A nation known for its stunning coastal golf is also home to this must-visit parkland beauty

GF - Approx £125
Stats - Par 72, 6,728 yards

Royal Wellington

Despite being highly-rated, it was generally felt that the course didn’t quite live up to its potential. As a result, there was a long-term upgrade by Turner Macpherson Golf Design which officially opened in 2014. There are now 27 holes, the 18-hole championship Heretaunga course, and the Terrace nine.

Royal Wellington - Hole 5 — The par-4 fifth is flanked by a stream which must be crossed from the tee and on approach

This lush course offers a terrific mix of the old and the new on an ever-changing landscape. Many holes run through mature trees and all manner of exotic flora. The bunkering throughout is visually striking.

Royal Wellington - Hole 17 — The penultimate hole is a short, but tight, par 4

Each of the four par 3s is excellent and different from the others, and one of the most significant features is the characterful, undulating greens. This is especially the case at the par-3 8th where there is a valley of sin between the front and back.

Royal Wellington - Hole 18 — The closing hole is a par 5 that is well bunkered and overlooked by the lovely, colonial-style clubhouse

From every perspective, this is a fabulous course to play, and if you are lucky enough to visit this lovely part of the world, a game at Royal Wellington Golf Club comes highly recommended. This is undoubtedly one of the best golf courses on the North Island, and there are plenty more to try out in the area.

Rob has been playing golf for more than 45 years and been a contributing editor for Golf Monthly since 2012. He specialises in course reviews and travel, and has played nearly 1,300 courses in almost 50 countries. Last year, his tally was 77, 44 of them for the first time, which included his 1,000th in the UK&I. One of Rob's primary roles is helping to prepare the Top 100 Courses, of which he has played all, as well as the Next 100 where he is missing two in Scotland and four in Ireland. He has been a member of Tandridge for over 30 years where his handicap hovers around 14. You can contact him at r.smith896@btinternet.com.

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.