Kenneth Hagan - Christchurch
'Fantastic day and great people'

What do new members say?

At first glance, the Motueka Golf Course looks straightforward. There is only one, long par four, all of the par fives are relatively short, the course is not heavily bunkered, the rough is kept under control and the fairways and greens are well maintained.

Oh, how deceiving that first glance is! Fairways are tree lined and tree visits can be costly. Water hazards are mostly low profile in the form of drainage ditches but they often bite. There are nine holes where a loose push or fade is likely to finish out of bounds and two others where over-shooting the green can result in penalty shots. Being on the fairway is often not enough. On at least seven holes, placement is crucial for a straightforward approach to the green. Awkward pin placements add to this group. Greens missed left or right often leave a difficult chip. Motueka puts a premium on accuracy off the tee and a good short game. It is certainly a stern test of golf in attractive, park-like surroundings. If you are often wayward like me and find on joining that your handicap is rapidly going in the wrong direction, the club has many bonuses to keep you playing.

These bonuses include:
- the general friendliness of club members
- the mentoring and support of players new to the club
- Random draw on club days so new members get to play with a wide range of players
- A convivial and pleasant club house atmosphere
- very reasonable costs.

In terms of value for money, I believe the Motueka Golf Club takes a lot of beating.

Richard Bullock
Member for one year