ARROWTOWN GOLF CLUB - 16 POINTS
Queenstown is blessed with many great new golf courses - The Hills, Jack’s Point, Millbrook, all modern courses with spectacular settings that wow visitors from around the world. But to come through these parts and not play Arrowtown would be a travesty. It’s a tribute to a bygone era which is just great fun to play. It may end up being the course you remember best.
Nine holes were opened here in the 1930s and then a further nine added the other side of Queenstown to Arrowtown road in the 1970s. Originally, they played the older nine first but have recently swapped them round. While they occupy different types of land the two nines work well together.
The word ‘quirky’ is often banded around when describing shorter courses, but no-one can deny Arrowtown deserves the moniker. It’s quirk personified!
First things first, there are no bunkers on the course. There is one on the property – on the practice area – presumably so members can practice for away fixtures! But the course doesn’t suffer for this. Many of the greens are cut into ridges so if you miss, rather than run into a greenside bunker, you run down to gnarly rough where recovery can be harder than if you were in the sand.
The topography of the land, particularly on the back nine, requires shots you just won’t find on most courses. You have to plot your way through rocky outcrops, navigate mounds and somehow work out how to get the ball onto the green.
The land runs fast so you can happily use your ground game in some parts. Sometimes though that’s just not possible as you will have to fly little gorges to find the greens.
There are punchbowls and backboards, volcano greens and one green is just a slither. Playing here is an golf course architecture geek’s dream! It’s the kind of course you could play again and again and keep finding new ways to the hole. This isn’t target golf, it’s the kind of place you can let you imagination run riot.
The front nine is played over flatter ground, and the fairways are relatively wide. Relative to the back nine that is! But you soon realise that this isn’t a course to be overpowered - positioning from the tee is key. You will also quickly find out that aiming for the middle of the green is unlikely to reap rich rewards at Arrowtown. You will need to look at which way the land is sloping and aim to the high side otherwise you will be down rocky outcrops and will need to have a good wedge game with you.
The front nine at Arrowtown is on flatter ground than the back nine - but still in a spectacular setting
The greens aren’t wild but there is plenty of movement. Even ten-foot putts are likely to have some curve on them and you will need to have your short game working well to score.
The back nine is tighter than the front nine and the land is more dramatic. The tenth is a 180-yard par 3, downhill with a big mound in front. Trying to run one up isn’t a bad play but, leave it short like I did, and you will have your work cut out to get it close.
Then comes a par 5 with a chute fairway and a big dogleg to the right.
The eleventh fairway at Arrowtown is quite a chute
There are more levels to contend with on this back nine, with shelves to hit from the tee and dips before greens, so accuracy is key. The sixteenth sees a return from the high ground with a short drop par 4 and, as I discovered, rocks to contend with on the left.
The finishing hole is a cracker - a longer par 4 which plays to a well-protected green with the clubhouse behind.
The clubhouse is in keeping with the course. It’s small, functional and just right. The beer is cold and the sausage rolls are warm, just like the welcome. It’s the perfect place to spend some time at the end of your round to reflect on the fun you’ve just had, and probably to start plotting your return!
BOOKING THE COURSE
Arrowtown is very visitor friendly. International green fees are around NZ$140 for non-NZ affiliated players – that’s about £65. There’s a replay rate within 7 days for a second round at $75. You can email them, phone or fill in the booking form here.
TOUR TIPS
Arrowtown is about 25 minutes drive outside of Queenstown on New Zealand’s South Island. Those looking for a more genteel trip might want to stay in Arrowtown as it is a lovely little place and handy for three of the golf courses you are likely to be playing in the area - The Hills, Arrowtown and Millbrook.
But I suspect most people would rather stay in Queenstown. They call Queenstown a city but it’s really a pretty town in the most wonderful setting on Lake Wakatipu. This is New Zealand tourist central. In the summer, bungee jumping, white water rafting and a whole host of other outdoor activities fill most visitors’ days. In the winter, this is a skiing town with the Remarkable mountains close by.
There are loads of great options for eating and drinking in Queenstown.
RESTAURANTS
Botswana Butchery: Located on Marine Parade, Botswana Butchery has great food and wonderful waterfront views. With a focus on high-quality meats and seasonal produce, this restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring both traditional and contemporary dishes.
Rata: Owned by renowned New Zealand chef Josh Emett, Rata offers contemporary New Zealand cuisine in a stylish and relaxed setting. The menu showcases the finest local ingredients, with dishes that are beautifully presented and bursting with flavour.
The Bunker: Tucked away in a cosy basement on Cow Lane, The Bunker is a hidden gem. Specialising in European-style tapas and with an extensive wine list, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. Great atmosphere and staff.
Fergburger: An absolute Queenstown institution. Their mouth-watering burgers are a must-try, with juicy patties and delectable toppings. Don't miss the famous Ferg Deluxe!
Atlas Beer Café: Situated on Steamer Wharf, this vibrant eatery offers a wide range of craft beers and hearty pub-style fare. With its waterfront location and lively atmosphere, Atlas Beer Café is a great spot to relax and enjoy good food and drinks. Visit their website for more information.
PUBS AND BARS
Pog Mahones: A lively Irish pub known for its welcoming atmosphere, live music, and tasty Guinness. Grab a pint, enjoy the traditional pub fare, and embrace the authentic Celtic vibes.
The World Bar: A unique and quirky experience, this popular spot offers an eclectic setting with upside-down décor and a relaxed, friendly ambiance. Enjoy their creative cocktails, including the famous "The World Famous Cocktail" served in a teapot!
Habana Bar: Step into the vibrant atmosphere this Cuban-inspired gem. With its colourful décor, salsa music, and extensive selection of rum, this bar is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Sip on a mojito while immersing yourself in the lively Cuban spirit.
Smiths Craft Beer House: Craft beer enthusiasts shouldn't miss this out. With an impressive line-up of local and international brews, this cosy and laid-back bar is a beer lover's paradise. Grab a flight of beers and discover the diverse flavours on offer.
Barmuda: Located on Queenstown's bustling Searle Lane, Barmuda is a contemporary bar with a stylish and sophisticated vibe. This popular hangout spot offers a wide selection of cocktails, including their signature creations, accompanied by delicious share plates.
I stayed at the mi-pad hotel which was a good budget option in the middle of town. If you are looking for something a bit more swanky then then Crowne Plaza is a great option, with an amazing view over the lake.
In terms of climate, the best time to play golf in Queenstown is during the summer months from November to February. During this time, Queenstown experiences warm temperatures with an average high of 22°C (72°F) and plenty of sunshine. The days are long too so there is time for some fun beyond the golf course. These are also some of the drier months of the year. The leaves start to turn in March and April which would also make a stunning backdrop for a visit.
CONTACT DETAILS
Arrowtown Golf Club
166 Centennial Avenue
PO Box 6
Arrowtown
New Zealand
