Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, nestled on the Kapiti Coast of New Zealand’s North Island, is a classic links course revered for its historic layout and challenging gameplay. Established in 1949 and designed by Alex Russell, a protégé of the renowned Alister MacKenzie, this course has long been celebrated as one of the purest testaments to traditional links golf in the Southern Hemisphere.

Paraparaumu Beach is a par-71 course, stretching just over 6,500 yards. The course’s design leverages the natural sand dune terrain, presenting undulating fairways and complex greens that command strategic thinking and precision. The rough is populated with native beach grasses that sway in the ocean breeze, penalizing wayward shots and enhancing the natural links experience.

The layout features several signature holes, with the 4th and the 8th being particularly notable. The 4th hole, a challenging par-4, requires a tee shot that navigates through narrow landing zones flanked by dunes, leading to a subtly sloping green. The 8th hole, also a par-4, offers golfers panoramic views of the Tasman Sea, demanding accuracy over distance, with strategic bunkering near the green to challenge even the most skilled golfers.

Wind is a constant factor at Paraparaumu Beach, significantly influencing play. Conditions can change quickly, with gusts coming off the sea, making each round uniquely challenging and requiring golfers to adapt their tactics continually. This variability ensures that no two rounds are ever the same and that the course maintains a fresh and engaging challenge for all levels of golfers.

Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club has hosted the New Zealand Open twelve times, a testament to its quality and the challenge it poses. It has attracted legends of the game, including Tiger Woods, and continues to be a must-play for serious golfers visiting New Zealand. The club's modest, unassuming clubhouse belies the exceptional golfing experience available, making it a cherished destination for those who love the game’s rich traditions and seek a formidable test of their skills.