WAAHI TAAKARO GOLF CLUB

A short drive from the centre of Nelson in the Maitai Valley is the Waahi Taakaro Golf Club. Here, the Nelson City Council-owned course allows the casual golfer a chance to play a round for a very friendly fee. The parkland course has the Maitai River running through it — keep an eye out for trout and eels — and is dotted with trees, many of them deciduous, which produce a stunning spectacle in autumn and spring.

There are two sets of tees on every hole and the undulating terrain — note that holes 4 to 6 are on what is known as Coronary Hill — and small greens ensure golfers can look forward to an enjoyable but challenging round. The onsite clubrooms include changing rooms, toilets, lockers and a lounge with bar and kitchen facilities.

Green fees: $18 (9 holes), $23 (18 holes); Gold Card-holders $15 (9 holes), $20 (18 holes); $7 (under18s, 9 or 18 holes). There is a 20 per cent discount for NZ-affiliated players.