Clearwater

Set on the outskirts of Christchurch against the backdrop of the Southern Alps, Clearwater Golf Club is one of New Zealand's premier championship venues. Designed in consultation with Sir Bob Charles and opened in 2002, the award-winning layout combines the strategic elements of Scottish links golf with the manicured presentation of a modern resort course, creating a memorable test that rewards both precision and thoughtful course management.

Defined by crystal-clear waterways, natural springs, and expansive wetlands, water comes into play on 14 of the 18 holes, while undulating fairways, deep bunkering, and large, contoured greens demand careful planning from tee to green. Multiple tee options ensure the course is enjoyable for golfers of all abilities, yet from the championship markers it presents a formidable challenge that has tested many of the game's best players.

Clearwater's reputation has been forged through its rich tournament history, having hosted the New Zealand Open, New Zealand PGA Championship, and multiple New Zealand Women's Opens. International stars including Jason Day, Bubba Watson, Jason Dufner, Lucas Glover, Jimmy Walker, and Lydia Ko have all competed here, with Ko famously recording a course-record 61 and capturing three New Zealand Women's Open titles on the layout.

The course unfolds as a strategic journey, with generous opening holes giving way to a superbly crafted back nine that is widely regarded as one of the finest in the country. Highlights include the picturesque par-three 9th, surrounded by water, the inventive par-five 14th with its split fairways and hidden burns, the demanding par-four 17th, and the sweeping closing hole that curves around the property's largest lake towards the elegant clubhouse.