About Maungakiekie Golf Club
Maungakiekie Golf Club is an 18-hole parkland course set high on Mt Roskill in Auckland, known for its mature contours, fringed by native trees and abundant birdlife . The club’s elevated location gives stunning westward views over the course to the Waitakere Ranges and Manukau Harbour, all just about a 15-minute drive from Auckland’s city centre or airport . Founded in 1909, Maungakiekie is one of Auckland’s older clubs: it began on the slopes of One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie) and even hosted a young Prince of Wales (the future King Edward VIII) and Lord Mountbatten for a round in 1920 . Today it’s prized by golfers for its scenic, well-contoured layout, cool breezes, and classic Kiwi club atmosphere .
The Clubhouse itself is a hilltop landmark, with a large lounge and bar on the second storey that can accommodate up to 150 guests . Indoors you’ll find comfortable seating, a fully stocked bar and café (Cafe 1909, open daily from 9am ), plus meeting and function rooms like the Cornwall Room for smaller gatherings . Golfers warm up on top-tier practice facilities – including an indoor driving range, short game green, and a floodlit putting green right by the clubhouse for evening practice . A well-stocked pro shop offers clubs, apparel and rentals. Maungakiekie prides itself on a relaxed, welcoming Kiwi vibe – members describe it as a friendly community where golfers “meet like-minded individuals” and feel at home .
History and Heritage
The roots of Maungakiekie Golf Club date back over a century. It was founded in 1909 to continue golf at One Tree Hill Domain after the Auckland Golf Club moved to Middlemore . For two decades it coexisted alongside what became Titirangi Golf Club, but in 1931 the club formally split: those staying on One Tree Hill renamed themselves Maungakiekie (the Māori name for One Tree Hill) and carried on golf there . A treasured memento is a 1920 photograph of the then-Prince of Wales and Lord Mountbatten playing on the old course – even the club’s history write-up boasts of having that signed image in its gallery .
In World War II the club lost access to the Cornwall Park site, so members scrambled to secure a new home. By 1942 they had acquired the current 18-hole site on rural Anita Avenue, Mt Roskill. They literally moved hills: members cut fairways, planted trees and even repurposed Army surplus huts to serve as the first clubhouse . During the war, grateful members played at neighboring Akarana GC until their own fairways were ready, a goodwill that cemented a lasting friendship between the clubs . In 1965 the membership cleared and subdivided large blocks of surplus land at the front of the property – selling off those sections financed the excellent brick clubhouse that serves the club today . In recent decades the course has been upgraded by noted architects (for example, holes were remodelled by David Harman, best known for Kauri Cliffs) to keep in tune with modern standards .
Events and Programming
As an active golf club, Maungakiekie hosts competitions and social golf throughout the year. Club members and guests can play daily on the 18-hole layout or 9-hole options; the club runs weekly stableford and medal events for men, women and juniors, as well as special monthly tournaments, haggles and pennant teams. Named trophies (Val McKenna, Elliffe Cup, George Emmons, McEwan etc.) are contested seasonally in men’s and women’s divisions . Veterans and juniors have their own series (for example the “Kelectric Junior Series” on Sundays). One of the most popular is the summer Twilight 9-hole series (Shotgun start on Wednesday evenings) which welcomes members and guests of all abilities . In 2025/26 the Twilight Series runs Wednesdays from mid-October in 3 divisions, with low entry fees ($10 for members, $20 with GolfPoints, $30 visitors) and weekly prizes .
Beyond golf, the Maungakiekie Lounge & Bar doubles as a versatile event venue. Its hilltop location and free-standing Cornwall Room mean it’s often booked for corporate functions, birthday parties or community events. With formal seating for up to 150 people (2nd floor lounge) plus a separate private room, a licensed bar, flexible catering and an in-house sound system, it’s marketed as ideal for both small and large gatherings . The venue’s panoramic windows are a selling point – guests enjoy the famous view of distant mountains and harbour while dining or listening to speeches. The club’s administration can provide quotes for weddings, conferences or other private functions in the lounge area.
Tickets and Booking
There is no central box office – golf is generally paid at the clubhouse. Visitors are welcome any day but are strongly advised to book ahead. Teetimes can be reserved online via the club’s booking system or by calling the Pro Shop/Golf Shop . Walk-ins are accepted only if slots are available, but it’s wise to phone before traveling. Members and many reciprocal club golfers get priority; non-members (including junior or 9-hole players) should book several days in advance, especially on weekends and public holidays. For club competitions and Twilights, sign-ups are done through the Golf Shop as well.
Green fees as of 2024 are modest. Adult 18-hole rates are about NZD $70 on weekdays and $80 on weekends or holidays (junior rates are roughly half that). Nine-hole rounds run around $45–50. Golf club hire (full iron set) is available too – about $30–$40 for 18 holes (standard vs premium sets) – and golf carts (two-seat electric) are about $50 for 18 holes . Many players bring their own trolleys (folding push buggies) or electric trundlers; the club rents standard push trolleys for $5. Payment is made at the Pro Shop upon check-in (cash or EFTPOS). Visitors should arrive at least 10–15 minutes before their tee time to register and warm up .
Seating and Layout
Maungakiekie’s layout is typical of a suburban golf course rather than a stadium. There are no fixed spectator stands or grand avenues – the fairways wind through parkland, so spectators usually follow golfers on foot or rest at greenside. The best viewing “seats” are in latter holes near the clubhouse; for example, the 18th green sits next to the large patios, so you can watch finishing holes from the upper lounge or outdoor deck. Inside the clubhouse, the second-floor lounge offers roomy dining seating that looks out over the course. For events, the lounge space is arranged with tables and chairs in a flexible banquet style (as noted, up to 150 seated) . The Cornwall Room off to one side is separate and more private – it’s often used for meetings or breakouts. The bar area downstairs is casual with high-top tables and a TV. In good weather, the veranda and patio outside the lounge are popular spots to soak up the view. As one golfer put it, even non-players “love this golf club’s excellent bar and café with prompt service and beautiful views” .
Getting There and Parking
Maungakiekie Golf Club is at 5 Anita Avenue, Mount Roskill, Auckland (suburb postcode 1041). It’s easily reached by car. From central Auckland or the airport, take State Highway 20 or Great North/Mt Eden roads toward Mt Roskill and turn onto Anita Ave just west of Hillsborough Rd. The address is on the south side of Anita Avenue (between Sandringham and Hillsborough Roads). Extensive free parking for over 150 vehicles is provided on site . There are two tiers of parking: the lower lot (near the Golf Shop and 1st tee) and an upper lot directly adjacent to the clubhouse bar and café . During tournaments, overflow street parking can be found on nearby residential roads (observe any local parking restrictions). Rideshare or taxi drop-offs can be arranged at the club entrance on Anita Ave.
Public transport is available but requires a short walk or transfer. Auckland Transport buses run along nearby arterials: for example, routes 66 (Mt Eden-City-Onehunga) and 67/67L (Avondale/Otahuhu via Mt Albert and Dominion) service Mt Roskill via Hillsborough and Mt Albert roads. Alight at the Mt Roskill shops or Hillsborough Rd bus stops, then walk ~10–15 minutes north along Graham or Anita Ave to the club. The Western Railway Line stops at Mt Albert or Mt Eden stations, which are a 10–15 minute drive (or 1-2 bus stops) away. A convenient option is to take the train toward Avondale and then catch a 66/67 bus. In general, car travel is far more direct; from downtown Auckland it takes roughly 20 minutes without traffic, and from Auckland Airport about 15 minutes . Always check AT Metro schedules for nighttime service – there is an after-midnight ‘NiteRider’ bus on some routes, but taxis or rideshares may be needed for late departures.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, golfers check in at the Golf Shop next to the first tee, where staff will confirm your booking, take green fee payment, and issue scorecards. Visitors should note the dress code: smart-casual golf attire is required. Collared shirts and neat shorts or slacks are expected; denim, football jerseys, tank tops and game jerseys are not permitted on the course . Soft spikes or running shoes are fine. The club ambience is relaxed – most players change in the lounge or bring a duffel to the first tee.
The clubhouse offers modern amenities. Restrooms and shower facilities are available downstairs near the bar and Pro Shop. Wi-Fi coverage is typical of suburban NZ clubs, so connectivity should be adequate in the lounge area (though golfers often spot lost mobile signal out on the course). The bar serves a range of beers, wines and spirits, and snacks are available at the Café 1909 counter . The café menu includes sandwiches, pies, salads and hot meals; it opens each morning and runs during golf hours, often with daily specials. After your round (or during twilight competitions), the lounge is open serving hot bar food and beverages until late afternoon.
For those wishing to practice, all facilities are free for players. There are buckets of balls for the indoor warm-up net and the driving range (coins or tokens might be needed). A short-game green with fairway lies is beside the 18th tee, and a large putting green (lit at night) sits right in front of the clubhouse . Golfers also appreciate the equipment-cleaning station: an air hose and water hose at the back of the 18th green let you wash shoes and clubs departure . A final perk for members (and helpful to know for guests) is that the club offers secure on-site storage lockers for carts and bags .
Nearby Amenities
Maungakiekie’s suburbs offer plenty of everyday amenities within a short drive. If you arrive early or stay after golf, you’ll find food and drink options nearby. The Mt Roskill village centre (on Hillsborough and Dominion Roads, about 1–2 km north) has several cafes, a fish & chip shop, and takeaways serving sushi, Indian, Chinese and Pacific cuisines. Popular local spots include a New Zealand-style pub at the Roskill RSA (Returned Services Association) near the village and small family-run restaurants on nearby streets. Within a 5–10 minute drive, you’ll reach larger hubs: Mt Eden village and Three Kings center both have supermarkets, liquor stores and a range of eatery choices from fast food to Deli cafés. Late-night travelers can head into the city – Auckland’s central bars and restaurants are only ~15 minutes away when traffic is clear.
For those staying overnight, the area has several motels and B&Bs. The closest are in neighbouring suburbs: Saint Johns or Panmure hotels (for middle-range Budget Inn or Airport hotels), or Mt Eden guesthouses. Many visitors simply stay in CBD hotels or near the airport, since those are an easy drive from Maungakiekie. On event days, it’s wise to allow extra travel time, as leaving from a big event could coincide with evening traffic. Rideshare and taxi stands are available at the clubhouse entrance if you need a late-night pickup.
What Makes This Venue Special
Maungakiekie stands out for its blend of history, community spirit and scenery. Few Auckland clubs offer its vantage “on the hill” – the panoramic western outlook to the ranges and harbor is unique . The club’s avid membership and legacy in central Tāmaki (Auckland) give it a storied feel: it was at the forefront of golf’s growth in the city and still honors that by hosting trophies and events that date back decades . Golf Digest (NZ) calls it a mature, graceful course that has kept pace with modern design – the course challenges players of all levels with its contoured fairways and updated greens .
Another special feature is the club culture. Maungakiekie was created by locals and retains that friendly neighbourhood club vibe. Visiting golfers often note the warm reception – juniors and new members are actively welcomed and the dress code is fairly relaxed. Even though ceremonies and city life buzz below, up on the course and in the lounge it feels like a community gathering place. The club’s efforts to “make golf more accessible to all” through flexible memberships and plenty of social golf options are often cited in club literature . In short, both Kiwis and visitors enjoy Maungakiekie for its history (over 110 years old) and its role as a slice of real Kiwi golf life. As one review sums up: “A nice course to play” with “friendly folk to have a beer with after your round” , where the scenic setting only adds to the atmosphere.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The clubhouse and course are mostly on sloping ground. The lounge/bar area is upstairs, but there is ground-level access to the café and Cornwall Room via ramps or a lift. Most visiting golfers simply park on the upper tier to enter the lounge easily . The course itself has a few steep fairways – be prepared for ups and downs on foot . There are multiple toilets inside the clubhouse (including an accessible stall) and wheelchair parking spots near the entrance. If in doubt, call the club office ahead – staff are happy to address any access needs.
What to Bring: Obviously your golf clubs or arrange rentals in advance . Good walking shoes are important (this is a hilly course) . A sweater or rain jacket is wise even in summer; Auckland weather can change quickly. Sunscreen and a cap are recommended on sunny days. Members advise bringing coins for the driving range machines and small bills for a post-round drink if you plan to tip. If you have a trolley or electric trolley, you may store it on site (charges apply) – not all golfers bring carts voluntarily. Drink plenty of water; the water cooler is just outside the pro shop.
What Not to Do: The club enforces its dress code strictly on the course – no sleeveless tees, runners or jeans during play . Avoid wearing football jerseys or sports team attire in the clubhouse. Outside alcohol and food are not allowed (the club has full catering and bar services). Also, don’t assume pace-of-play: it can get busy at weekends. Keep up with your group and allow faster golfers through if asked. Reviewers have noted slow groups can be frustrating, so be ready for the possibility .
Age Restrictions: All ages are welcome. Children can play in family groups (there are junior tees per scorecard ratings). Anyone under 18 must be supervised by an adult. Junior members (under 18) are free if a parent joins , and the club often runs school holiday coaching and junior tournaments.
When to Arrive: Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before your tee time to sign in and warm up on the range. The pro shop opens at 7am on weekdays (earlier on weekend mornings), and the first tee is usually in play by 8 am. There’s no official “curfew” – in winter play continues until dusk – but you should book your last tee by mid-afternoon in winter to avoid darkness. Parking is available all day, and gates may remain unlocked after hours for members; visitors leaving late (after golf shop closing) should park on Anita Avenue.
Insider Tip: The best view is often best appreciated during a late afternoon tee time or twilight round – evening light on the ranges is superb. Also, if you want a quiet round, try midweek early-morning or late-afternoon weekday slots when the course is usually emptier. And don’t miss the chance to enjoy the floodlit putting green if you’re playing twilight – it’s a unique warm-up facility. Lastly, always check the club’s website or call ahead for any temporary course closures (e.g. for maintenance or private events) on the day of your visit .
