"I think the public reaction was generally one of awe, and I think perhaps that was shared by some of the marshals on the course," he said.
"People experienced a bit of Tigermania today. Nobody in New Zealand has really ever been through this before - particularly on a golf course. Today was an experience for all the guys out there. Everyone learned from it."
Spectators rushed to the 10th tee shortly after Woods arrived at midday to catch a glimpse of his first shot on New Zealand soil.
Many of 9923-strong crowd then raced around the course's hills to follow his nine-hole performance.
One spectator, echoing the sentiments of many others, said: "At least I've seen him play a shot".
By the time Woods had reached the 18th green, a big gallery had gathered - leaving police and security guards struggling to get their man through to his marquee.
Crowds of more than 20,000 are expected to attend the Open this weekend, and organisers expect a smoother ride for spectators.
"It's important to remember that on practice day the course is not set up the same as during the tournament," Mr Pool said. "The public won't be able to go around the area near the clubhouse and other areas that they could today."
Organisers were happy with the size of the crowd, he said. Police said the day had provided them with a good dress rehearsal for later in the week, when crowds will be larger.
Woods, speaking at an afternoon press conference, complimented spectators on the way they had acted, and described them as respectful and courteous - even joking about a round of applause he received when he had barely hit the ball.
He had similar compliments for the Maori welcome that greeted him at Wellington Airport after his morning arrival in a sleek private jet. About 40 keen people peered through the airport's security fence to see Woods' welcome, one couple admitting they had changed their normal walking route to catch a glimpse of the star.
"We're not golfers, but by golly we're impressed by his salary," said Ian McKinnon.
"It's worth sparing some time early in the morning to come and see him."
Woods, surrounded by heavy security, was given a greenstone and a challenge when he stepped onto the tarmac, before being whisked to Paraparaumu in a swiftly moving motorcade - which included a black 4WD vehicle with tinted windows and several aerials sprouting from its roof.
A threat of disruption to the Open saw a police helicopter circling over the area as Woods arrived in Paraparaumu, several police posted at a bridge, and officers checking public train carriages.
The only security hiccup came when a rabbit shooter in farmland north of Wellington sparked an alert when he fired gunshots close to Woods' route to Paraparaumu.
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Full coverage: NZ Golf Open 2002
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Off the course: news related to the NZ Open
