New Zealand Golf Club

New Zealand Golf Club (Addlestone, Surrey, England)

Nestled in the heart of Surrey, England, the New Zealand Golf Club stands as a testament to the timeless elegance and challenge of traditional golf. Established in 1895, this heathland gem has been a playground for golfing legends and a sanctuary for those seeking the pure essence of the game. As you step onto its hallowed fairways, surrounded by fragrant heather and rhododendrons, and under the watchful eye of a clubhouse steeped in history, you can almost feel the presence of past champions like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who once graced these grounds.

Whether teeing off on a challenging dogleg or navigating Tom Simpson’s strategic bunkers, every hole at New Zealand Golf Club tells a story and presents a unique test of skill and strategy. This course is not just a place to play golf; it’s a journey through time, where tradition and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable experience.

Key Details

• Location: Addlestone, Surrey, England
• Length: 6,184 yards
• Par: 70
• Designers: Samuel Mure Fergusson (original design, 1895), Tom Simpson (redesign, 1929), with contributions from Donald Steel, Tom MacKenzie, Martin Ebert, Mackenzie Ross, and Frank Pont
• Established: May 25, 1895
• Notable Events: One of Surrey’s oldest golf courses, known for its historical significance and architectural beauty; primarily used by members and societies

History and Significance

The New Zealand Golf Club holds a rich history that intertwines with both golfing tradition and broader cultural heritage. Established on May 25, 1895, on land once part of the Royal Forest of Windsor, the course was commissioned by Hugh Fortescue Locke King, a visionary who also built Brooklands, the world’s first banked motor racing circuit. The land had been purchased by Peter King, 7th Baron King of Ockham, and the course took its name from two cottages built by his son, Peter John Locke King, in the 1850s, honoring the family’s deep connections to New Zealand—a British colony where they held significant roles, including Governor-General and High Commissioner.

This unique naming adds a layer of cultural intrigue, reflecting the global reach of the British Empire during the course’s founding era. In its early years, the course was designed by Samuel Mure Fergusson, a respected architect of his time. However, it was in the late 1920s that the course underwent a transformative redesign under Tom Simpson, a minimalist golf architect renowned for his strategic yet elegant designs. Simpson’s work included redesigning holes 3, 10, and 17, removing penal Victorian features like rampart bunkers and introducing more thoughtful, strategic elements.

These changes, completed by Autumn 1929, have since defined the course’s character, blending classic charm with modern playability. The redesign was praised by Bernard Darwin, who noted the course’s ability to set its own standard, ideal for friendly, uncrowded games. While New Zealand Golf Club has not hosted major professional tournaments, its historical significance cannot be overstated. It has been a favorite among golf enthusiasts and societies for over a century, offering an uncrowded, tranquil setting that preserves the essence of traditional golf.

The course’s exclusivity—primarily open to members and select societies—adds to its allure, creating an atmosphere of quiet prestige. Notably, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes, was once a member, and his locker nameplate still adorns the clubhouse, adding a touch of literary fame to its legacy. The course’s historical connections and architectural merit make it a cherished destination for those who value golf’s heritage. Today, New Zealand Golf Club remains a hidden gem among Surrey’s heathland courses.

Golf writers like Bernard Darwin have praised its unique qualities, describing it as an ideal setting for a leisurely round followed by a good lunch and an early return to London. Tom Doak, a modern golf architect, expressed his admiration, stating he would happily play there for life if it were near his home. Ranked as England’s 52nd best course by Golf World in 2024, it continues to attract golfers seeking a blend of history, challenge, and natural beauty, offering a glimpse into the golden age of golf course architecture.

Course Features

New Zealand Golf Club is a quintessential heathland course, characterized by its sandy soil, expansive heather, and mature woodland setting in Woodham. Despite its relatively modest length of 6,184 yards, the course presents a variety of challenges that test accuracy, strategy, and course management. With one par-5 and five par-3s, it offers a balanced mix of holes that reward precise shot-making while punishing errant plays. The layout is described as uncomplicated yet demanding, making it accessible to golfers of varying skill levels while still providing a stern test for seasoned players.

The course’s layout features minimalist strategic bunkering, with lace-edged bunkers that are both aesthetically pleasing and strategically placed. Heather lines many fairways, adding an extra layer of difficulty, as does the firm turf that rewards run-up shots but punishes inaccuracies. The greens are well-bunkered and often feature subtle contours, requiring careful approach shots and precise putting. The triangular routing of the course creates a sense of intimacy, while micro-contours and depressions before greens add depth to each hole’s challenge.

These elements reflect Tom Simpson’s design philosophy, emphasizing strategy over brute force. Scenically, New Zealand Golf Club is a feast for the senses. The mature woodland, interspersed with open heathland, provides stunning views at every turn. On clear days, golfers can enjoy glimpses of distant landmarks, while the ever-present heather and rhododendrons create a vibrant, natural backdrop.

Playing here is not just about golf; it’s about immersing oneself in a landscape that feels both wild and refined, offering a serene escape from the hustle of modern life. The overall experience is one of tranquility and tradition, making it a must-play for any golfer visiting the Surrey area.

Signature Holes

New Zealand Golf Club boasts several holes that stand out for their design, challenge, and historical significance. Below are three signature holes that showcase the course’s character:

Hole 1 (Par 4, 380 yards)

The first hole sets the tone for the round with its deceptive simplicity. A slight dogleg left requires an accurate drive to avoid the heather and strategically placed bunkers. For ladies playing from the red tees, this hole becomes a par-5, offering a generous start but still demanding precision. The approach shot must navigate a well-guarded green, making it a true test of nerve and skill right from the beginning. This hole’s design reflects the course’s emphasis on strategic play and sets expectations for what’s to come.

Hole 3 (Par 4, 390 yards)

Redesigned by Tom Simpson in 1929, the third hole is a masterpiece of minimalist architecture. A well-placed bunker guards the green, forcing players to carefully consider their approach shot. The hole’s design encourages strategic thinking—laying up short of the bunker or risking a longer shot to reach the green in two. Its subtle contours and surrounding heather add to its charm, making it a favorite among golfers who appreciate classic design.

Hole 10 (Par 3, 175 yards)

Another Simpson redesign, the tenth hole is a short par-3 that belies its difficulty. The green is surrounded by bunkers and flanked by heather, leaving little room for error. Wind conditions can make this hole even more challenging, requiring golfers to carefully judge their club selection and aim precisely. It’s a hole that tests both skill and composure, offering a memorable moment in any round.

Why Visit

New Zealand Golf Club offers a unique golfing experience that combines historical significance with challenging play. Its heathland layout, with its strategic bunkering, firm fairways, and natural beauty, provides a test that rewards accuracy and thoughtful shot-making. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or someone looking to experience classic golf architecture, this course delivers an unforgettable round. The course’s relatively short length makes it approachable, but its hazards ensure it remains a formidable challenge.

Beyond the golf itself, stepping onto these fairways is like stepping back in time. The course’s connections to figures like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and its design by Tom Simpson evoke a sense of tradition and legacy. Playing here isn’t just about scoring well; it’s about connecting with the spirit of golf as it was meant to be played—challenging yet serene, exclusive yet welcoming. The course’s exclusivity adds to its allure, offering a rare opportunity to play a course that feels like a private retreat.

As Bernard Darwin once said, New Zealand Golf Club sets its own standard, offering an ideal setting for friendly, uncrowded games followed by a good lunch and an early return to London. The club’s facilities, including its renowned wine collection—one of the best in the British Isles—add to the overall experience, making it a destination worth visiting for both golfers and their companions. The combination of historical resonance, natural beauty, and top-notch amenities makes a visit to New Zealand Golf Club a memorable experience.

Facilities

The New Zealand Golf Club provides a range of facilities to enhance the golfing experience. The clubhouse is welcoming and well-appointed, featuring a pro shop stocked with equipment and apparel, as well as locker rooms for convenience. Dining at the clubhouse is a highlight, with excellent cuisine complemented by an exceptional wine collection that rivals many in the British Isles. For those looking to improve their game, a teaching professional is available, and practice areas allow golfers to warm up or refine their skills.

Additional amenities include golf carts and pull-carts for those who prefer not to walk, though many golfers choose to walk to fully appreciate the course’s natural beauty. The club is also noted for being dog-friendly and accommodating, with buggies and trolleys available to ensure a comfortable visit. These facilities, combined with the club’s warm and friendly atmosphere, make it an ideal destination for a day of golf and relaxation.

Contact Details and Directions

Contact Information:

• Address: Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3QD
• Office Phone: +44 (0)1932 345 049
• Pro Shop Phone: +44 (0)1932 349 619
• Fax: +44 (0)1932 342 891
• Email: golf@nzgc.org
• Website: New Zealand Golf Club

Directions:
Located 26 miles southwest of central London, the New Zealand Golf Club is easily accessible by car via major roads like the M25 and A3. For precise navigation, use the coordinates Latitude 51.341061, Longitude -0.522856. Public transport options include trains to West Byfleet or Woking stations, followed by a short taxi ride to the club. Ample on-site parking is available for visitors.

Green Fees and Booking

Visitors are welcome to play at New Zealand Golf Club on weekdays, but access is restricted on weekends. A handicap certificate is required for all players. Green fees vary depending on the season and residency status, and specific pricing is not publicly listed, so it’s essential to contact the club directly at +44 (0)1932 345 049 or via email at golf@nzgc.org to inquire about rates and availability. Booking can be done through the club’s website (New Zealand Golf Club) or by phone, and advance reservations are recommended due to the course’s exclusivity.

Nearby Attractions

Surrey’s rich blend of history, nature, and golfing heritage makes it an ideal destination for visitors to the New Zealand Golf Club. Beyond the course itself, the surrounding area offers a variety of attractions to enhance your trip, particularly for golf enthusiasts and those seeking cultural or natural experiences.

St George’s Hill Golf Club: A prestigious heathland course known for its challenging layout and stunning views, perfect for golfers looking to extend their Surrey golfing experience.

Burhill Golf Club: Offering two parkland courses, Burhill provides a contrasting golfing experience with its lush fairways and historic clubhouse, ideal for a varied golfing itinerary.

Woking Golf Club: Another classic heathland course, Woking is celebrated for its strategic design and is a must-visit for those exploring Surrey’s golfing heritage.

West Hill Golf Club: Known for its beautiful setting and challenging holes, West Hill is a favorite among golfers seeking a traditional heathland experience.

Worplesdon Golf Club: A renowned course with a rich history, Worplesdon offers a challenging yet rewarding round, complementing a visit to New Zealand Golf Club.

Oatlands Park Hotel: Built on the site of Henry VIII’s and Elizabeth I’s royal palaces, this historic hotel offers a glimpse into England’s royal past, with manicured gardens and luxurious accommodations (Oatlands Park Hotel).

Weybridge Town: A charming town with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, Weybridge is perfect for a relaxing afternoon after a round of golf.

Virginia Water Lake: A beautiful spot for scenic walks and nature exploration, Virginia Water offers a peaceful retreat for golfers and their companions.

These attractions make the area around New Zealand Golf Club a versatile destination, catering to both avid golfers and those seeking cultural or leisurely activities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I book a tee time at New Zealand Golf Club?

Tee times can be booked by contacting the club at +44 (0)1932 345 049 or via email at golf@nzgc.org. Visitors are welcome on weekdays with prior booking and a handicap certificate; no outside visitors on weekends.

What are the green fees for non-members?

Green fees vary by season and residency status; contact the club directly for current rates.

Is the course suitable for beginners?

While challenging, the course is enjoyable for golfers of all levels, though some experience is recommended due to hazards like heather and bunkers.

What is the dress code?

Smart casual attire is expected; check with the club for specific requirements.

Are there membership options available?

Membership information can be obtained by contacting the club directly.

What makes this course historically significant?

Established in 1895, it’s one of Surrey’s oldest courses, redesigned by Tom Simpson and linked to figures like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Can I bring my own caddy or are caddies provided?

Inquire with the club about caddy services.

Are there any restrictions on visitor play?

Visitors are welcome on weekdays with prior booking and a handicap certificate; no outside visitors on weekends.

What are the best times to play to avoid crowds?

Weekdays are generally less crowded; book in advance for the best experience.

Is there a pro shop, and what services does it offer?

Yes, the pro shop offers equipment, apparel, and professional services.

Are there practice facilities available?

Yes, practice areas are available for warming up or skill improvement.

What is the policy on golf carts?

Golf carts are available; confirm with the club for details.

Is the course walkable, or is it necessary to use a cart?

The course is walkable, and many golfers enjoy walking to experience its beauty.

Are there any notable events or tournaments held at the course?

The course is primarily used by members and societies, hosting various golfing events but not major professional tournaments.

How does the course compare to other heathland courses in Surrey?

It’s highly regarded for its classic design and historical significance, often compared favorably to courses like Sunningdale and Swinley Forest.