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Tara Iti

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Built by renowned golf architect, Tom Doak, and opened in 2015, Tara Iti quickly rose to stardom as one of the best golf experiences on the planet.

Written on
September 14, 2022
Ranked as high as second by Golf Digest Top 100 Courses, within minutes of stepping on the property it is easy to see why.

This 6840-yard, par 71 course offers six different tee options and caters to players of all skill levels.

Fescue grass from tee to green and built into the sand dunes of Te Arai beach, Tara Iti offers one of the few traditional links-style courses in the southern hemisphere. With only two trees to be found on the entire course, you are left to battle the elements that come with links golf. Firm, fast and undulating surfaces coupled with a steady ocean breeze will reward creative shotmaking and an open mind to the different ways to attack each swing. With the Pacific Ocean visible from almost every hole, the raw beauty of the property combined with the masterstroke of course design and layout make Tara Iti a once-in-a-lifetime golfing experience. 

How to get there

Travel options to and from Tara Iti are limited due to the remote nature of the property. A two-hour car ride from Auckland Airport is the route most travelled, although if coming from the north it is also a two-hour drive from Kauri Cliffs/ Bay of Islands. There is also room to accommodate those who wish to travel by helicopter, in which case the flight time is thirty minutes from Auckland. 

Facilities and Caddies

Tara Iti offers world-class practice facilities including two separate driving ranges, short game areas, a large-scale putting green and a full indoor hitting bay/simulator setup. The in-house restaurant at the clubhouse provides a top-tier dining and bar experience with some of the finest local cuisine and draft drinks awaiting you after your round! Merchandise from shirts to hats, shoes to ball makers and everything in between ensures you can bring home a piece of your Tara Iti experience.

Tara Iti is a single-bag carry, walking-only course and is the first course in New Zealand to offer a full caddie program. Your experience will be enhanced by your own personal local caddie, helping you to not only find your way around the course layout but also give you advice on where and how to best play certain shots. Caddies are mandatory for all guest-play at the course and their astute course knowledge will make your Tara Iti experience all the more enjoyable.

Surrounding Activities and Scenery

Just ten minutes north of Tara Iti you will find the township of Mangawhai. A quaint, seaside town Mangawhai is known for its coastal beauty and vibrant local culture. Built-in from a large headland and right on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, Mangawhai offers a range of outdoor activities. Whether you are interested in learning to surf, fishing charters, or having a relaxing day hiking the coast and enjoying the pristine beaches, Mangawhai has a lot to offer. With several dining options ranging from local pubs to upscale local restaurants, you will have no trouble finding a spot to enjoy yourselves on any given night.  

Summary:

With the Pacific Ocean visible from almost every hole, the raw beauty of the property combined with the masterstroke of course design and layout make Tara Iti a once-in-a-lifetime golfing experience.