Known for its dramatic coastal landscape, world-class golf courses, luxury accommodation, and wide range of outdoor activities, Te Arai Links is more than just a golf resort, it’s a complete coastal experience.
Located about 90 minutes north of Auckland, Te Arai Links is nestled into a remote stretch of coastline surrounded by sand dunes, native vegetation, farmland, and the Pacific Ocean. The development was designed to create a world-class golf destination, similar to the famous links courses of Scotland and Ireland, while showcasing the beauty of New Zealand’s natural landscape.
The South Course, designed by Tom Doak, opened first and quickly gained international recognition. The course follows a minimalist design philosophy, meaning the architects worked with the natural dunes rather than reshaping the land heavily.
Designed so you spend less time hunting for lost balls in the bushes and more time soaking in those massive Pacific views with your friends. 16 holes have ocean views, and the course is known for its, strategic bunkers, and firm, fast greens. Coastal winds often play a major role in how the course is played, similar to traditional links golf courses.
The North Course was designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw and features more dramatic dunes, elevation changes, and elevated ocean views. The real magic happens on the greens, which are shaped like a mini-golf course on a grand scale—full of bumps, bowls, and slopes that make every putt an adventure. While the South Course follows the beach, the North Course takes you on a rugged journey through huge sand dunes and pine trees, ending with a dramatic finish right against the ocean. It’s a relaxed, high-energy layout where the goal is to use the contours of the ground to get your ball to the thole.
Together, the North and South courses have helped put Te Arai Links on the map as one of the premier golf destinations in the world. Since opening, Te Arai Links has been ranked among the best new golf courses in the world by major golf publications. It has also helped position New Zealand as a global golf tourism destination alongside famous courses like Cape Kidnappers, Kauri Cliffs, Jack’s Point and Millbrook resort, with more world class courses marked to open in the future.
Te Arai Links is not just a golf course, it is a full luxury resort with a relaxed and welcoming vibe. Visitors can stay in modern villas and suites overlooking the ocean or golf course. The resort also includes a range of outstanding restaurants, with something to offer for all tastes.
Te Arai focuses on sustainability and environmental preservation, with large areas of native planting and careful land management to protect the dunes and coastline.
Although golf is the main attraction, Te Arai Links offers a wide range of activities that make it appealing to both golfers and non-golfers.
Because the resort is located directly beside the ocean, beach activities are a major part of the experience. Visitors can enjoy:
The resort’s spa and wellness centre is a peaceful retreat where guests can unwind after a day on the golf course or exploring the beach. You can enjoy a soothing massage, refreshing facial, or modern recovery treatments like red-light therapy and hydrotherapy in the sauna, hot tubs, or cold plunge. For those who like to stay active, there’s a fully equipped fitness centre and options for yoga and Pilates, often held outdoors with ocean views. Whether you’re soaking in the spa, strolling along the sand dunes, or enjoying a quiet moment in your villa, the wellness experiences at Te Arai Links are designed to help you relax, recharge, and feel completely refreshed.
