Lessons from million-dollar baby Lydia Ko

Lydia Ko shows off her impressive swing. Photo / Michael Craig

World-beating golfer Lydia Ko is today donating her time to some of the future stars of the sport.

Fresh from victory at the season-ending CME Group Tour championship in Florida, where she scooped $1.9 million in winnings, Ko this morning met about 40 of Auckland and Waikato's most talented young golfers for a one-off training session.

The 7- to 14-year-olds from North Harbour, Auckland and Waikato had the opportunity to ask Ko about her experiences as a player, and for advice on what they need to do to take their game further.

This was followed by a driving demonstration by the champion and an opportunity for the youngsters to whack some balls during a one-hour coaching clinic.

Perhaps the next generation's Ko, 10-year-old Anna An, has been playing golf for three years and practises for three to four hours each day. Anna was blown away when she met her idol today.

"I think we're really lucky to have Lydia here teaching us, I feel really special."

Ko, 17, is tomorrow taking part in a charity event at the Takapuna Golf Course in which participants pay $150 each or $500 for a group of four to play with or against Ko on the 10th hole.

Ko is not seeking a fee for her attendance at the event.

"I like doing things with kids. They are the future stars and they are they are the future stars of the game. Hopefully I can see a couple of them on tour or on TV one of these days."

Lydia Ko gets emotional as she is greeted by family and friends - and flowers - at Auckland Airport this week. Photo / Greg Bowker