Te Arai Links North

Te Arai Links North is located on the pristine Te Arai coastline, just north of Auckland, and offers a world-class golfing experience that combines natural beauty with exceptional design. Designed by renowned architect Tom Doak, the North Course opened in October 2023 and has quickly garnered acclaim, debuting in the Top 50 of Golf Digest’s 2024 World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses list.

Te Arai has a traditional walking links layout and a caddie is highly recommended for greater enjoyment and to save you a few shots. The front nine is played mostly inland, across undulating ground. The design features utilise the landscape and the greens are definitely challenging. Doak is a master in blending in the surrounding landscape and shaping the holes around the large dune system and into the valleys. The par-5, 10^th hole is a perfect example of where you hit up to the top of the ridgeline and then play down to the green.  

The course may not be as picturesque as the South Course, but through its design there is greater risk reward when driving off the tee which demands that you take the right line onto the green or play the right break with your putts. The course is not difficult but requires the golfer to gauge the level of risk reward. Playing the course with the right advice from your caddie and you will definitely begin to understand the nuances that makes this place so special.

There are many great holes on the course,  but standing on the 16^th tee, gives you the greatest vista of the ocean, with views right back to the clubhouse. However, this short risk-reward,par-4 hole requires the right approach before tackling the challenging shortpar-3, 17^th hole that is often affected by the coastal breezes. The 18^th hole is another great, short par-5 hole; it can be hit in two by threading the narrow gap or by being conservative and positioning your three shots to lead to an easy par.  

Beyond the golf course, Te Arai North provides a comprehensive resort experience. The North Clubhouse offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, where golfers can relax and enjoy superb club food and beverages. It is a very comfortable place to kick back and reflect on your special round.