Carrington Estate

Carrington Estate: Although it's a long drive to the northern tip of the North Island, the scenery alone ensures you are well rewarded, and some of New Zealand's golfing jewels await ... not least, the much heralded Carrington Estate. In addition to its 5-star accommodation and services, the 3,000-acre Carrington Estate includes an impressive winery and a wonderfully scenic and challenging Matt Dye designed championship golf course.

The pleasantly undulating front-nine loop, with its scattering of tall, elegant gum trees, feels slightly more tree-lined than the more open back-nine. Holes like the narrow short par-4 6th and testing par-3 7th both bring water into play. A small lake and attractive wetlands pose a significant threat at these holes. Big-hitters will enjoy the generally good-width fairways, but don't stray too far beyond them, where thick coastal vegetation can pose ball finding issues.

From another wonderfully elevated tee at the downhill par-3 10th, the back-nine slopes away from the clubhouse, a harmonious interplay of rolling fairways, scattered bushes and picturesque wetlands. Beyond the course are stunning views out onto the Pacific Ocean and across to New Zealand's most northerly peninsula.

In this blissfully natural and tranquil setting, you can forget the hustle and bustle of city life and pit your skills against this challenging, immensely scenic and thoroughly enjoyable course. And if you still want even more elevated views, take the short ride up to the Karikari winery and sample some of its really excellent wines.

Stay&Play at Carrington Estate: luxury onsite accommodation available, see Where2Stay section below.