Jack’s Point’s spectacular championship course overlooking  Lake Wakatipu is in the limelight nationally and internationally and in 2020 was named New Zealand’s Best Golf Course at the World Golf Awards for its unique design and outstanding natural features. QT Magazine spoke to Jack’s Point head professional of golf Luke Leesburg.

• What distinguishes Jack’s Point from other New Zealand courses? 

It’s a totally different experience because of its location on the edge of Lake Wakatipu and below The Remarkables mountain range. The course is in harmony with the nature surrounding it and for those visiting New Zealand it captures the essence of the dramatic scenery of the Whakatipu basin. The Darby designed course works effortlessly with the environment and provides all golfers a challenging but memorable round of golf.

• Why is the NZ Open important to golf in Queenstown and New Zealand?

It puts the spotlight on Queenstown as New Zealand’s premier golf destination which impacts the wider Otago and Southland communities and adds a real buzz in the lead up to and during the championship. Because of the international media coverage and the special format of the tournament the competition attracts amateurs and professional players from many different countries particularly in the Asia Pacific rim. 

Is Jack’s Point planning any events around the NZ Open?

We are hosting The Lake Tewa Invitational over 18 holes with an elite field of 30 of New Zealand’s top professionals who will tee up alongside 90 amateur players in a team format. This Jack’s Point event will have a $50 thousand prize money professional purse alongside an outstanding array of prizes for amateur players.

• What’s new at Jack’s Point golf course?

We are constantly looking at ways to improve what we offer at Jack’s Point. Our valued maintenance team keep course in excellent condition year-round and will be adding touches to the courses presentation leading into and over the NZ Open week. Our golf operations are upgrading the 75 strong cart fleet with Lithium battery carts and full GPS systems fitted in 2023. 

• Tell us about replay rounds at Jack’s Point?

We find most visitors are not satisfied with only one round because Jack’s Point is a great design with many nuances alongside breathtaking scenery. A replay round is a must allowing visitors to formulate their own game plan to play the course from the experience of their first round. We provide an incentive for people to replay and many golfers are keen to take up the offer.

• What can golfers expect over summer 2023 at Jack’s Point?

A golfing experience that will last a lifetime on a course presented to international standards. Our fescue fairways and rough alongside our brown top greens and tees provide outstanding playing surfaces. The transition into summer brings an incredible array of contrasting grasses and surrounding vegetation.     

• Which hole is a favourite at Jack’s Point?

The 7^th hole consistently takes the number one spot for our guests’ favourite experience. It’s a 130metre Par 3  with such spectacular views that tend to distract even the most focused golfer.  The outlook to Cecil and Walter Peaks and the panoramic views of Lake Whakatipu across to central Queenstown are astounding.

• Is professional coaching available at Jack’s Point ?

We have two NZPGA Professionals and coaching is available for individuals, small  groups and clinic style tuition plus on course strategic play. 

• Are bookings essential to play Jack’s Point?

Book as soon as possible as golfing holidays in Queenstown are in high demand with international visitors travelling again. Queenstown is part of their travel itinerary and our current and forward bookings are solid.