Clearwater Golf Course
Christchurch
Clearwater Golf Course is one of the standout golf experiences in Christchurch, combining championship pedigree with spring-fed lakes, wide-open landscapes and spectacular views towards New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Set within Peppers Clearwater Resort on the northern side of the city, the course is only minutes from Christchurch International Airport, making it an ideal first or final round on a South Island golf holiday.
Designed by John Darby in consultation with New Zealand golfing legend Sir Bob Charles, Clearwater opened in 2002 as an 18-hole, par-72 championship course. From the back tees it stretches to approximately 6,526 metres, with multiple teeing options allowing golfers to choose a challenge that suits their game.
What we particularly like about Clearwater is how much the character changes throughout the round. The front nine has a more open, links-inspired feel, where wind, undulating fairways and exposed landing areas can have a big influence. The back nine becomes more reminiscent of a Florida-style course, with water carries, strategically positioned bunkers and demanding greens creating a completely different test. Clearwater
Water is one of the defining features. Spring-fed lakes and streams weave through the property, so good course management is essential. There are certainly opportunities to attack, but the most aggressive route is rarely the safest. The par-3 9th is a great example, requiring a full carry across water while the prevailing wind can add another layer of difficulty. Later in the round, the par-5 14th introduces two separate water crossings and a split green, making it one of the course’s strongest strategic holes.
Clearwater also has impressive tournament pedigree. Since opening, it has hosted eight New Zealand PGA Championships, two New Zealand Opens and four New Zealand Women’s Opens, with players including Lydia Ko, Jason Day, Bubba Watson and Jason Dufner all competing here.
Practice facilities include a driving range, practice area and putting green, while coaching, club hire and electric carts are available. The clubhouse has a Pro Shop, bar and lounge overlooking the resort, making it an easy place to settle in after your round. Peppers
Peppers Clearwater Resort sits directly alongside the course, giving golfers the option of a convenient stay-and-play break with lakeside accommodation and on-site dining. Christchurch city centre is also only around 13 km away.
Speak to our Golf Travel Experts at Hashtag Golf Travel and we can include Clearwater Golf Course within a tailor-made New Zealand golf holiday, combining accommodation, tee times and other leading courses across the South Island.
Christchurch Airport
7km
England’s best golf tour operator 2026 winner
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Time Zone:
GMT+13
Currency:
$ (New Zealand Dollar)
Temperature:
11°C - 20°C
Cost of a Beer:
£5.20
Cost of a 3-Course Meal:
£32
Hashtag Guide
About The Area
Windwhistle is a small alpine village set at the foothills of the Southern Alps, around an hour west of Christchurch. Surrounded by wide-open plains and mountain backdrops, it offers golfers a peaceful, high-country setting with one of New Zealand’s most distinctive inland links-style experiences.
The focal point here is Terrace Downs Resort, an 18-hole championship course carved through rugged alpine terrain. Designed to embrace its natural landscape, the layout features dramatic elevation changes, bold bunkering and expansive fairways framed by the Rakaia River and snow-capped peaks. Several holes play across deep gullies and rolling hills, demanding strategic club selection and confident shot-making. The greens are generously sized but subtly contoured, rewarding precise approaches. The setting feels remote and expansive, with minimal development intruding on the natural scenery.
Golf at Windwhistle is defined by big skies, crisp mountain air and firm-running fairways during the summer months. Wind can play a significant role, adding a links-like element to what is fundamentally an alpine parkland layout. The prime playing season runs from November to March, when temperatures are mild and daylight hours are long.
Off the course, the Canterbury region offers hiking, jet boating on the Rakaia River and scenic drives through Arthur’s Pass National Park. Christchurch is within easy reach for dining and accommodation options, while nearby wineries provide relaxed tasting experiences.
For golfers seeking dramatic alpine golf, panoramic mountain views and a quieter, high-country escape, Windwhistle delivers one of New Zealand’s most scenic and rewarding inland golf experiences.
