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 Shekinah “Shak” Phillips, a Rotorua golfer who’s been getting into the swing of things since June 2026. Playing at Lakeview with a handicap of 45.3, Shak joins our Clubhouse Characters series to share her introduction to golf and what keeps her coming back. Follow her golfing journey on Instagram at @Shak.golfs.
How I got into golf
My fiancée was the one who introduced me to golf, and knowing he felt bad being gone for hours, I hesitantly said I’d join him for a hit one day. Little did I know I’d fall in love with the sport too. What made it stick was having something we could enjoy together.
What keeps me coming back
I think what keeps me coming back is that there’s always something new to learn. I also became a mum this year, so golf has given me something outside of that role that I genuinely enjoy. Being able to share it with my partner makes it even more special.
Favourite hole at my home course
Hole 11 at Lakeview is a goodie. It’s a fun par 4 with a fairly straight fairway and a bunker just short of the green. A little tip from my uncle, who knows this course inside out, is to aim straight at the bunker with enough power to hit the back wall and ricochet onto the green behind it, rather than trying to hit over it.
Favourite course away from home
Ōhope Beach Golf Links has to be one of my favourite courses away from home so far. I haven’t explored too many courses outside of the Bay of Plenty yet, but this one is definitely up there, with its stunning coastal views and picturesque setting. I’m keen to get out and explore more courses around the country!
My most memorable golf moment
My most memorable golf moment has to be getting my very first par! It was also my first time playing on my own at Hamurana Golf Course, on hole 8. You have to hit over a body of water, and the last time I played it, I couldn’t make it across. This time, I struck the ball perfectly and watched it fly over the water and land right on the green!
I even had a chance at birdie, but walking away with my first par as a beginner golfer was just as exciting. To come back and conquer a hole I’d struggled with before made it such a proud moment for me. Definitely one I won’t forget!
The best part of my game right now
I think the best part of my game right now is seeing little bits of improvement each time I play. I’m still learning and have a long way to go, but it’s nice when things start to click, even if it doesn’t happen every round. Putting is definitely something I’m working on, as I seem to be the queen of three-plus putts right now, so improving that is a big focus to hopefully bring my scores down.
My dream fourball
Ryan Fox, Lydia Ko and Nelly Korda would have to be my dream fourball. Two Kiwi legends and Nelly to round it out. What a group to play a round with!
My best advice for beginner golfers
My best advice is HAVE FUN! Enjoy the good shots and laugh off the bad ones. Golf can be frustrating, especially when you’re learning, but don’t put too much pressure on yourself; the best part is getting out there and giving it a go!
