Millbrook Coronet 18

Millbrook Resort's Coronet Course, located in Arrowtown near Queenstown, offers a distinctive golfing experience that blends natural beauty with strategic design. Designed by Greg Turner and Scott Macpherson, the Coronet 9 opened in 2009 and was expanded to 18-holes in 2022, combining the original Coronet nine with the new Mill Farm nine.  

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As part of the New Zealand Open over the last few years, the challenges of the Coronet Course have tested many of the leading players that have participated in the event.  The Coronet is more rugged and undulating than its sister course (Millbrook’s Remarkables Course).  The layout features schist out crops, significant undulations, and low-lying wetlands.   The course's design emphasizes strategic shot-making, with each hole offering unique challenges that require thoughtful club selection and course management.

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Golfers can expect a memorable round characterized by elevated tee shots, challenging approaches, and scenic vistas. The combination of natural beauty and challenging design elements makes the Coronet Course a standout option for golfers seeking a unique and rewarding experience.  Right from the first tee, you are faced with the natural shist rock and design features that make this course special.  

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The course layout provides multiple tee boxes to suit a range of abilities, but even from forward tees, the natural terrain and strategic bunkering keep the course challenging and interesting.  Where the Remarkables is more parkland, Coronet has a links golf ‘feel’ to it. With the greater elevation, the layout is more exposed to the breezy conditions that can flow through the valley;  especially when you play the mid-stretch of holes from the seventh through to the par-3, twelfth, where you are up on the plateau.  The views are great and the golf can get challenging especially if water is in play!  

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The last stretch of holes, the 15^th through to the 18^th, are extremely testing yet ultimately enjoyable. Like the rest of the golf course, by taking the correct lines and playing cautiously, you can come home strongly.  Negotiating water, hitting precise approach shots and putting with clear intent will help you navigate home.

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While enjoying the 19^th hole at the Millbrook Resort, you will already be trying to work out how you can get to play this golf course again.  It is a challenging course with many nuances, so take the time to enjoy the amazing alpine surroundings and incredible architecture, rather than focusing too hard on your golf score!  

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