Meet the personalities behind the scorecards. In this NZ Golf Magazine series, we’re getting to know golf enthusiasts from across New Zealand — their favourite courses, memorable moments and what keeps them coming back.
You don’t need a low handicap — just a love of the game!
Meet Dan Turner, a Nelson golfer with 11 years in the game and a sharp 1.5 handicap. Calling Nelson Golf Club (Nelson Links) home, Dan joins our Clubhouse Characters series to share his favourite courses, memorable moments and what keeps him coming back. Follow his golfing journey under @Hack_Daniels_NZ
How Did Golf Get You Hooked?
I spent many years living in Queenstown as a bit of a snowboarding bum, chasing winters and spending as much time on the mountain as possible. When I hit my 30s, life started getting a little more serious, and I needed something to fill my summer weekends.
Being surrounded by some of New Zealand’s most stunning golf courses, golf was the obvious choice — and 11 years later, I’m well and truly hooked!
What Keeps You Coming Back?
The competitive side of golf is a big one for me, especially in recent years, as I’ve always been a sportsman at heart and still love pushing myself to improve.
But equally, it’s about being outdoors and getting to experience some of the most incredible scenery and locations through the game. Much like my snowboarding days, golf gives me that perfect combination of competition, adventure and the great outdoors!
Give Us the Local Knowledge
It’s hard to beat the signature 6th hole at Nelson Golf Club, a stunning little coastal par 3, especially on a sunny Nelson day with the tide in! On a calm day, with the pin in the middle or back, there are plenty of ways to attack it, but my local tip is simple: just find the green. Missing it anywhere can be trouble, so give yourself a putt for birdie and happily walk away with a two or three!
Where Else in New Zealand Do You Love Playing?
I’ve been lucky enough to play some incredible courses around New Zealand, from Jack’s Point and The Hills in Queenstown to some amazing little hidden gems around the country.
But if I had to pick just one outside my home course, it would have to be Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary in Taupō. The whole experience is something special, from the stunning surroundings and wildlife to the incredible course itself — it’s a place I’d happily play over and over again!
What’s Your Most Memorable Golfing Moment?
One of my most memorable golfing moments would have to be making six birdies over seven holes, including five consecutive birdies! I ended up shooting in the mid-60s that day, making it one of those rare rounds where everything just seemed to click.
Definitely one of those days you wish you could bottle up and repeat!
What’s the Best Part of Your Golf Game — And What Needs Work?
Like most golfers, I’d probably say it’s all a bit average at times! But when the driver’s behaving, I can still be sneaky long for an old fella, and if I’m finding fairways, it’s probably the strongest part of my game.
Wedge play, on the other hand, definitely needs some attention — pretty much every aspect of it could do with some improvement!
Who’s Joining Your Dream Fourball?
I’ll go with the cliché pick first, Tiger Woods — how could you not! Then fellow Kiwi Ryan Fox, an absolute legend in the making and someone who seems like a genuinely good lad to share 18 holes and a few laughs with. And to round out the fourball, my old man, Dad — because what better way to enjoy a dream round than having him there too!
What Would You Tell Someone Thinking About Giving Golf a Go?
Enjoy the journey! Golf is a bloody hard game, arguably one of the hardest sports in the world, so be patient, keep it simple and don’t forget to have fun, even once you’re hooked. And most importantly, use golf as an excuse to explore some incredible places, because much like skiing or snowboarding, this game can take you to some of the most stunning locations and landscapes around the world!
