Royal Wellington Golf Club

Royal Wellington Golf Club is one of New Zealand’s finest private member’s parkland courses; it is certainly one of its most beautiful. In the last 10 years, the course has completed a major renovation making use of many of the natural landscape features.

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Founded in 1895, the club moved to its current Heretaunga site by 1908. In 2004, it became the first golf club in New Zealand to be granted “Royal” status, cementing its place among the country’s elite. The Hutt River and the surrounding hills frame many holes, offering both tranquil views and the occasional wind-swept test, depending on conditions. The stately clubhouse, mature trees, and historic feel, add to the sense of playing something special.

The club has hosted seven New Zealand Opens, and in the last ten years, the 2016 New Zealand Men’s and Women’s Amateur, the 2018 Annika Invitational for Junior Women and the 2017 Asia Pacific Amateur Championship for Junior Men, which was run by the Masters and the R&A with televised coverage in over 160countries.  The club also hosted the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific (WAAP) championship in February 2026.

The Heretaunga course was redesigned by Greg Turner and Scott MacPherson and re-opened in 2013. Set on gentle terraces formed from an ancient riverbed, the course weaves among mature native and exotic trees, creeks and watercourses; with birdlife and natural water features adding both beauty and strategic consideration. The course challenges golfers to play strategically while navigating the water features, and undulating terrain.

Several holes stand out: the par-5 4^thHole is a signature risk-reward hole with a split fairway over a stream and a lake guarding the front of the green; the par-3 8th Hole is challenging, with water and slope to contend with; the finishing par-5 18th Hole plays into the clubhouse and allows for a dramatic finish. Multiple tee boxes ensure players at various levels can enjoy the challenge and the walk.  

Royal Wellington offers a special golf experience where you combine history with a beautifully designed and maintained course, strategic variety, and wonderful scenery which is all underpinned by strong hospitality. If you are anywhere near Wellington or just passing through, this is a course you should absolutely put on your must-play list.

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