Golf: Whangaparaoa Golf Club

NZ Herald

21 Nov, 2016 02:36 AM2 mins to read

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Full name of the club: Whangaparaoa Golf Club

Physical address of the club: 1337 Whangaparaoa Road, Army Bay, Auckland

Brief history of the club: Opened in 1954 as a 9 hole course on borrowed land from farmer Jack Hobbs. In 1956 more land was donated by Jack to create 18 holes. In 1958 a committee was formed and the club bought 108 acres of nearby land and the current 18 hole course was built. The original clubhouse was built in 1959 and the current clubhouse was built and opened in 1995.

Key personnel: Jack Hobbs donated the land for the original course. Frank Nobilo officially opened the new clubhouse. Babe Cross has been a playing member for over 50 years. Our oldest playing member is Neil Harton who turns 100 in January 2017.

Course description: The course has a park like feel with plenty, but not too many trees and native bush. The undulating course has panoramic sea views both to the north and south. With an abundance of birds and wildlife you feel like you are miles away from our urban neighbours. The 18 hole layout measures 5,481 from the blue tees with par 71.

Best hole:The14th hole is the signature hole. A par 3 hole over a large lily pond. It feels like a little oasis in the park. You can hit across the lake or play it safe up the right hand side, but watch for the protective bunker at the front of the green. It catches many a short ball.

Best feature of the course: Located towards the end of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula our neighbours are a variety of lovely beaches, adjacent marina and predator free wildlife sanctuary. The club is well known for its friendly members and staff who will welcome you any day of the week. Also one of the best courses for value for money.

Course would best suit what type of player: The course layout has some testing fairways and challenging greens providing a balance and ease for golfers of all levels.

Cost of membership: Full playing $840, 9 hole $615.

Cost of green fees: 18 hole $35 - non affiliated $30 affiliated. 9 hole $25 non-affiliated and $20 affiliated.