Timaru and the surrounding South Canterbury district have a handful of golf courses ranging from the main 18-hole championship layout at Timaru Golf Club to smaller 9-hole courses in nearby towns. The flat terrain around Timaru makes for accessible, well-maintained courses, and the views — Southern Alps to the west, Pacific Ocean to the east — are a genuine bonus on a clear day.
Practical Information
| Main course | Timaru Golf Club — 18 holes, par 72, approx 6,096 metres. Located at Levels, Timaru. |
|---|---|
| Established | 1894 (relocated to Levels in the late 1950s) |
| Visitor play | Visitors welcome at Timaru Golf Club; green fees apply |
| Other local courses | Gleniti Golf Club (9 holes, Pages Road, Timaru); Highfield Golf Club (9 holes); Maungati Golf Club (9 holes, approx 25 km from Timaru) |
| Further afield | Temuka Golf Club, Pleasant Point Golf Club |
| Bookings | Recommended for Timaru Golf Club on weekends; contact individual clubs directly |
Timaru Golf Club
Timaru Golf Club is the main course in the district — an 18-hole, par-72 layout of approximately 6,096 metres at Levels, a short drive south of Timaru city. Established in 1894 and relocated to its current site in the late 1950s, the course features two returning nines with a central irrigation lake that comes into play on several holes. The flat, open design favours accurate approach play, with the prevailing Canterbury wind adding a variable challenge.
Visitors are welcome to play. Green fees and tee time booking details are available on the club’s website at timarugolfclub.co.nz.
Gleniti Golf Club
Gleniti Golf Club is located on Pages Road, close to Timaru city centre. A 9-hole layout, it offers views of the Southern Alps to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east. It’s a good option for a quick round without committing to a full 18-hole day.
Other Courses in the District
Highfield Golf Club offers another 9-hole option in Timaru. Maungati Golf Club — a 9-hole, 18-tee course approximately 25 km from Timaru — provides a more rural setting. Both Temuka and Pleasant Point have their own golf clubs, which adds to the options for visitors touring the wider South Canterbury area.
Where to Learn More
Timaru Golf Club — official website with course information, visitor green fees, tee booking, and club contact details.
Venture Timaru Tourism – Golf — overview of golf courses available across the Timaru district.
FAQ
Where is Timaru Golf Club located?
At Levels, south of Timaru city — near the Timaru Airport. The club is signposted from the main roads.
Can visitors play at Timaru Golf Club?
Yes, visitors are welcome. Green fees apply. Contact the club or check timarugolfclub.co.nz for current fees and tee times.
Are there 9-hole options near Timaru?
Yes — Gleniti Golf Club (Pages Road, central Timaru), Highfield Golf Club, and Maungati Golf Club (approx 25 km away) all offer 9-hole layouts.
What’s the standard of the Timaru Golf Club course?
An 18-hole, par-72 layout of approximately 6,096 metres — suitable for golfers of all abilities, with a central lake adding strategic interest on several holes.
Are there golf courses in nearby towns?
Yes — both Temuka and Pleasant Point have golf clubs, making it easy to combine golf with exploring the wider Timaru district.
For more activities around Timaru, see the Things to Do in Timaru guide. The Timaru Botanic Gardens are another popular outdoor destination in the city.
