
The design was entrusted to Commander John Harris, one of England’s most esteemed and widely travelled golf course architects, whose family had played a pivotal role in shaping iconic courses such as Moor Park, Wentworth, and Sunningdale. Partnering with fellow Englishman Michael Wolveridge and Australian legend Peter Thomson—a five-time British Open champion—the trio crafted New Zealand’s first internationally acclaimed golf course. Their collaboration not only met but surpassed all expectations, leaving an enduring legacy in the minds of New Zealanders.
Embark on a journey through 18 captivating holes, each offering a unique challenge amidst stunning natural surroundings. Let the chorus of native birds, the gentle flow of streams, and the charm of cascading waterfalls guide your way.
Embark on a journey through 18 captivating holes, each offering a unique challenge amidst stunning natural surroundings. Let the chorus of native birds, the gentle flow of streams, and the charm of cascading waterfalls guide your way.
The end result is a course that sprawls over the property using the natural contours to the fullest. This coupled with the 6460 metres from the championship tees and 108 large well placed bunkers, has lead to worldwide acclaim. It is the natural beauty and sheer experience of the property that makes Wairakei a must for the golf enthusiast.
The Sanctuary is a complement to the golf course and was born out of a natural ecological canvas and the passion of the owner, Gary Lane. Within 180 hectares of native flora and fauna sits one of New Zealand’s finest golf courses.
Whilst researching ways to enhance the natural habitats of our wildlife it was concluded that a fence excluding all pests and predators was the only effective way to achieve the objective. As a result, the 5.5 km boundary fence was erected which is 2 metres high and prevents both climbing and burrowing animals access to the property. In addition to the fence and sanctuary sits a kiwi egg incubation facility, hatching over 100 kiwi chicks a season.
The Sanctuary is a complement to the golf course and was born out of a natural ecological canvas and the passion of the owner, Gary Lane. Within 180 hectares of native flora and fauna sits one of New Zealand’s finest golf courses.
Whilst researching ways to enhance the natural habitats of our wildlife it was concluded that a fence excluding all pests and predators was the only effective way to achieve the objective. As a result, the 5.5 km boundary fence was erected which is 2 metres high and prevents both climbing and burrowing animals access to the property. In addition to the fence and sanctuary sits a kiwi egg incubation facility, hatching over 100 kiwi chicks a season.
