KEY POINTS:
Experienced New Zealand golfer and former US PGA Tour player Phil Tataurangi has received an invitation to compete in this week's $1.5 million New Zealand Open at the Hills.
Tataurangi, who failed to progress to the final stage of this year's United States PGA tour, has a best finish in the New Zealand Open of third in 1998.
Rising Australian Ricky Kulacz, who has made a favourable impression in his rookie professional year, has also received a sponsor's invite.
The young Western Australian was well-placed after 36 holes of the Australian Masters at Huntingdale after rounds of 70 and 69, but had to settle for a share of 24th after weekend scores of 72 and 73.
Other invitations have been extended to Welshman Rhys Davies, New Zealand professionals Tony Christie, Richard Lee, Grant Moorhead, Mark Purser, and European Senior Tour players Simon Owen and Jim Lapsley. They will join the professionals already assured of their places after qualifying through other worldwide tours.
Meanwhile, a swag of withdrawals have reduced today's field for the final qualifying stage for the Michael Hill NZ Open from 90 to 64.
The top 14 players after 18 holes of qualifying at Millbrook will gain starts in the tournament proper.
- NZPA
