Last updated July 2026
The Kinloch Club is New Zealand’s only Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, an 18-hole championship layout on the western shore of Lake Taupō. The course sits in the Kinloch village area, roughly 20–30 minutes’ drive from Taupō town centre, and provides sweeping views across the lake and surrounding volcanic hills. It ranks among the country’s top courses and attracts visitors seeking a high-quality, scenic round. The design blends inland links and parkland elements with undulating terrain, strategic bunkers and elevated greens. Advance booking is essential, particularly during peak summer months.
Practical Information
| Location | 261 Kinloch Road, Kinloch, Lake Taupō — approximately 20–30 minutes’ drive west of Taupō town |
| Course | 18-hole championship par 72 · 6,519 yards (white tees) · 7,363 yards (championship tees) |
| Access | Open year-round; visitors welcome with advance booking recommended. Non-resident tee times may be limited on certain weekdays |
| Facilities | Clubhouse café and lounge, practice facilities, putting greens, driving range |
| Priority Access | Guests at Kinloch Manor or Treetops Lodge & Estate receive priority tee times |
About the Course
The Kinloch Club was designed by Jack Nicklaus and remains the only course in New Zealand to carry his Signature designation. The layout follows an inland championship links style that incorporates the natural undulations of the site while framing views of Lake Taupō and the central North Island hills on many holes.
Measuring 7,363 yards from the championship tees and 6,519 yards from the white tees, the course presents a genuine test for low-handicap players yet remains playable for club golfers. Elevated greens, strategically placed bunkers and fescue-framed fairways reward accurate shot-making while offering scenic variety throughout the round.
The course has earned multiple accolades, including recognition as New Zealand’s number-one golf course at the 2023 World Golf Awards. It is frequently compared to classic Scottish links courses for its conditioning and strategic demands, though it sits in a distinctly New Zealand lakeside setting.
The Kinloch Village Setting
The golf course forms part of the Kinloch lakeside community on the western shore of Lake Taupō. Kinloch also serves as a western access point for the Great Lake Trail cycling and walking network, allowing visitors to combine a round of golf with trail rides or lakeside exploration. The village offers a quieter alternative to central Taupō while remaining within easy reach of other regional attractions.
What Visitors Often Say
Players consistently praise the course’s stunning lake and hill views, excellent conditioning and thoughtful design that balances challenge with enjoyment. Many describe it as a bucket-list round and note the helpful staff and pleasant clubhouse experience.
Reviewers highlight the scenic setting and strategic layout, with several mentioning it as one of the best courses they have played in New Zealand. Guests staying at the associated lodges appreciate the priority access and seamless stay-and-play packages.
Where to Learn More
The Kinloch Club official website: Current green fees, online tee-time booking and detailed course information.
Love Taupō – The Kinloch Club: Official Taupō visitor information including pricing, awards and contact details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can visitors play at the Kinloch Club?
Yes, the course welcomes visitors year-round subject to availability. Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially in summer.
Is the Kinloch Club the only Jack Nicklaus course in New Zealand?
Yes, it is the only course in New Zealand with Jack Nicklaus Signature Design status.
How far is the Kinloch Club from Taupō?
The course is located in Kinloch, approximately 20–30 minutes’ drive west of Taupō town centre.
What are the course facilities?
The clubhouse includes a café and lounge serving light meals. Practice facilities, putting greens and a driving range are also available.
Do lodge guests receive priority tee times?
Yes, guests staying at Kinloch Manor or Treetops Lodge & Estate enjoy priority access to preferred tee times.
What are typical green fees?
Fees vary by season and range from approximately $250–$500 for adults; check the official website for current rates and packages.
Is the course open every day?
The course operates year-round, though non-resident tee times may be restricted on certain weekdays outside peak periods.
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