The Terrace Downs Resort and Golf Club has developed a superb 18-hole, par 72 championship course on the banks of the Rakaia River Gorge at the foot of the Mount Hutt ski-field. It’s a member of Best of New Zealand Golf Resorts where only the best in hospitality, luxurious accommodation and a finely manicured golf course qualifies for membership.
Terrace Downs pushes the limits of believability with a 6,440-metre-long course that incorporates 11 lakes and 70 bunkers – plenty of obstacles to challenge the most experienced player. Thankfully there are four tee options at each hole to cater to all golfing abilities.
‘The underlying philosophy of the course development has been to assure its integration into the natural environment. The captivating views remain a constant challenge for players to keep their eye on the ball! The Resort is approximately 450 metres above sea level and due to the higher altitude, the ball travels about one club farther in distance. Most golfers who venture out to Terrace Downs will play regardless of circumstances, but it’s always best to check the weather forecast before coming out to the Resort. Throughout the Spring equinox season the wind tends to increase in strength.
Only a fifty-minute drive from the Christchurch airport I’d say there’d be a good temptation to drive over to Terrace Downs anyway, even if the weather is acting up. The resort’s restaurant is known as one of the best places on the Downs for a superb dining experience, especially while watching the world blow by.
And blow it did on the day my friend and I played Terrace Downs. Coping with the wind was quite an experience but I was determined to play the short par three 16th. Definitely a signature hole with dramatically beautiful views across to the Mount Hutt range and across the Rakaia River Gorge.
More news to follow as Terrace Downs heads into its most exciting year ever with golf tournaments galore, exciting new activities like jet boating down the Rakaia River Gorge, the luxury of pampering at The Spa and special event holidays in the High Country. Congratulations to the new management and the fine and supportive staff at Terrace Downs. Wind no wind – what a great place!
As an owner at Terrace Downs I am glad you enjoyed your game of golf in the High Country.
Terrace Downs Villas is a group of owners that offer discounted accommodation to the public via our web site http://www.terracedownsvillas.com. We can cater for groups of up to 20 so if you are getting a party together let me know. We can certainly help and offer you all a very good price.
Might see you on the Terrace Downs Golf Course one day!