The regional golf landscape is set for a shake-up this autumn as the Gibbston Valley Golf Course prepares for its official public opening in March 2026.
The par-32 layout, designed by former New Zealand professional Greg Turner, aims to bridge the gap between championship-level challenge and the time constraints of the modern traveler.
A Focus on “Short Format” Golf
Constructed over the last two years, the nine-hole course occupies a dramatic river terrace overlooking the Kawarau Gorge. Unlike traditional 18-hole courses that often require a four-to-five-hour commitment, this layout consists of five par-fours and four par-threes, with the longest hole stretching 307 meters.
Director Jesus Santos says the design is a direct response to changing player demographics.
“Most people want to play golf but they don’t want to be away from their families all day,” Santos said. “Our goal is to create a golf course that accommodates the new needs of the modern golfer. Here, people can play nine, have lunch with a glass of wine, and then be back with their families.”
Natural Hazards and Historic Terrain
The course’s aesthetic and difficulty are defined by the region’s rugged history. Rather than installing traditional sand bunkers, Turner’s design utilizes:
Natural rock formations as striking visual hazards.
Historic mine tailings left over from the gold rush era.
Broad, undulating fairways paired with intricate green complexes.
A unique architectural highlight includes two double greens shared by holes 1 and 8, and holes 2 and 5.
Global Attention and Grand Opening
The course has already garnered international interest, recently hosting Canadian former pro and social media personality Mac Boucher during the filming of a global golf travel series. Boucher praised the layout for its accessibility across all skill levels.
While the course is currently accessible to Gibbston Valley Lodge guests and resort property owners, the public launch is timed to coincide with the NZ Open (February 26 – March 1).
The March 2026 opening will mark the completion of a full suite of luxury amenities, including:
A boutique Clubhouse and Pro Shop.
A gym and heated pool.
On-site jacuzzi facilities.
