Golf tourism in New Zealand is set to get a boost after the launch of the Great NZ Golf Guide, a new AA Traveller/Tourism New Zealand partner publication that will highlight the very best New Zealand has to offer golfers.

Over the last year more than 36,000 international tourists played golf while visiting New Zealand, spending approximately $169 million – almost $5000 each.

After recognising the potential of developing the golf market further, AA Traveller and Tourism New Zealand teamed up to create the Great NZ Golf Guide. This builds on the work that Tourism New Zealand is doing to showcase New Zealand as a world-class golfing destination.

“We’re steadily seeing travel numbers and tourist investment into golf in New Zealand increase, which is why we wanted to make the information about our premium golf destinations easy to access by compiling it into an engaging, easy to read publication,” says AA Tourism Publishing General Manager Moira Penman.

Twelve marquee courses and 28 New Zealand Experience courses are covered in the guide that goes beyond golf by giving visitors information on other regional activities, seasons and weather, driving distances and provides information on New Zealand road rules.

“New Zealand offers incredible variety, from oceanfront subtropical courses in the north to alpine settings in the south, with the short direct flights making this a very attractive destination for Australian golfers,” says Tony Rogers, Marketing Manager Special Interest, Tourism New Zealand.

“Tourism New Zealand is particularly focused on golfers in Australia who are looking for a unique and rewarding golfing holiday experience that includes other nearby activities.”

Golfing visitors tend to stay longer in New Zealand on average, spending 26 days here compared with other holiday visitors who stay for an average 16 days, according to Tourism New Zealand research. Mr Rogers says they are also more likely to do other activities like visiting wineries and vineyards while here.

“This golfing guide, with its rich information about our best golf courses and surrounding activities, is a great way to showcase our diversity and how accessible our courses are.”

The Great NZ Golf Guide is set to launch in early June 2016, adding to AA Traveller’s other niche titles including the highly successful New Zealand Cycle Trails Guide.