As the international golfing world turns its eyes to Central Otago for the New Zealand Open, Gibbston Valley is ready to steal the spotlight. The region’s newest premier golfing destination, the Gibbston Valley Golf Club, will officially open its doors on Monday, March 2, bringing a fresh, refined energy to the iconic valley.
Located at 135 Toms Creek Road, the club features an immaculate nine-hole, par 32 course designed by Kiwi golfing legend Greg Turner. The course is anchored by a sophisticated new Clubhouse that serves as a hub for both sport and luxury, boasting a restaurant, gymnasium, heated pool, jacuzzi, and pro shop.
A New Standard for “Shorter Form” Golf
The course was intentionally designed to cater to both seasoned pros and newcomers, aligning with a growing global trend toward accessible, high-quality play.
“I think this shorter form golf has a real future,” says architect Greg Turner. “You have all of the quality and fun of the long form of the game but in a format that doesn’t take up so much time. When you add the stunning surroundings, I’m sure this will be a great success.”
Refined Design & Local Collaboration
The Clubhouse, a collaboration between Condon Scott Architects, Lakeside Design & Build, and Space Studios, offers an aesthetic of “approachable refinement.”
Beyond the greens, the club has leaned into local artistry. Partnering with Arrowtown fashion designer Natalie Newlands, the Pro Shop will feature exclusive premium polo shirts alongside world-renowned brands like FootJoy and Glenmuir. To complete the experience, the Clubhouse restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon appetizers daily from 10 am to 6 pm, paired with the celebrated Gibbston Valley Collection of wines.
A Vision Decades in the Making
For Gibbston Valley Executive Managing Director Cristina Griffith, the opening is deeply personal. Griffith is one of only six women competing in the New Zealand Open Pro-Am Championship at Millbrook this week (Feb 26 – March 1).
“The idea of a golf course has been floating around our family conversations for more than a decade,” says Griffith. “My dad, Phil, along with Greg Turner, spent years imagining what it could be. To now be part of bringing it to life feels incredibly special. It is a true destination golf club.”
Membership and Public Access
While membership is primarily limited to owners in The Reserve, the club has announced it will release a limited number of non-resident memberships for the 2026-2027 season.
Public Access Includes:
The Course: Open for public play.
The Restaurant: Open daily to all visitors.
Wellness Facilities: Day passes are available for the gym, pool, and jacuzzi.