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Profile
The keenest golfers in the world seem to share one common opinion when it comes to the style of golf course they most enjoy playing. Quite simply it is this: ' "A well-presented and challenging links course is the game's ultimate test". Paraparaumu Beach, situated on the Kapiti Coast, just 40 minutes north of Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, fits this description to a 'tee'!
Due to the foresight of Stronach Paterson, the founder of the Club, and his friend Mr D.O. Whyte who, in the 1940s jointly gained the support to buy the land and then employed famed golf architect Alex Russell, New Zealand gained a classic links course which has now hosted the New Zealand Open Championship 12 times.
The 2001 edition of Golf World rated Paraparaumu Beach 95th in the world. Many of the world's top professionals have rated it more of a challenge than that, particularly when the championship tees are at their full length and pin placements have been plotted by someone with a devious sense of cunning. Appropriately, the course record of 62 is shared by 1963 British Open Champion, New Zealander Sir Bob Charles, Maurice Bembridge, Paul Gow and Brad Iles. Playing the course off the championship tees, you may agree that this record may well stand for all time.
Four sets of tees allow each club golfer to set his or her own test of skill. From the blue championship tees, shots to the par three holes can be quite daunting for, while there is not an over-abundance of bunkers, straight hitting and correct clubbing is a premium to avoid playing from the deep and steep hollows which border many of the greens. Whilst the 185 metre 2nd hole may be longer, the 16th hole, 126 metres and all carry to an island green, leaves little room for error and must be closely related to the infamous Postage Stamp par 3 at Troon, well known to the architect Alex Russell.
Of the longer holes, the par 4, 408 metre 13th is a classic. From the tee the vista is of a roller-coaster fairway with the green set atop a huge sandhill. Woe betide the short or long shot into this green. The backdrop of the majestic mountains, snow-capped in winter, makes this not only a great hole, but truly spectacular. The split fairway par 4, 404 metre 17th, leaves the golfer the conundrum whether to play the shorter route and hit the second 'cross green' and over bunkers - or to take the high road for the safer second shot.
Without a doubt, every hole at Paraparaumu has its own character and many are named, albeit unofficially, after famous golfers who were beaten by the hole. But the social golfer should not be intimidated, for sensible play and nice iron shots will produce their just reward on this tough but fair examination.
BUSINESS OR PLEASURE
For non-playing companions there are lots of local activities and place of interest to visit such as a day trip to the renowned nature reserve on Kapiti Island, a visit to Lindale Village with its famous cheeses and treasure trove of souvenirs, or Southwards Car Museum, home to some of the Southern Hemispheres rarest and most exotic automobiles.
A GREAT PLACE TO RELAX
The Club has a full time caterer who can provide for the hungry golfer before and after their round. Full luncheons and dinner service are available (with prior notice) for corporate days. The bar stocks a comprehensive wine list and a wide range of beers, spirits and liqueurs. Relax at the end of your round with your playing companions and celebrate your round in the lounge or on the verandah which offers spectacular views of the golf course. The facility is available for hire for a variety of functions - eg weddings, business conferences etc.
CORPORATE GOLF DAYS
The club runs regular Corporate Golf Days. We provide an action packed, value for money day for our corporate clients including snacks and pre golf briefing, competitive golf, the prizes, post round drinks and meals.
Our golf services team are highly experienced in staging Corporate days and their expertise will result in our Corporate participants thoroughly enjoying themselves in a competitive but relaxing and fun environment.
Corporate day packages are tailored to suit the particular needs of the client.
GOLF SHOP
The golf shop is one of New Zealand's best club shops and is fully stocked with, shoes, clothing and golf accessories. A complete hire fleet of graphite clubs, trundlers and buggies is available. A PGA Professional is also available for golf tuition.
MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS
A wide range of club membership options are available including Full Playing Men and Women. Nine hole, Junior (under 19 and under 25, under 28 and under 30), Restricted and Seasonal. Enquire at the office for further information.
GREEN FEES
Our green fees provide excellent value for money taking into account the International class nature of the layout and its place in the World's Top 100 courses.
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