20 minutes easy drive from Wellington CBD (NZ)
When we pulled into the car park we were struck by the modern and new clubhouse, pro-shop, and cafe. Later we read that the new facilities and course came with a $14 million price tag.
The course itself has been redesigned and built after the two existing courses joined. Some land was carved off and sold to a retirement village development and the remaining was turned into the new course which has 18holes plus a further 6hole short course.
The welcome at the Pro shop was friendly and helpful. We had not booked a tee time but had checked the tee bookings to ensure some gaps for us to slot into. The pro shop staff member was chatty and sorted out our tee time and cart, gave us a rundown of the facilities and direction for getting the cart from shop to car to load our bags.
Weather– No wind! This is a big deal in Wellington. They don’t call it windy Wellington for no reason. So, to have a slightly overcast but still day was incredible luck. At times in the sheltered parts I was tempted to get down to shirt sleeves but found that my polo and light jersey was comfortable enough for the last day in July (NZ mid-winter).
The Course – Very nice. Interesting holes, with some good challenges but not punitive in any way. A nice playable golf course. The greens were in great condition, moderate speed and no pitch marks. This may be directly related to the length they go to on their visiting the farm web page to educate on how to repair a pitch mark and a number of other course care notes.
Looking along #1 
The Rimutaka Range in the background 
A well guarded approach
I played off the ladies’ yellow tees, slope rating of 122. Distance 5,113 metres or 5,592 yards. Scott played the Men’s White Tees, slope 119, distance 5,552 metres or 6,071 yards.
Even though this course was 3 slope points harder than my home course, I played it well ending with a gross 97. There were very few blind spots which as you know when you play a course for the first time can make a big difference to the result. Not feeling like you need to lift your head on each shot is refreshing. Scott also played well with only two problem holes.
Lunch– We had lunch after our round in the very spacious and modern clubhouse/café. Not quite as cosy as a lot of clubhouses but the floor to ceiling windows on two sides give ample opportunity to sit and watch other golfers play up 9 & 18. The menu is comprehensive and more like a city café than a Golf course clubhouse. I had the all-day breakfast quesadilla and Scott had the burger. Both meals were fresh and delicious.
The summary – 41/45
| How did the Course rate? | Rating 1=bad, 5=great | Comment |
| How many balls lost? | 5 | Zero |
| How many out of bounds or hazards did I go in? | 5 | Zero |
| Did I get out of bunkers in 1? | 5 | Yes, the bunkers were well graded and not too deep |
| Could I play to my handicap? | 5 | I did and I was very happy |
| Were there ladies comfort stops on course? | 4 | Yes, but didn’t use. |
| Were they clean? | Didn’t use | |
| Did the course staff engage with me or just my husband? | 5 | Yes very friendly |
| Was there ladies apparel in the pro shop | 4 | There was a good range of everything. |
| Was the club/bar welcoming at the end of play | 3 | Very friendly, good menu but a bit spacious and bright |
| Would I go back | 5 | Definitely |