Manaia
The
Manaia Golf Club is one of the oldest golf clubs in Taranaki, being established
in 1905 with the first ball being “struck in anger” on August
24th. Centennial celebrations schedules for 2004 are currently being planned.
The current course was extended to 18 holes in the mid 1960's and is situated
on the outskirts of the Manaia Township 15km west of Hawera. The course
is built on almost 80 acres of fertile Land in the heart of the intensive
dairy farming area of the Waimate Plains, and offers picturesque views
of both Mt Egmont and the Tasman Sea. The course measures 5319 metres
in length and has a par 71.
The clubhouse and four holes, plus the green of another are situated on
an area of Domain land which includes the historic Manaia Redoubt and
a fine stand of native and exotic trees many of which are over a hundred
years old. The remainder of the course is on the other side of a small
stream (the Waiokura); the entire course is mainly flat and easy walking
ideal for the casual golfer.
Fairways are relatively wide and defined by trees, mainly Pohutukawas.
In recent years strategic plantings have been made which will help tighten
the course as these trees grow and come into play.
At first glance the course may look relatively easy but this can be misleading.
"Out of Bounds" is a major factor, running the full length of
9 holes, including the first four. Lateral water hazards run full length
of the 8th and I0th fairways whilst the short par 3 ninth is played over
the Waiokura stream through a narrow gap in the trees. Greens are relatively
large with 9 protected by sand bunkers (20 in all) whilst either mounds
or shallow grass bunkers surround all greens. Greens and surrounds are
well covered by an efficient sprinkler system.
The clubhouse has a good-sized lounge and we boast a well appointed bar
area with 4 brews currently "on tap". Catering is provided by
the club lady members and is of a very high standard.
The Manaia course is used regularly by the Taranaki Association for events
such as senior pennants and representative trials and has on occasion
hosted representative fixtures. In addition to its own tournament programme,
the club hosts several annual events for other organisations, notably
the I.H.C. and frequently hosts fields well in excess of 200 players.
Green fees are only $15.00 for affiliated players and $20.00 for those
non affiliated.
Club Information
Karaka
Street
Manaia
Phone: (06) 274 8325
manaia@golf.co.nz
