THE KINLOCH CLUB
🇳🇿 Taupo, Waikato, NZ
Designed by Jack Nicklaus



Kinloch occupies a dramatic lakeside site on the northwestern shore of Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake, with views across the water to the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park. Designed by Jack Nicklaus and opened in 2007, the course represents the designer's only work in New Zealand and takes full advantage of the property's natural contours and native vegetation. The routing moves through rolling terrain characterized by deep ravines, native bush, and exposed ridgelines, with several holes playing directly along the lake's edge.
The layout features significant elevation changes and a links-inspired aesthetic despite its inland setting, with firm, fast-playing conditions and strategic bunkering that rewards thoughtful course management. The par-three 17th hole, playing from an elevated tee to a green perched above the lake, provides one of the course's signature moments. Throughout the round, the design emphasizes width off the tee but demands precision on approach shots to greens that feature pronounced contours and fall-offs.
The Kinloch Club operates as a private facility with a membership that includes both New Zealand residents and international members drawn to the region's year-round golf climate and recreational amenities. The property's remote location, roughly 30 minutes north of Taupo township, contributes to a sense of seclusion. The course has gained recognition in various international rankings since opening and represents one of the Southern Hemisphere's most significant modern championship designs.
Reviews
An absolute gem. A must play! But the course was empty when we played - a beautiful afternoon. We ended at 5pm and the last people on the course (sunset is 9pm). The lady at the pro shop was super nice but the bar and restaurant were both closed. Nowhere to have a post round drink. If you’re paying that kind of $, you better stay open for me. Otherwise an awesome golf course.
The Pro here is a very nice gentleman. Definitely a warm welcome before your round Overall the course was very difficult, especially when the wind started to pick up. Really well manicured and fun
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Kinloch at The Kinloch Club has a Course Vaults score of 8.6 out of 10 based on 6 explicit golfer ratings.
Kinloch was designed by Jack Nicklaus.
Yes. Kinloch at The Kinloch Club is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Kinloch is 72.
Kinloch is a 18-hole course.