Look for excerpts from “Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing around New Zealand” at www.wildwestcoastpublishing.com.

Thank you.

“
Personally, I love this time of year – heat, humidity, stress and finally the point at which  you realize you cannot do anymore and that sweet moment when you decide to kick back and relax, because, hey, its Christmas, bro – take it easy…

And then, in the serenity of dawn on December the 25th, before the kids rustle and bustle, the dog looking between you and the door cos it wants a pee then bounce back in to the warm spot on the bed.  The unusual quiet, broken only by a coffee machine gurgling cheerfully on the stove. The moments before the storm of present opening, loud, cheerful greetings of relatives, endless cups of tea, and then that moment…This is when that slightly unbalanced relative says something like:

“‘Crikey, this is a bit full on. Got anything to drink?’

“You know full well that the New World Environmentally friendly bag he came with did not have a doodle bear or bionicle for the kids, because, dear reader, they don’t clink together like that…and you know that a Brandy Alexander before 9 in the morning will bring the day crashing about you like a toga party in Dunedin and you’ll be as popular as Paul Henry at Susan Boyles record release party. But this is the one day of the year, when (technically) this behaviour is within the Rules of Social Engagement.

“You gently remind the mother in law and those relatives who are listening, that this is;  a) Christmas, b) once a year, c) when did we last see cousin X? d) the kids are too transfixed with the latest video game/remote controlled car/bike/Lego thing to notice their old man having some fun. 

Later you reinforce the point that a) whilst, technically, drinking on the roof could be considered dangerous, we do have robust deck chairs, b) we’re not endangering others as all our 9 Iron shots are indeed making it clear of the neighbours and no one is currently on that school field and c) what you need to realize that if my 12 year old can make that jump to the pool from the roof, genetics tells me that I can make it too.

“Some time later, in the ambulance, you cheerfully txt your life partner that you’re feeling much better and feel fortunate that you’ve solved her problem of not having enough chairs and food to go round, and you wish everyone a merry Christmas and hope to do it all again next year..You note that the paramedic is rummaging round in a draw muttering something about needing some more morphine.

“

Of course, none of this has much to do with Karikari Estate, which by the way, is going great guns. Last week I agreed to sponsor The Media Design  AUT Graduation Evening Exhibition (Auckland University of Technology.) I was happy to do this as it was being held at the old Carrington Hospital (which used to be what we call a Mental institution – albiet in hushed tones) and the fact that Karikari Estate’s sister company is the Carrington Resort (and on more than one occasion, it has been mentioned that the similarities were quite uncanny…) Also, I felt particuarly alturistic that morning so what the hey?”

“As always,” Ben says: ” I always appreciate feedback – and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask at info@karikariestate.co.nz.”

And from both Ben and myself we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and hope all enjoy the holiday period as responsibly as you can. Don’t forget to visit the Carrington Resort complex and Karikari Estate Vineyard and Winery when travelling up north to the North Island’s Karikari Peninsula.

Be sure to read more about touring and golfing New Zealand at my website and blog: wildwestcoastpublishing.com.

With beginnings in the United States and in New Zealand since 2006, the First Tee New Zealand mandate is: “To impact the lives of young people by providing learning facilities and education programs that promote character development and life-enhancing values through the game of golf.” – Exciting and worthwhile objectives.

And now with Ireland incorporating The First Tee into their youth programs, it is likely other countries will join in, as well.

Chairman and founding member, Craig Heatley explains why he brought The First Tee to New Zealand:

“I have witnessed The First Tee growing from its inception in the United States to 600,000 students enrolled in 223 facilities and have seen first hand the benefits the programme can bring to young people’s lives. I am sure that with the help of the wider community we can duplicate the success of the programme here in New Zealand.

“Confidence, honesty and respect are just some of The First Tee core values, and are such important elements in people’s lives.  If a programme like The First Tee can encourage these values in young people, New Zealand will be the better for it.”

Launched in 2006 by then Prime Minister, Helen Clark, donations to support the objectives continue to tumble in for this worthy cause.

The Nine Core Values are:

Integrity

Sportsmanship

Confidence

Perseverance

Courtesy

Respect

Judgement

Honesty

Responsibility

Stages of development include:

Target
Target is an introductory level of participation for children new to golf and is a fun way to learn about the game before proceeding to the certification programme. Suitable for children of all ages.

Par
The Par level focuses on fundamental communication and self-management skills. It introduces the game of golf; covers golf fundamentals such as set-up and balance; and teaches participants to establish their own Personal Par. This level is delivered in two parts. Students must complete Par 1 before proceeding to Par 2.  It is very okay to repeat the classes for extra practice.

Birdie
The Birdie level deals primarily with goal setting. This level continues to review golf fundamentals with a strong emphasis on short game. Participants learn a variety of golf shots and find out how to set and accomplish goals on the golf course.

Eagle

The Eagle level will give participants advanced instruction and practice in mastering Par and Birdie level skills, as well as additional topics such as conflict management, mentoring and career planning.

No child is denied access to The First Tee programme because of inability to pay. In cases of financial hardship, sponsors and supporters offer funding for this purpose.

DONATIONS AND CONTRIBUTIONS

The First Tee of New Zealand is a non-profit organization that relies on a loyal community of supporters. These supporters are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of youngsters in New Zealand. You may be interested in donating and/or  joining The Friends of The First Tee of New Zealand.

A special thanks goes to those 50 individual and organizations who first stepped forward to ensure the project’s success: the Founding Patrons of The First Tee of New Zealand.

Thanks also to The First Tee Board Member, Pip King of The Best of Golf New Zealand, for sharing this information.

In a recent review of the Jack’s Point website I couldn’t believe the prices…

and in New Zealand dollars, too! Click here for the Jack’s Point link. “Explore Jack’s Point” leads  to “Golf” then “Golf info” or “Golf Rates.”

The 7th at Jack's Point

Don’t miss playing this course on your next trip and visit the showhomes at nearby Fletcher Living Queenstown. This is a top-notch golf club with well-known and respected John Griffin NZPGA, GM on hand to give a warm welcome and offer the best equipment if you didn’t bring your clubs. And did I mention this is one of my favourite golf courses in all of New Zealand?

My putting suffered in this setting!

Why? Because it’s shiny and new; the fairways are picture perfect and the rock hazards are really craggy;  and best of all, the price is reasonable for the experience of golfing in such a beautiful setting. As well as great green fees in New Zealand dollars, look for accommodation and golf package specials connected with extraordinary Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments.

My book “Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing around New Zealand” has more information on Jack’s Point, including interesting history on how this amazing area got its name and on plans for the future with preservation at the top of the list.  I admire the Jack’s Point developer’s motto: “5% settlement; 95% preserve; 100% life.

Only ninety minutes north of Christchurch…the Hanmer Springs alpine spa village is almost totally encircled by forest, foothills and mountains of the Southern Alps. Although the nearby Waiau Gorge is a great place to bungy-jump, a visit to the Hanmer Springs Golf Club is a better bet for our longevity… Established in 1911, Hanmer Springs is a par 68, 4979-metre 18-hole, easy walking course, but motorized carts are available. Many holes have benign names such as “The Terrace,” “The Pines,” and “The Oaks” and so they are. But the par 3, 5th hole, “The Wrecker” is ominously and aptly titled. Luckily, I make it up a nasty ridge onto the green in three and two-putt. Geoff is on in one, but the tiered green plays havoc with his usually good putting skills. We tie the hole, both with double-bogeys.

Later chatting with a member, he describes his drives as “terrifying off-the-fairway shots” on this fairly short course. Tomorrow is the Club Championship and he’s on the course trying to select just the right clubs to play, particularly the 284-metre 9th hole. He’s such a bit hitter, he’s been known to hit the clubhouse at the back of the green with his 3-iron in a favourable breeze!

Learn more in the “Birdies” book and read what follows in Chapter Seven

Sampling Hanmer’s Hot Pot…

Once in a Brew Moon…

This way to crayfish…

Tipsy in Blenheim…

Golf Cluster Courses

Reviewers say the “Birdies” book is a good read filled with suggestions for accommodation, dining and side trips to interest the whole family.

ORDER Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing Around New Zealand online at www.wildwestcoastpublishing.com or e-mail info@wildwestcoastpublishing.com for special discounts.

And remember, when golfing in New Zealand all distances are in metres, so add ten percent to the metric length then roughly convert to what is still called “yardage.”

…North from Wellington off Highway 1 is Paraparaumu Beach

The Paraparaumu Golf Club course…though rather short…has punishing roughs, fast greens and fearsome bunkers…Just pray for a calm day as forceful coastal winds off the Tasman Sea give Paraparaumu “big teeth” to gobble up any hope of a good score.

The history of its development is unique… In 1929 the first nine holes were laid out, then a second nine was added in 1937. The “modern” course was conceived three years later. Alex Russell, former Australian Open Champion and Dr. Alistair McKenzie, both renowned course architects, redesigned the layout and in 1949 the course was finally completed.

The great Australian golfer, Peter Thomson, winner of the British Open on five occasions and nine times New Zealand Open champion…had this to say about the course:

“I loved it instantly. We had nothing like it in Australia which must have struck Alex Russell…What was left after his departure was a gem of enjoyment, a monument to the game and a gift to the future. When we all turn to dust, Paraparaumu should be still lying there as it was when the first golfers came by, with Kapiti an off-shore island standing guard to see that no one steals it away. And the winds will ever blow to test the golfer’s will and integrity. Paraparaumu will be famed for a century yet.”

The resident Golf Professional here is Alan Currie. A scratch golfer at the age of 13, he represented his native Scotland at junior and senior levels, winning the Scottish Schoolboy, Scottish Junior crowns and the Order of Merit title, to name just a few.

I appreciate his helpful advice: “Take a few practice swings and relax.”

My modus operandi has usually been to take aim and fire, rather than think of the many things I should be doing.

Current comment: Perhaps that’s why I’m having trouble breaking a 40 handicap. Ah no, it’s my short game I tell myself!

Learn more about golfing the North Island in the “Birdies” book

To follow in Chapter Eight:

Surfing Beneath A Misty Old Mountain…

Finding The Lost Highway…

All Steamed Up At Taupo…

Golfing With Sheep Back To Auckland…

Golf Cluster Courses

Reviewers say the “Birdies” book is a good read filled with suggestions for accommodation, dining and side trips to interest the whole family.

ORDER Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing Around New Zealand online at www.wildwestcoastpublishing.com or e-mail info@wildwestcoastpublishing.com for special discounts.

And remember, when golfing in New Zealand all distances are in metres, so add ten percent to the metric length then roughly convert to what is still called “yardage.”

New Zealand’s South Island is noted for a superb eco-tourism area — the Catlins. A 60,000 hectare place of awesome natural beauty, ranging from deserted beaches, dense forests, deep valleys, spectacular waterfalls and great walking tracks. There’s always a chance to view myriad native birds, sea elephants, leopard seals, sealions, New Zealand fur seals, Hector’s dolphins and our favourite – penguins…

Hearing we’re interested in penguins, local landowner Albert McTainsh points out nests of a yellow-eyed variety near the blowhole at the bottom of Florence Hill. To go penguin hunting, he suggests an overnight at Owaka then in the early morning, drive down to the hide at Roaring Bay near Nugget Point lighthouse to watch the penguins head out to sea for a day of fishing.

Although the 9-hole, par 35 course at the Owaka Golf Club is near our day’s destination, we follow Albert’s advice and arrive at Roaring Bay well before dawn. Perched on a hillside above the sea and just a short walk away from the small parking area near the Nugget Point lighthouse, we have the hide all to ourselves…

Within minutes we spot one yellow-eyed penguin standing outside its burrow built into a low bushy area near the beach. At first he faces he sea then looks around like a scout. When all appears clear he turns and calls to his partner then both hop about over the sharp rocks, toddle together on the smooth sand then within seconds on an incoming breaking wave, they’re in, under and out to sea for the day…

After a walk out to the lighthouse we sit on the cliffside and tally up our morning sitings: four sea lions, numerous gannets, seagulls, shags, oyster-catchers and two yellow-eyed penguins. Included in the list are two rabbits we failed to turn into roadkill. In our view rabbits are a pervasive, introduced species but they’re very nice for dinner.

Learn more about the Catlins and the South Island’s Southern Scenic Route in the “Birdies” book

To follow in Chapter five:

Waggling Bustles…

Scotland Revisited…

The Penny Farthing Tour…

The Blue Penguin Resort

Golf Cluster Courses

New Zealand’s Oldest Golf Course: Otago Golf Club – Balmacewan

Reviewers say the “Birdies” book is a good read filled with suggestions for accommodation, dining and side trips to interest the whole family.

ORDER Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing Around New Zealand online at www.wildwestcoastpublishing.com or e-mail info@wildwestcoastpublishing.com for special discounts.

And remember, when golfing in New Zealand all distances are in metres, so add ten percent to the metric length then roughly convert to what is still called “yardage.”

Hopeful of a pleasant afternoon, we purchase tickets in Christchurch to ride the Tranz-Alpine Express through the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps for an afternoon at Greymouth on the West Coast. A local old-timer at the station tells us the train is a bit of a bone-rattler and he’s not far from wrong. After some jolts and bumps, the train sets out across those pastoral Plains and gradually climbs up into the majestic mountains.

Suddenly the train violently lurches…  Passengers scurry for their seats and secure the luggage spilling out from the overhead racks. We’ve come to a halt on a high mountain pass in an absolutely pitch-black tunnel.

“We’re OK back here,” reports the Conductor in muffled tones into his two-way radio as he walks forward through our carriage.

For nearly an hour the passengers in our car sit in almost complete silence, waiting. Perhaps they’re thinking what I’m thinking. The train runs tight to the tunnel walls. How long is the tunnel? How long will we have fresh air to breath? How long will we be stuck here? How will we get out and will we ever get out?

Thirty minutes later the engine attempts to pull but lurches, then stops again.

Rather than carry his usual plastic garbage bag, a member of the food service staff walks through the carriage with a large flashlight. I can’t see how a flashlight is going to fix the problem…

Learn more in the “Birdies” book and read what follows in Chapter Six:

From Meadows To Mountains…

By George It’s British…

Pause For A Great Patriot…

The French Connection…

Golf Cluster Courses.

Reviewers say the “Birdies” book is a good read filled with suggestions for accommodation, dining and side trips to interest the whole family.

ORDER Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing Around New Zealand online at www.wildwestcoastpublishing.com or e-mail info@wildwestcoastpublishing.com for special discounts.

And remember, when golfing in New Zealand all distances are in metres, so add ten percent to the metric length then roughly convert to what is still called “yardage.”

]]> http://www.peopleandplacesblog.com/exciting-golf-game-in-new-zealand-set-aside-to-take-tranquil-train-ride-or-so-we-thought/feed/ 0 http://www.peopleandplacesblog.com/golfing-new-zealands-south-island-on-what-was-once-a-maori-trail-that-later-seemed-to-be-paved-in-gold-we-pass-a-string-of-womens-brassieres-of-all-shapes-and-sizes-golf-ahead-or/ http://www.peopleandplacesblog.com/golfing-new-zealands-south-island-on-what-was-once-a-maori-trail-that-later-seemed-to-be-paved-in-gold-we-pass-a-string-of-womens-brassieres-of-all-shapes-and-sizes-golf-ahead-or/#comments Sun, 13 Sep 2009 15:56:03 +0000 lizclark http://wildwestcoastpublishing.com/wp/?p=816 Excerpts from Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing around New Zealand

Driving the high country Crown Range Road in Central Otago we soon find ourselves on what was once a Maori trail that later seemed to be paved in gold…Along the way we pass what, at first, looks like Tibetan prayer flags strung out on a wire fence alongside the road. A second look defies belief.There are as many women’s brassieres as a lingerie store clerk would ever see in a lifetime – all colours, all shapes, and all sizes. And all flirtily flapping in the morning breeze.

Pondering this unusual exhibition, I review a brochure for activities in the area. It’s the site of the Monster Mountain Rally. There’s a circuit for kids to race 50cc Suzuki Quadmaster bikes, but more to the point in my investigation, there’s an Off-Road section for big guys giving “a full speed, high-octane rally experience with all the grunts and thrills of a World Rally Stage.” The big dudes get to slide sideways on gravel, get briefly airborne, then get wasted in water all in a Subaru or Mitsubishi “evolution rallying beast.” Now the flying bras makes sense. Definitely trophies!

Learn more about New Zealand’s Wild West in the “Birdies” book.

To follow in Chapter Four:

Bungy to Oblivion…

Snuggling Up In Blanket Bay…

The Blue Cork And Lackadaisical Lumps…

Next Port – Antarctica…

Golf Cluster Courses

Reviewers say the “Birdies” book is a good read filled with suggestions for accommodation, dining and side trips to interest the whole family.

ORDER Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing Around New Zealand online at www.wildwestcoastpublishing.com or e-mail info@wildwestcoastpublishing.com for special discounts.

And remember, when golfing in New Zealand all distances are in metres, so add ten percent to the metric length then roughly convert to what is still called “yardage.”

As often happens during an unplanned road trip, we stop at the first accommodation sign we see when we’re ready to call it quits. At Murchison we lay claim to the last available cottage…closely beating out another couple caught in the competition for limited accommodation but perhaps they were the lucky ones… Perhaps they found digs at the 5-star Owen River or Murchison Lodge and were enjoying their evening around a log fire with a fine glass or red or maybe a “wee dram” of single malt, while we have a humble bite to eat at the local cafe and I freeze the night away in our modest, last cottage…I wish I’d brought long woolly underwear and my floppy wool tam that was great on family visits to England. I wonder, is this the first of many nights, and days, where I’m caught in too-thin knickers?

…There’s a few more things to say about little Murchison – some very interesting and some very disturbing. It was given that name, as was nearby Mount Murchison, in honour of the Scottish geologist Sir Roderick Impey Murchison, one of the founders of the Royal Geographical Society. This whole area was part of the golf rush that lasted until the late 19th century. Notorious gold prospector and hotel proprietor, Scotsman George Fairweather Moonlight, a self-styled “leader-cum-sheriff” still leaves his mark on the community. There must have been plenty of hot times in the ol’ town way back then!

Long after the golf fever subsided, this quiet rural community had the misfortune to be near the epicentre of a major quake on 17 June 1929. So violent were the earth’s movements that Murchison was reduced to rubble and ten residents lost their lives. The upthrusts, subsidence and slips (landslides) have totally changed the topography of this area.

Learn more about the Murchison/Buller area in the “Birdies” book.

To follow in Chapter Three:

Attack Of The Sandflies…

Choosing A Beer to Complement A Good Possom Pie…

Eels At Hokitika And Racks At Haast…

Wanaka Fairways…

Golf Cluster Courses

Reviewers say the “Birdies” book is a good read filled with suggestions for accommodation, dining and side trips to interest the whole family.

ORDER: Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing Around New Zealand online at www.wildwestcoastpublishing.com or e-mail info@wildwestcoastpublishing.com for special discounts.

And remember, when golfing in New Zealand all distances are in metres, so add ten percent to the metric length then roughly convert to what is still called “yardage.”

…Play a different course almost every day of a two-week vacation on the Coromandel Peninsula and still have plenty of time to swim, stroll long stretches of soft sand beach and visit the many small towns that dot the 72-kilometre coastal circuit then head south to Rotorua’s really, really hot spots! One of the best experiences in the Rotorua area is a Hangi, a Maori celebration for visitors that dates back many hundreds of years. Greeting rituals, interpretative displays, performances and an excellent banquet cooked traditionally on hot rocks in an earthen oven highlights our evening at Tamaki Maori Village just outside the city. While a less rustic Hangi conducted inside a local hotel is pleasant enough, a forested village setting gives a more realistic view of life in pre-European days…

Another fun activity invented and manufactured at Rotorua is Zorbing. A Zorb, likened to a human-sized hamster ball, is a huge clear plastic air-cushioned orb weighing up to 90 kilograms which reaches speeds of 40 kph while racing downhill — with a person strapped inside. All the violent bouncing is absorbed by the bigger outer transparent ball while you spin like an intoxicated rodent. Adding wet insult to injury, Liquid-Zorbing is all the rage. Two or three buckets of water are introduced to the mix, while the person inside is let loose to tumble out of control. I’d imagine the operators get a release signed before letting innocent victims try that trick.

More akin to our physical abilities, we make lifting an ale a pleasant experience at the Pig & Whistle City Bar. Through the Oink, Oink doors, this is a great place for pub-style gatherings. Although we’ll miss the Friday “Squeeler” for dancing to live music and other entertainments, I enjoy quaffing a halfpint of their Swine Lager and Geoff, a Snout Dark Ale.

Learn more about Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty area in the “Birdies” book

To follow in Chapter Two:

Games Galore on Coromandel…

The Hinterland Wonderland…

The Longest Place Name…

Great Golfers and their Classic Courses

Golf Cluster Courses

Reviewers say the “Birdies” book is a good read filled with suggestions for accommodation, dining and side trips to interest the whole family.

ORDER: Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing Around New Zealand online at www.wildwestcoastpublishing.com or e-mail info@wildwestcoastpublishing.com for special discounts.

And remember, when golfing in New Zealand all distances are in metres, so add ten percent to the metric length then roughly convert to what is still called “yardage.”

What could possibly go wrong? It’s a perfect mid-October spring morning in New Zealand with the sun beaming down from a cloudless sky. Heading north from the Auckland airport with golf clubs safely stowed in “Silver,” our Toyota hatchback rental, Geoff and I are all set to play a round of golf before day’s end. No problem.

Only thirty minutes north of Auckland off Highway 16 we turn west to Muriwai Beach. From a high cliff overlooking a beautiful cove on the Tasman Sea, gannets ride warm thermals above the light surf where children belly-board back to the sandy beach below. The Muriwai Golf Club is just a stone’s throw away and promises to offer a great beginning to our golfing tour. From the clubhouse the view across to Oaia Island, the offshore “haystack,” looks like a giant stepping-stone to infinity from Muriwai’s gradually descending and gently rolling fairways.

While waiting to sign in to play this reasonably priced par 72, 18-hole course, we review the score card. Remembering all distances in New Zealand are in metres, we add ten percent to the metric length then roughly convert to what is still called “yardage.”

“Sorry,” says the cheerful Lady Starter in a kindly manner that shows she’s often the bearer of negative news. “The course is fully booked today.”

So close to Auckland, we should have known to call ahead to reserve a tee time. We’re very disappointed.

“There’s always tomorrow,” replies Geoff confidently. “Could you book us in for an early round in the morning?”

“Most certainly, though I should mention, we’re expecting blustery west winds and heavy rainfall, but no matter how hard it rains, Muriwai never closes. What time would you like?”

From past experience we’d learned wind and rain make miserable golfing partners. Sadly we wave a limp goodby and head north, hopefully to better weather.

Learn more about touring Northland in the “Birdies” book.

To follow in Chapter One:

Beyond The Black Swamp Road…

Some Scottish History…

Like Father Like Son…

The Maori Legacy And Rainy Cape Reinga…

A Cluster Of Courses

Reviewers say the “Birdies” book is a good read filled with suggestions for accommodation, dining and side trips to interest the whole family.

ORDER: Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing Around New Zealand online at www.wildwestcoastpublishing.com or e-mail info@wildwestcoastpublishing.com for special discounts.

The move back to a traditional January date for the New Zealand Open has pleased New Zealand Golf organizers who believe the timing of the tournament at the end of the summer holidays will prove a boon for their flagship professional tournament.

The 2009 championship was staged in mid-March with players and fans faced with freezing conditions in the early stages of the tournament at Arrowtown. Kiwi golfing legend and Open participant, Sir Bob Charles said, “My hands are white and I have absolutely no feeling in them in these conditions so my expectations are rather low.” Thankfully the weather warmed up for the finals but the move back to mid-summer will be appreciated by both players and the gallery.

New Zealand Golf CEO, Bill MacGowan says, “It’s still in the school holiday period which will allow families to come and watch some of the best golfers in the world in action, and especially a chance for young players, who might aspire to be the next Danny Lee or David Smail, to come along and watch.”

Tickets will be on sale from August 31 via TicketDirect on 0800 4 Ticket or via their website on www.ticketdirect.co.nz. More information at www.nzopengolf.co.nz.

A mini gallery of my 2009 Open pictures follows:

Discover more about the joys and challenges of golfing New Zealand by reading my book, “Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing Around New Zealand.” Mention my Blog and receive a discount!

Discover more about the setting in the Remarkables mountains and foothills for these Winter Games. Fletcher Living has created an amazing high-country haven at Jack’s Point on the shores of brilliant Lake Wakatipu. Twice I’ve visited and plan to return again and again to golf on the most amazing 18-hole championship course, and to be tempted into a staying longer than just a short-term holiday, in one of the beautiful, functional homes built by Fletcher Living.

Contact Kristi Howley at khowley@frl.co.nz and learn more about this outstanding residential development and about receiving the DVD that so beautifully reveals the wonderland that is Jack’s Point.

And discover more about Jack’s Point and how it got its name by reading about it my book, “Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis.”

Not only is your watch one of only 500 specially crafted for the Open but you likely had the opportunity, as I did, to meet one of the many attractive and charming salespersons at the Michael Hill Jeweller stores located around the world – Miss Prerna Shukla of Takapuna.

Now about the New Zealand Open golf tournament…

The 2009 Michael Hill New Zealand Open was held 12-15 March on New Zealand’s South Island in Arrowtown near the alpine resort town, Queenstown at The Hills – a great name that well describes the course’s hilly terrain in the shadow of The Remarkables mountain range and relates to that of the Title Sponsor: Michael Hill Watches.

The Hills

The fun began with special community activities and tours of interest for all including non-golfing folks visiting the region. The appropriately-named “Guilty Bar” was at one time the original court house in Queenstown. It was the official Michael Hill New Zealand Open bar where players, caddies, sponsors, media and visitors could mix and mingle, especially on Friday the 13th at the “Cut Party” for those players who did not make the cut. On Saturday night, the little town of Arrowtown held a Mardi Gras-style street party with the Arrowtown Festival Miners, Middle Earth and the Master Blasters bands raising the roof until, in the wee hours, Flame Fire Productions put on a spectacular fire show.

The games began, in many minds, with the announcement that Kiwi golfing legend Sir Bob Charles, the first left-hander to win a major golf tournament – the 1963 British Open, and four times the New Zealand Open champion, decided, although “retired,” to enter the game he loves rather than be a bystander.

Sir Bob Charles

Earlier in the week on the day of the Pro-Am round, the weather took a turn for the worse and although familiar with severe weather changes in New Zealand, Sir Bob said, “My hands are white and I have absolutely no feeling in them in these conditions so my expectations are rather low.”

But imagine the high on being selected as one of the amateurs to play along  with Charles and other professionals in the Pro-Am. Christchurch businessman, David Reid tells us his experience that day.

“After several weeks of anticipation, the big day arrived – the Pro-Am at The Hills! The day dawned very cloudy and very cold. Our tee time was originally 7:45 a.m. but one member of our four had flown down from Auckland on the same day so he had the tee time changed to the afternoon. A very wise move as it turned out for the morning players had far worse weather conditions than the afternoon players.

“All assembled for a team talk to be advised of the competition, to meet our Professional and find out the hole we would start the competition on. Our Pro was a wonderful guy from Florida by the name of Kevin Johnson.

Our starting hole was the 18th so we all loaded into our golf carts and off we went. I was lucky enough to share the cart with our Pro. It had snowed on The Remarkables the night before so it didn’t take very long before we were absolutely freezing.

“The 18th – what a hole! – a 450-metre par 4 split dogleg right from an elevated tee block looking down to the green and the Clubhouse. Unfortunately we didn’t start all that well. We bogied the hole. But fortunately our round improved. We carried on over the next few holes level with the card and were lucky enough to have a couple of birdies thanks to our Pro.

“The most memorable holes for me are the 18th (our first hole); the 4th – a very long par 3 (rewarding a good shot and severely penalizing a bad one); the 10th – a great little 149-metre par 3 (again a hole that is laid out so well it’s all risk and reward); and the 15th. This hole has a great elevated tee block from where you get a wonderful view of a large part of the course. A very short, 301-metre par 4. A number of the Pros drove the green and one Pro holed in one!

“My overall impression of The Hills golf course: It’s magnificent with extremely well laid out hole locations throughout this undulating hill country. I’d love to play it again, knowing what I now know, and I’m sure the more you play this course, the more one would enjoy it. Our Pro, Kevin Johnson made the cut and finished with a creditable score of -9 overall.”

And what a great finishing round Kevin had: a 66!

The sun shone brightly on the final day, the gallery had a fine time (especially on #15, the Party Hole) while the players intently focused on making the most of their last round. We followed a crowd-pleasing Aussie favourite, Craig Parry – knick-named “Popeye” for his exceptionally well-developed forearms!

Craig Parry on the 17th

As the crowds gathered around the 18th green, the Leader Board confirmed the winners: Alex Prugh with a -19; Martin Piller with -16; and Jim Herman with -14.  Six players, including Craig Parry, tied for 4th place.

We’d heard it would be quite a finale and so it was. All heads turned as the stirring sounds of a Scottish pipe band filled the air. As they marched up the 18th fairway, the excitement began to build. Then with a tremendous, thundering roar, three black helicopters zoomed down over the 18th flying low over the crowds with one landing to bring the Guest of Honour, Sir Bob Charles. Like a youngster, he hopped down and strode up to the podium joining the group gathered for the award presentations. At the appropriate time he placed upon the shoulders of the Open Winner, Alex Prugh of the United States, the meaningful and intricately-woven Mauri feathered cape in recognition of Prugh’s great achievement.

Alex Prugh - USA

After heart-warming speeches that honoured the community and the many volunteers, the 2009 Michael Hill New Zealand Open concluded with fireworks and the thunder of canon shot from the roof of the Clubhouse. I guess we all had a good time. Not really… I’m sure we all had a terrific time!

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My thanks to the New Zealand Open Golf for the photographs of Sir Bob Charles and Alex Prugh.

Special thanks to David Reid for sharing his experience playing in the Michael Hill New Zealand Open Pro-Am. Dave is Manager of Copyland Digital Print, Christchurch and with his great production and design team, printed the updated issue of my book:  “Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing Around New Zealand” – now available locally by emailing either lizclark@rockisland.com or info@wildwestcoastpublishing.com.

Maungatautari

Of all the mountains in the world, New Zealand’s Maungatautari is unique. At one time its forested slopes and pristine bush streams nurtured a wide variety of invertebrates and indigenous birds, many flightless, like the iconic and vulnerable kiwi bird, but today, a 47-kilometre-long fence encloses what remains of a once-wonderous living and breathing ecosystem. Why a fence? What’s it all about?

During a recent trip to New Zealand’s North Island, my husband and I visited the extinct volcanic mountain: Maungatautari. Located two hours southeast of Auckland or a short drive south of Cambridge, we asked our hosts at the “Out in the Styx” B&B that very question. ”Why a fence around a mountain top?” Hosts Lance and Mary Hodgson provided some background.

Over time it became clear that the ravages of introduced mammals: rabbits, rats, stoats, possums, goats, deer, pig, domestic dogs, cats and even farm livestock, had threatened, to near extinction, Maungatautari’s wildlife by severely damaging its ecosystem and killing the offspring of many vulnerable species.

Dr. Tim Day, General Manager of Xcluder Pest Proof Fencing, shared this amazing story that led to the establishment of the Mangatautari Ecological Island Trust. Could a fence work wonders by protecting some 3,400 hectares of convoluted terrain?

“People were becoming increasingly disheartened with the never-ending task of trying to control or remove pest animals with traps or baits. A longer term solution was required…Originally designed for just one landowner, the Wallaces, it soon became clear there was a far-reaching desire amongst others to give effective fencing a go. It’s been fantastic, for me as an animal behaviour scientist, to see a project aimed at understanding the behaviour of pest animals turn into a practical tool that works in the real world and is making a difference. Now a few years on from those initial research beginnings, many of the more than twenty fences we’ve built are safe havens for threatened birds, plants, lizards and fish. It’s rewarding stuff!…”

No ordinary fence to install, the one around Maungatautari was a mammoth job. Covering a distance of 47 kilometres, the fence crossed 42 waterways, used 50,000 batons, 8,500 posts, 240 km of wire and 100,000 square metres of stainless steel mesh. Not one gap in it is larger than 6 mm for anything larger would allow juvenile mice to get through. The electronic surveillance system quickly notifies staff if there are any problems like a tree falling on the fence, and the entire enclosure is inspected regularly by a group of trained and enthusiastic volunteers.

As Dr. Day said, “The Maungatautari Ecological Island is by far the largest and most ambitious of pest-proof fenced sanctuaries around the country and one can’t help but admire the tireless efforts of the countless volunteers who make the project tick. The Xcluder Pest Proof Fencing company has given Maungatautari a tool to assist them, but it is the passion and commitment of those involved that are ensuring the biological gains!”

On the day of our visit to Maungatautari we were fortunate to meet docent, Marilyn Mackinder. My husband entered the Reserve though a security gate and walked up the well-maintained path to the join other visitors at an aviary. As I rode with Marilyn on her ATV alongside this impressive fence, she pointed out unique design elements that would deter small mammals.

“We’re very much aware of the damage that could be done if one small mouse gained entry or was dropped into the Reserve from, say, the talons of an owl. Fortunately though, over the past several months we’ve not spotted signs of a single mouse.”

At the large aviary, we were introduced to her special charges on loan from the Auckland Zoo: a breeding pair of endangered kaka (kakapo parrots). Occasionally their two fledglings would flop about in valiant attempts to strengthen their wings. Soon they’d be strong enough to fly in freedom throughout the forest with their older siblings.

Upon hearing Marilyn’s approach, the extended family of kaka birds began to make their presence known by chattering in a typical parrot-like manner. As they flew closer, four beautiful kakas peeked at us through the trees. Advancing cautiously, they waited for Marilyn to place a few peanut treats and a bit of watered-down honey in the feeding station — a grand opportunity for us to observe their behaviour before they flew off again into the forest.

To enjoy the Reserve from a bird’s perspective, we climbed the nearby 16-metre-high viewing tower. Within seconds we’re treated to the bell-like tone of a bird’s song. Through filtered sunlight we caught a glimpse of a small bird, a bellbird’s fledgling, wobbling uncertainly on a branch while being fed a berry from a native bush. Too soon, a  breeze through the canopy hides this intimate experience.

Restoration, maintenance and re-introduction of threatened species like the kiwi bird and many others is well underway. Important too, is the opportunity to provide a meaningful educational facility for school groups, visitors and researchers.

Just over ten years ago a grassroots impetus began with individual contributions and committed volunteers. Then, with international Corporations, Trusts and several New Zealand government departments actively supporting the Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust, their conservation objectives began to flourish.

As visitors we wondered how to contribute to this special endeavour. All our questions were answered on the Trust’s website: www.maungatrust.org. As their motto states: SHARE THE DREAM. We did!

N.B.–The Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust is registered as a Charitable Organization in the U.S.A. under Section 501(c)(3).

Our thanks to Dr. Tim Day, John Scott, Marilyn Mackinder, our hosts at the “Out in the Styx” B&B, and to Mark and Gaylene Eyre: view “Golfing with a Waikato Girl” on my Blog for more information on Maungatautari and other treasures in the Waikato area.

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Photo credits: kiwi chick contributed by Nature Photographer, Phil Brown; kaka photo by Geoff Lemon; mountain-top map courtesy the Maungatautari Trust; Maungatautari in morning mist and the fence view by the Blog’s author, Liz Clark.

“I’ve been asked to give you a bit of information on our golf club – Hawarden Golf Club here in Hawarden, North Canterbury, New Zealand. We have a very nice and challenging 9-hole course in the sheep farming area of Canterbury.

“The club has a part-time green keeper and he only does about 20 hours a week.* The remainder of the work is done by club members. It is not unusual on club working “bee” days to see a couple of tractors and graders working around the course. Many members are farmers which is a great help. Being a small club with a membership of less than 100 we do have limited resources. For example we don’t have a fairway watering system. Consequently during the time of drought in summer it’s like playing off concrete! The benefits are that even with a duff shot one can usually get enough run to make an awful shot a bit better.

“When I first moved to live in Hawarden after living many years in the city of Christchurch, and after playing my golf at a manicured, 18-hole  town club I had this great conception that my handicap would come tumbling down. My thinking was that as it is a 9-hole course and to play our 18-hole game we have to play each hole twice. So, I thought that this has got to be easy as I would soon master the course with two “goes” at each hole during every round. Oh dear, my handicap and my theory went out the window and my handicap went out by about 3 shots!

“The other feature of our club is the notorious Nor’wester wind that blows across our course. This is illustrated by several trees around the course that are growing at an angle of 45 degrees! It’s an interesting sight when playing during a strong Nor’wester when having a putt, to watch your golf trolley going past under it’s own steam, ‘wind assisted!’

“Our feature hole, in my opinion, is number 4 , also it is number 13 on the ‘back’ 9. This has a spectacular view of Mount Tekoa in the Southern Alps. On the adjoining fairway of #14 is the revered ‘Gin Tree.’ If you play your ball into it you have to buy a G&T for your playing partners! Contrary to popular belief regarding some North Canterbury golf courses, Hawarden doesn’t have its greens fenced to keep animals from grazing and we do not have to round up and move sheep before the day’s play can begin!”

Men’s day: Saturdays at 12:30 pm

Ladies: Tuesdays at 9:30 am

Twilight is Wednesdays at 5:30 pm

There’s an “honour box” at clubhouse front door for the nominal green fees.

Tim’s description of Hawarden in drought conditions is similar to those on our 9-hole course. Spoiled by playing on manicured courses, many find it difficult to play on “concrete,” and as well cope with sloping fairways on what was once a grazing pasture in the 1960’s. No cattle nor sheep now, but those free-flying Canada Geese make a heck of a mess around the ponds and wetland areas. For all the challenges would we change our little course with all its “hazards?” No way!

And for those who would like to visit and perhaps overnight in the area, Tim recommends Hanmer Springs, an alpine township about 40 minutes from Harwarden and about 1.5 hours from Christchurch. Nice walks, scenic golf course, trout rivers and at Hanmer Springs, a uniquely-designed thermal pool complex for all the family to enjoy. Avoid holidays and weekends for a less crowded visit. A few area websites are: www.hurunui.com –  www.alpinepacifictourism.co.nz - www.hanmersprings.co.nz – www.hanmersprings.co.nz/thermal/pools.

*A recent update from Tim states that “the green keeper is now……..me! I do one day a week, usually Fridays with one other member. It does not pay much but keeps me in beer!”

Tim’s tips on local digs:

“Accommodation is limited in Hawarden apart from some very basic cabins at the back of our local pub. (A great meeting place on a Saturday afternoon for local golfers). I also have a Dutch couple of friends (Rein and Gertuud) who run a home stay operation just out of Hawarden. Their place is called ‘The Dutch Station.’ They’re a nice couple and have ‘Dutch golf’  which is fun to play. It’s a bit like pitch and putt but the clubs are sticks with a clog on the end and the balls are about the size of tennis balls. Fun and games only 3 minutes from the golf course too. Their web site is www.thedutchstation.com.

“There’s also ‘Tulloch Glas,’ a two-unit motel in a small place just 8kms from Hawarden. The phone number is (03)3144931 and the place name is Waikari – the terminus of the Weka Pass Railway.”

WEKA PASS RAILWAY

Like many other railway lines destined for dereliction around the world,  a group of dedicated volunteers have preserved the Weka Pass Railway as part of New Zealand’s rail heritage. Restored locos, cars, coaches and track have recreated a unique treat for passengers – a train ride that takes them back to a long-ago time through the picturesque Weka Pass.  

In the early 1880’s many men worked tirelessly to move tons of clay and limestone by hand to excavate all the cuttings and construct large embankments. Amazingly the Pass was completed in just over two years.

During our planned visit to the South Island this year my husband and I will ride the historic Weka Pass Railway along its 12.8 km scenic line. As a steam train buff, Geoff hopes rather than ride the vintage diesel-electric, we’ll once again enjoy the chuff, chuff, chuff of a vintage coal-fired steam locomotive – the 1909-built “A” Class “Pacific” number 428 – the only one of it’s type still operational..

From Waipara the loco will puff contentedly through gently sloping farmland passing a large irrigation reservoir alongside row upon row of thirsty vineyards. When #428 begins to strain along winding track leading into high country the crew will raise full steam to climb grades as steep as 1:50 (2%).

The Frog Rock

In the heart of the Pass we’ll look for Frog Rock and Seal Rock, limestone rocks affected by constant weathering. And because these lands were once under the sea, perhaps we’ll see marine fossils and shells imbedded in the cutting walls. Then at Waikari the loco will turn around for the return trip to Waipara – No runaway trains on the down grade please! 

Thanks to Tim for the great map of the area showing other interesting destinations: The Star & Garter Pub, the Historic Hurunui Hotel and Pub overlooking the rushing Hurunui River and the Canterbury House Winery which is now known as “The Mud House.” It still has a restaurant and makes wine but under “The Mud House” label. So there you are – a comprehensive rundown on touring the Harwarden to Hamner Springs area. And thanks again, Tim for taking time out from fishing!

The purse will be upped to $175,000 at the second annual Women’s New Zealand  Open. Decision to play again at Clearwater Resort is uncertain at this time.

Read all about it at www.press.co.nz – www.nzherald.co.nz and www.thecanadianpress.com – click on sports and dig a bit –  pictures, too.

circa 1908

Long sought after, at last New Zealand Golf succeeds in staging the inaugural New Zealand Women’s Open Championship to be held on January 30th to February 1st at the beautiful Clearwater Golf Club in Christchurch. The purse of $150,000 is made possible by the Women’s Golf New Zealand Fund which was established in 2005 during the amalgamation of Women’s Golf with the New Zealand Golf Association. This Open is the first professional golf tournament for women in the country since 1975 and is drawing top golfers Laura Davies and Katherine Hull to name but two.

A graduate of Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, Australian Katherine Hull was the first world-class player to sign up for the Open. Greg Ford of the Sunday Star Times, the country’s national newspaper, reports that “Hull ‘fell in love’ with the South Island while on a road trip with her sister this year and needed no convincing when promoter Bob Tuohy asked if she’d return with her clubs. ‘It’s my favourite place on Earth,’ she said. ‘I’m serious. I hiked the Milford Track, visited Christchurch, Queenstown and Greymouth. New Zealand is beautiful. I loved every minute of it and can’t wait to come back.’”

Katherine Hull - 2008 Canadian Women's Open Winner

Katherine wowed them at the 2008 CN Canadian Women’s Open at the Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club in August when she increased her lead to two strokes over threatening Yani Tseng then maintained her lead for a one-stroke victory over Se Ri Pak who challenged from behind to finish second with back-to-back birdies.  In her fifth year on the world’s richest tour for women this win was a breakthrough proving her determination to top the leaderboard. Katherine’s final score: 68-70-68-72=278, -10.

More world-class women golfers are lining up to participate in this inaugural event. “There’s no doubt,” says New Zealand Golf CEO Bill MacGowan, “the profile of women’s golf in New Zealand will benefit as a result and…will attract players from the Australian, European and US Tours, many of whom will be visiting New Zealand for the first time.” 

As well, the New Zealand Women’s Open championship will now be part of the Australian Ladies’ Professional Golf Tour, a four-tournament schedule which includes the New South Wales Open, the Australian Women’s Open and the Ladies Masters reports Christchurch City Libraries. And thanks to CC Libraries for the grand photograph of Kiwi, Miss Cowlishaw competing in the fashionable style of the day at Christchurch Golf Club’s Easter Tournament held at the Shirley Links in April 1908.

About Clearwater Golf Course and Resort

Extract from “Birdies, Bogeys and Kiwis: Golfing Around New Zealand“

A member of the prestigous The Best of Golf New Zealand, Clearwater Resort is only a fifteen-minute drive from Christchurch city and about seven minutes from the airport. This par 72, 6526-metre 18-hole course is playable 12 months of the year. Tee times are much in demand so it’s wise to book ahead. The course meanders around several spring-fed lakes and streams that teem with wild Brown and Rainbow trout. Designed by John Darby in consultation with Sir Bob Charles-World Golf Hall of Fame 2008 inductee, the cunning design manages to give players uninterrupted views of the Southern Alps. Fly fishing, tennis, cycling and strolling the Resort’s trails are all terrific alternatives to challenging this impressive golf course. 

Remember these dates and be part of this inaugural event: 30 January to 1 February 2009. Get tickets from www.ticketdirect. co.nz.  

To order my “Birdies” book go to www.wildwestcoastpublishing.com and click on “Order Here.” PayPal available.