Modern golf originated in Scotland – so of course there are many splendid courses in Dunedin, the 'Edinburgh of the south'. From coastal links, to expansive rural idylls, to charming 9-hole clubs snuggling up to the city centre, get out your driver and go.
Belleknowes Golf Club
Located on Lawson Street in Belleknowes, just above the city centre, this 9-hole, par 58 course is open to the public with green fees costing $10 to have a round. Its undulating design lies within Dunedin’s Town Belt of parks, whose mature trees frame clear views over the city. Phone 03 477 4810 or email belleknowesgolfclub@gmail.com
Chisholm Park Golf Club
The 18-hole, par 71 Chisholm Links golf course overlooks the Ocean View Beaches and the Pacific Ocean. It has hosted many top tournaments in recent years and has been called the best links (i.e. sea-side dunes) course in New Zealand. The course can be found at 16 Tahuna Road, Tahuna.
Read more on www.chishomlinks.co.nz
Gladfield Golf Club
A 9-hole golf course with rolling hills and a picturesque country setting. For information contact gladfield.golf@gmail.com or call 03 489 4882.
Read more on their Facebook page
Island Park Golf Club
This semi-private, 9-hole course is located at 336 Brighton Road Waldronville. Scattered with trees, a few bunkers and a lake make it a testing course for golfers of all levels. The course provides a great view overlooking the Kaikorai Estuary. Phone 03 488 2258.
J.Tees
J.Tees is a golf course located 15 minutes’ drive from Dunedin. It provides a casual playing field for all skill and experience levels. No membership is required and green fees are $10. Hire of equipment is available by prior arrangement. There is also a clubhouse and function room available. Phone 027 418 1385.
Otago Golf Club
This scenic course celebrates its 150th Anniversary in 2021. Often the site of championship events, the course is just five minutes’ drive from the Dunedin CBD and there’s a pro-shop attached to the clubhouse for gear hire. It is recommended that you phone 03 467 2096 in advance to book a tee slot. The course is situated at 125 Balmacewen Road, Helensburgh.
Read more on www.otagogolfclub.co.nz
St Clair Golf Club
St Clair is an 18 hole course that is nestled on top of the cliffs above St Clair Beach offering stunning views. The course is lined with trees and constantly changing pin positions, offering a challenge to golfers of all calibre. Its pro-shop offers gear hire. The course can be located at 20 Isadore Road, Corstorphine. Phone 03 487 7076.
Read more on www.stclairgolf.co.nz
Taieri Lakes Golf Course
The Taieri Lakes Golf Course is lined with trees and is sheltered from north-easterly winds. The course’s three lakes may test your skills on four of the holes. The 18-hole course has a practice fairway, practice bunkers and putting greens. This well-manicured course is situated at 92 Milners Road, at the bottom of three Mile Hill, North Taieri, phone 03 489 7450.