An oasis of rolling parkland in the Canterbury Plains, Clearwater Golf Course is considered one of the most challenging golf courses in the country.
Key Takeaways:
- Clearwater Golf Course features 18 holes and a par of 72, making it one of New Zealand’s most challenging golf courses.
- Opened in 2002, it received the title of best golf course in New Zealand in 2015 from the World Golf Awards.
- The course combines parkland and links-style golf, designed by John Darby and Sir Bob Charles.
- Visitors can enjoy a clubhouse with food and drinks, as well as a pro shop for golfing needs.
- Clearwater Golf Course is part of various New Zealand golf tours, allowing golfers to experience its beauty and challenges.

Key Facts on Clearwater Golf Course
- Number of holes: 18
- Par: 72
- Level of difficulty: Challenging
- Year opened: 2002
- Awards: Named the best golf course in New Zealand in 2015 by the World Golf Awards
Discover Clearwater Golf Course

Flowing through manicured greens, Clearwater Golf Course evokes both parkland and links-style golf. Designed by John Darby and Sir Bob Charles, the course is challenging from the start, building to a par four 18th that some consider one of the best finishing holes in the country.
Situated in the flat Canterbury Plains, Clearwater has taken a blank canvas and transformed it into a beautiful slice of rolling parkland. Water comes into play at more than half of the holes, with native grasses lining the greens.
On-Site Facilities
The clubhouse includes a bar and lounge offering a range of food and drinks overlooking the golf course. From the spacious deck to the fireside, the clubhouse provides a welcome retreat year-round.
The course also has a pro shop for all your golfing needs.
The Clearwater Golf Course Experience
Stay – Christchurch
The George

With opulent rooms overlooking Hagley Park, The George is considered the pinnacle of luxury in Christchurch. The convenient central location and on-site gourmet bistro make it a welcome haven after a day of golf.
Sightseeing & Excursions

Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most exciting cities, with a vibrant and walkable downtown that abounds with eateries, parks, and historic architecture. From the Christchurch Art Gallery to the botanic gardens, and from New Regent Street to the Riverside Market, the city centre offers a diverse range of options. Meanwhile, the historic French settlement of Akaroa makes for an easy day trip.
Our top recommended experiences include:
- Christchurch Tramway
- Christchurch Gondola
- Akaroa Dolphin & Wildlife Cruises
Experience Clearwater Golf Course with our New Zealand golf tours
Clearwater Golf Course is included in several of our New Zealand golf tours, with the option to add a round of golf to other tours that make a stop in Christchurch.
Clearwater features in our following tours:
If you are looking to book an independent (self drive) or fully guided (with driver/guide & vehicle) golf tour then our expert team at New Zealand Golf Tours can help. We are experienced in planning multi day trips that can cater both fro golfers and their non-golfing partners. This includes amazing lodge style accommodation, golf course green fees and bookings, plus transport (rental vehicle or driver / luxury vehicle). We also include ultimate bucket list activities so you can experience New Zealand’s amazing scenery and experiences, as well as it’s world class courses.
Get in touch with us today to start planning.