Tuesday, October 12, 2010

New Zealand Golf Vacations - Why Taupo Is A Popular Choice

Taupo is located on a volcanic plateau in the center of the North Island of New Zealand. This central location makes it the perfect base for any New Zealand holiday but in particular a golfing vacation.

Taupo itself has 4 courses and the world class Cape Kidnappers course plus several other excellent courses are all within one hour's drive from Taupo.

Lake Taupo was formed in a massive eruption 5000 thousand years ago, that covered the plateau with pumice providing a free draining substrate that enables golf to be played 365 days of the year.

There are two international standard courses, Kinloch and Wairakei International within minutes of the town center.

Kinloch Club is located 20 minutes away from the town on the shores of the lake and was designed as a links course by Jack Nicklaus. Designed around a natural environment and with lovely lake views it is the only Jack Nicklaus Signature course in New Zealand. When it opened in 2007 it was ranked in the top 10 new golf courses in the world by the US Travel and Leisure magazine.

Wairakei International is 5 minutes drive north of the town and is located in the geothermal area and surrounded by a pest fence to create a sanctuary for native birds. Spread over 450 acres of natural countryside, the length is 6444 metres from the championship tees and there are 108 large well-positioned bunkers.

The two local courses Tahara and Centennial provide economical golfing on high standard, enjoyable courses and are conveniently located right in the town.

Just one hour's drive away is the world class Cape Kidnappers Course, situated inside a working farm and overlooking a gannet colony. Spectacular views of the coastline abound and the clubhouse and spa facilities are second to none. There are 3 luxury lodges on the property, but most golfers choose to return to their Taupo accommodation after their round.

International visitors may fly into Auckland International Airport then drive the 4 hours to Taupo or fly on down to Taupo Airport. There are excellent motels and lodges in Taupo and many fine local restaurants to complement a memorable golfing vacation.

Toni Walkley is the owner of a new Taupo motel, Alpine Lake Motor Lodge. Visit her website for more information on Taupo accommodation options and what to do and see in Taupo.

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