Taihape Golf Club

Taihape Golf Club, established around 1907, is a country golf course located in the Hautapu River valley. The course features a mixture of natural beauty and tranquil landscape, with pastoral terrain that occasionally includes grazing sheep.

The club is particularly renowned for its 12th hole, a striking par 3 that Arnold Palmer famously called "the best natural par 3 in the world" during a 1970 visit. This signature hole spans 133 metres from the white tee and 155 metres from the blue tee, with the elevated tee standing approximately 15 metres above the green, which drops away on three of its four sides as it crosses the Hautapu River.

The course offers a peaceful, traditional golfing experience with good old-fashioned country hospitality. Green fees are $30 per round, with golf cart hire available for $40. The club welcomes both members and green fee players, and accommodates staying golfers with affordable park-over options, making it accessible for visitors seeking a relaxed, scenic golf experience.