Video:
Green
Fees:
60
70
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Whakatane Golf Club
Bay of Plenty - Te Moana-a-Toi
Whakatane Golf Club was founded in 1932, with earlier club roots dating back to 1914, and the course was designed by noted architect Charles Redhead. It is set close to the coastline and looks out toward Moutohora Island, also known as Whale Island, giving the course a strong coastal identity.
The course is an 18 hole par 70 layout measuring just over 6000 metres from the back tees. It is an easy walking course and is open to golf carts throughout the year. Several of the par fours provide a solid test, while the standout hole is the par 3 16th, which stretches to 194 metres from the tips and features a well protected green surrounded by bunkers.
Whakatane is known for its fast running greens and consistent course presentation. The layout rewards controlled ball striking and good course management rather than raw power, making it enjoyable for a wide range of golfers.
The club regularly hosts major events including the North Island Stroke Play Championship, the Bay of Plenty Open, and the Bay of Plenty Men’s Masters. Practice and hire facilities are available, including electric carts, club hire, trundlers, and complimentary showers.
The clubhouse offers a relaxed setting with a fully licensed bar and an onsite café and caterer. It is also used for private functions and group events. Overall, Whakatane Golf Club offers a well established championship course in a scenic Bay of Plenty setting, combining history, coastal views, and a genuine test of golf.
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Yes Life Review
Whakatane Golf Club
7.5
/ 10
Condition
Whakatāne Golf Club was in exceptional condition when we played in November 2025. The fairways were beautifully manicured, and the greens played exactly as a true links course should, firm underfoot and rolling true. Trees and rough were also well maintained, and the overall presentation of the course was excellent, making for a thoroughly enjoyable round.
Challenge
Whakatāne Golf Club biggest defence is the wind, although we were lucky to play it in flat calm conditions. The layout features plenty of doglegs, and the use of the Tiger tees can really change how certain holes play. Fairways are generous in width and the rough is not overly penal, making it an enjoyable and forgiving course. Overall, it is a fun and engaging test that suits golfers of all ability levels.
Facilities
Whakatāne Golf Club offers excellent facilities that add to the overall experience. The clubhouse is open throughout the week and is also available for functions, providing a welcoming space for members and visitors. The professional shop is well stocked with all golfing soft goods and refreshments for before and after your round. There is a great deck area where you can sit back and watch golfers tee off and finish their round. The course is laid out so that nine holes return to the clubhouse, making a shorter round a great option, and there is also a large putting green along with driving nets to warm up.
Value for Money
Whakatāne Golf Club offers great value for money. For a well-kept course and quality facilities, it’s an easy place to enjoy a relaxed round and a drink afterward. With areas to warm up before you play and views across the airport and surrounding countryside, it’s a perfect escape for an enjoyable day of golf.