Golfers Dream Newsletter June 2007

It's the middle of winter here in New Zealand but time to start thinking about planning your next golfing vacation. This month we are featuring the region of Taupo. Your feedback and comments on what you want to hear about our fabulous country are most welcome. Warmest regards, Ray & Di Houghton

Photos (Click image to view slideshow)

Lake Taupo

Situated in the central north island of New Zealand. Only 1 hour drive from Rotorua. When you think of the Lake Taupo region, Think Fresh... as in fresh air, snow, trout, volcanoes, rivers, lakes, people, fun, food and attitudes. Lake Taupo itself was created by the largest known eruption of the past 5,000 years, it was so big the sun went hazy in China . Today, what remains is a lake the size of Singapore and the largest fresh water lake in Australasia

Wairakei International Golf Course

Nestled in a wooded valley just north of Lake Taupo this picturesque 35 year old golf course offers a total experience for players of all levels. The course is set out on 156 hectares of former farmland in the middle of the Wairakei Tourist Park boasting lush manicured fairways and greens, mature tree plantings and magnificent vistas. No built-up areas in sight! The spacious secluded nature of the course and the park like surroundings create a tranquil atmosphere. The presence of tuis, fantails and other native birds is an added bonus and a native tree planting programme is currently underway to encourage more native birds. The course is challenging - sporting its fair share of water hazards and bunkers - however the New Zealand owners and course management have ensured that the average golfer can still enjoy the golf and soak up the atmosphere along the way.

Point View Lodge

Point View Lodge offers sweeping views over Lake Taupo to Rangatira Point and down to the lake and Mountains of Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe, all this only six minutes from Taupo shopping and restaurant centre of Taupo Town. You will be captivated by the lodges’ bush walk and private thermal spa Dinners at Point View are highly recommended and available upon request. Every evening, guests are welcome to gather for canapes in the guest lounge or, in summer, on the deck. The selections change daily and are matched with New Zealand wine.

Lake Taupo Scenic Cruise

Smell the coffee brewing as you board the Cruise Cat, take a seat and enjoy all the comforts as you cruise to the Maori Rock Carvings. A full commentary is given on the history of Lake Taupo as you cruise out of the Taupo marina. Take in the fabulous views of secluded bays and the spectacular mountain peaks of Tongariro National Park . The sites are amazing all year round

Coaching Tip - Check Your Pressure

Tip from Hank Johnson. Nothing kills a swing faster than jerking, twisting and clutching at the club. To keep your grip pressure constant during your swing, imagine you are holding a tube of toothpaste upside down with the cap off. Work on swinging without "squeezing" any toothpaste out of the tube. Find a way to do this and you'll be amazed at your progress.