Ultra-Luxe Golf Tour Q&A - Kauri Cliffs Golf Course

Ultra-Luxe New Zealand Golf Tour 2025 - Q&A Kauri Cliffs Golf Course

ByLuxury Adventures

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Kauri Cliffs Golf Course, Northland, North Island, New Zealand - Key partner for the 2025 Ultra-Luxe New Zealand Golf Tour

With the recent launch of New Zealand’s first Ultra-Luxe Golf Tour, Luxury Adventures is conducting some Q&A’s and will be able to unveil an exciting preview of the upcoming tour. In this series of interviews, we have the honour of getting some insights and connecting with the individuals who will make this journey a truly exceptional experience.

Kauri Cliffs is just a 60 minute helicopter flight from Auckland, located in the breath-taking Bay of Islands. Often compared favourably to Cypress Point and Pebble Beach, golf at Kauri Cliffs is a staple for discerning travellers and golf touring parties.

Today we will be discussing Kauri Cliffs Golf Course with Head Golf Professional Mitchell McMurtry.

Thanks for your time today Mitch, can you tell us a bit about yourself?

My name is Mitch McMurtry. I moved to New Zealand full time this past December. Previously, I bounced around “chasing summer” at Southern Hills Country Club, The Alotian Club, Glenwild Golf Club, and Estancia Golf Club. I spent the last two years working as a First Assistant at Idle Hour CC in Lexington, Kentucky while completing my MBA at the University of Kentucky.

I have always had a deep passion for travel, which led me to multiple cross country road trips around the United States and a 2-month backpacking trip through Europe. After this most recent trip, I was intrigued with the idea of combining my passion for golf with living in a foreign country. As I see it, New Zealand is a beginner friendly transition coming from the States – as the first language is the same.

Kauri Cliffs has been incredible welcoming over the last 6 months and I look forward to continuing to make changes to elevate service here. We work to roll out the red carpet for every guest on property and make sure they have the best experience. This has been a wonderful opportunity and I am passionate to bring out more guests to Northland, New Zealand!

Where is Kauri Cliffs located, & could you let us know some of the history of the location & course?

Kauri Cliffs is located in Matauri Bay, Northland, two hours from the most northern part of the island – Cape Reinga. This stunning property lies about 20 minutes from Highway 10 on the far East Coast of the country.

Kauri Cliffs was developed by Julian Robertson. Robertson, and his wife Josie, discovered the site during a visit to New Zealand in the late 1990s and were captivated by its natural beauty.

The golf course was designed by David Harman and officially opened in 2000. Harman was an American golf course architect known for creating challenges and visually stunning courses – which is perfectly portrayed at Kauri Cliffs

What’s the course’s par and yardage?

From the Tiger Tees, the course stretches 6,528 meters. With six different tee boxes, this creates a welcoming experience for all guests… Par 72

What’s the typical experience like for a golfer playing a round at Kauri Cliffs?

The staff rolls out the red carpet for every guest that comes through. The service is very personal, from greetings in the parking lot to friendliness in the golf shop to cleaning clubs and refreshing drinks at the turn. By the end of the day, the staff works to connect with the guest and cater to their needs throughout their stay.

What practice facilities are available (driving range, putting green)?

– Driving Range

– Putting Green

– Practice chipping green

– Brands available for rental: Callaway & Titleist

What types of unique features or design elements of Kauri Cliffs Golf Course stand out to you for its players & visitors?

Since its opening, the course has received various accolades. It is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the world. Golf Digest Worlds 100 Greatest Golf Courses – #26

– Pohutukawa Tree on #3 and Norfolk Pine on #17 are standout memories in guests’ minds.

Do you have a favourite hole or stretch of holes on the course? Any tips for players?

Hole 14 to 17: All along the coast with views of the Cavalli Islands

– Take less club off the tees to ensure you can hit the fairway. The greens are very undulated and the correct tier is crucial to be able to score well at Kauri Cliffs.

The Ultra-Luxe New Zealand Golf touring group will be staying on-site at the Rosewood Kauri Cliffs accommodation, what are some of the unique features of this property?

– The Kauri Tree (After a short walk in the native bush, a 700 – 900-year-old Kauri Tree lies towering over the guests. Prior to the Robertson family gifting this to Queen Elizabeth, this was the largest Kauri Tree on private property in New Zealand.)

– Pink Beach – Private beach on property that many guests visit to unwind during their stay, stunning views with a beach covered in shells with a pink tint, giving the entire beach a unique look

– Farm life – During your stay at KC, you will frequently hear and see the cows and sheep all over property. Wildlife adds to the beauty of Kauri Cliffs with horseback riding and even a night-time kiwi tour!

Last but not least, New Zealand is one of the most sought-after locations for golfers looking at taking a golf vacation, what makes New Zealand such a great destination for travellers in your opinion?

The unique beauty of the landscape where golf is carved into the landscape rather than shifting earth to build up elevation changes. The natural landscape is highlighted and brings the golfer through a journey on their round of golf.

Stay tuned for more in-depth conversations with key suppliers for the Ultra-Luxe New Zealand Golf Tour and get ready to embark on a luxurious journey filled with world-class golf courses, stunning landscapes, and unparalleled experiences. If you have any further questions email steve@luxuryadventures.co.nz or To find out more about the tour click here