About Boulcott’s Farm Heritage Golf Club
Boulcott’s Farm Heritage Golf Club is a premier golf club and event venue in Lower Hutt, Wellington. The sprawling 18-hole estate (about 10–15km north-east of Wellington city) sits amid park-like grounds by the Hutt River. It boasts a championship par-71 course (approximately 5933 metres from the tips with USGA-spec greens) designed by architect Chris Pitman (www.golfwellington.co.nz ). There is also a 6-hole short course (Summerset Six) for quick play or practice, plus a driving range and practice greens. The club opened on these grounds in 1938 (named for Richard Boulcott’s farmland) and underwent a major redevelopment in the 2010s when the historic Hutt Golf Club (dating from 1892) merged with Boulcott’s Farm to create New Zealand’s first “Heritage” golf club (www.golfwellington.co.nz ) (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ). That heritage link is key to the club’s identity. The modern clubhouse (opened mid-2010s) offers multiple function rooms and the Farm Café & Bar, all with large windows overlooking the course (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ) (www.golfwellington.co.nz ). Today the club has over 1,000 members (including many juniors) and is one of the busiest clubs in the country (www.golfwellington.co.nz ). Its signature features are the firm, well-draining fairways and large, undulating greens that suit a “target golf” style (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ) (www.golfwellington.co.nz ), the scenic valley views to the Tararua Range, and the blend of old-world heritage with contemporary facilities.
Events and Programming
Boulcott’s Farm isn’t a concert hall but a full-service golf and events venue. The main calendar is built around golf tournaments and club competitions. Key annual events include the Hutt Cup (an open 36-hole medal event for top men and women in the region, typically on Wellington Anniversary Day) and the Boulcott’s Farm ProAm (a late-summer 18-hole team competition pairing amateurs with professionals) (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ) (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ). Within the membership there are regular Competitions: a Club Championship, the Wilford Cup matchplay foursomes, the St. Andrews Cross and Medal singles knockouts, the Presidents Cup team event and even a “Two-Up Club” tournament for anyone who scores a two. Members also play regular midweek and weekend medal and stableford rounds. Other golfing activity includes twilight competitions, junior clinics, and casual social games.
Beyond golf, the clubhouse hosts private business and social events. The club has three modern function/conference rooms that can be combined or divided (www.mapquest.com ) (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ). Formal dinners, weddings and corporate meetings (up to about 200 guests) are common. These rooms feature AV equipment (projection screens and sound) and can be arranged theatre-style or with banquet tables. Large windows and an outdoor terrace provide views of the 18th green. The Farm Café & Bar often caters these events, serving menus from casual buffet to sit-down dinners. There are no public concerts or theatre performances held here, and no ongoing live entertainment series; most evening activity is booked private events or social dining.
Tickets and Booking
There is no box office selling “tickets” to open shows – instead visitors book golf rounds or private events. Anyone can play golf here by booking a tee time online or by phone. The club uses the Golf New Zealand/NZ Golf booking system and also accepts phone or email bookings through its Pro Shop (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ). Green fees (2023/24 rates) are about NZ$60 for 18 holes midweek and $70 on weekends; nine-hole and junior rates are cheaper (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ). The 6-hole short course and footgolf are just $10 per round (footgolf balls $10, clubs $5 to hire) (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ). To guarantee a slot on busy days, book well in advance (especially holiday weekends). There’s no single “ticket price” or gate – you simply pay the green fee or cart hire at the pro shop or online.
For functions (weddings, conferences, parties), you make a booking with the Club’s Hospitality Manager (phone 04 567 4722 ext 3 or email) to discuss packages (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ). Popular event dates (summer evenings, holidays) can book out months ahead. Payment arrangements vary – typically a deposit and per-head fee based on the chosen menu. Because these are private functions, walk-in attendance isn’t possible; guests must get tickets or invites from the organiser. The club’s website may list open tournaments and competitions (with entry forms on GolfNZ), but there is no public ‘gig list’ or venue events calendar for paid ticketholders.
Seating and Layout
The clubhouse is donor-designed for flexibility rather than fixed seating. The main bar/lounge has low couches and tables, fronted by large bay windows looking onto the 18th fairway. There are several dining areas and three rentable function rooms. The largest room can fit roughly 120–150 people at round tables (for a wedding or banquet) and can also be opened to join the bar area for larger parties. Two smaller meeting rooms seat about 20–50 each (configuration varies). All rooms have movable chairs and tables (no fixed theatre seats or stage). An outdoor covered patio off the lounge overlooks the 18th green – a popular spot to stand or picnic while watching golfers finish the last hole.
There is no ignition seating or amphitheatre; spectators on golf days stand along tee boxes or greens. The best viewing spot is usually the terrace behind the 18th green: you can sip a drink from the terrace bar and see players modern in. Otherwise, during play groups on the course, walk quietly well behind the ropes at any hole to watch a tee or green. Inside, avoid blocking doorways or the café line – the staff can point you to open spaces. Note: if the conference room has a projector screen at the front, sitting or standing too far off centre behind a pillar might mean a partial view, so try to find a clear line of sight during meetings or films.
Getting There and Parking
Boulcott’s Farm is at 33 Military Road, Boulcott, Lower Hutt, 5010 . From Wellington, head north on State Highway 2 (Hutt motorway) to the Melling/Lower Hutt exit, then follow High St/Queenstown Rd into Lower Hutt. From Lower Hutt city it’s a 5-minute drive south along High St (SH2) onto Military Road just past Queensgate Mall. The entrance is well-marked. GPS navigation works by searching “Boulcott’s Farm Heritage Golf Club”.
There is ample free parking onsite. Turn into the driveway next to the first tee – you’ll see a main lot beside the clubhouse and extra overflow parking behind it. Expect a few dozen spaces (plus grass overflow for very big events). Parking is free and unallocated. On busy weekend tournament days or large weddings, the lot may fill, in which case staff will direct overflow to adjacent club fields. If you arrive late and the lot is full, try the small street-parking on Military Road or Military Road, but note High Street permits and peak limits.
For public transport, several Metlink buses stop nearby on High Street. The #120 and #121 routes serve Lower Hutt-Melling and stop within a few minutes’ walk (get off at Bells/High or Wall St stops). Lower Hutt’s Waterloo train station (Hutt Valley line) is about 3km away – you’d take a taxi or bus from there. The Melling Line train stops at Melling Station (2km from the course). Ride-share services (Uber, Ola) and taxis can drop you directly at the main entrance. There is no designated ride-share pickup zone, but all drivers can access the car park. For after-dark travel, pre-booking a taxi in advance is wise, as services thin out late at night.
Inside the Venue
Entering the clubhouse, you’ll find the pro shop and reception area first (for golf check-in). Beyond is the main Farm Café and Bar – a casual café with high stools, couches and dining tables. The Cafe serves brunch, lunch and light dinner items (pub fare like burgers, salads, fish & chips, sandwiches) when open. In the evening or for functions the menu expands (for example buffet dinners or canapés). A full-service bar offers local craft beers, wines, spirits and coffee. You can sit inside by the windows or outside on the terrace (often called “the leaners” or patio) next to the 18th green, which is popular in fine weather (www.golfwellington.co.nz ). Service can be slow on very busy days – plan to arrive with time if dining around peak hours.
Off to the sides are the lounge seating and function rooms. These are furnished for comfort – rows of chairs or round tables as needed, and padded lounge chairs near the fireplace. Audio-visual gear (projector and sound system) is built in for meetings or slideshows (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ). Coat hooks or racks may be provided for events; ask staff if you need to stow a jacket or bag. Restrooms (including at least one accessible washroom) are on the ground floor near the lounge. There is no formal coat check; just keep your belongings with you or under a table.
Other in-house amenities: a luggage locker or cubby is not advertised, but personal belongings can remain at your table or in the pro shop. The pro shop (club shop) sells golf equipment, clothing and gifts from top brands (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ) (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ), and also rents clubs or self-drive golf buggies (12 carts are available – book these ahead of time). If you need help on the course, club staff or starters can be found near the 1st tee. Both café and pro shop take card payments. The clubhouse is clean and well-maintained; it has a warm, green-and-wood interior that feels very Kiwinzzy. There’s likely free Wi-Fi for patrons (or at least cell coverage is very good), but if you rely on connectivity, consider checking in at the front desk or asking staff for the network details.
Nearby Amenities
If you want pre-round coffee or a bite outside the club, Boulcott’s Farm is near Lower Hutt’s High Street precinct. Your closest pub/diner is Brew’d Boulcott on High St (about a 2-minute drive) (stargroup.nz ). It offers Kiwi pub classics, pizzas and craft beers. A few fast-food outlets, a petrol station and a small supermarket (New World Boulcott) are also a short drive away. For more variety, Queensgate Shopping Centre (1km north) has a food court, cafes, and chains like Nando’s, BurgerFuel and KFC. The historic Hutt River precinct and city shops are a further 5–10 minutes’ drive north.
Nearby hotels and lodging include Lower Hutt motels (e.g. Hutt City Motel or Dowding St Motel in central Hutt) and serviced apartments. The Hilton DoubleTree in Lower Hutt is right by Queensgate. Wellington city center (15–20 minute drive via SH2) has larger hotels from the QT/Langham down to the Ibis Budget. If you plan a late finish, central Lower Hutt has taxis, or you can head back to Wellington for late-night mass transit. For public transport after events, bus services taper off around 9–10pm, so if returning to Wellington late, consider booking an Uber or taxi in advance.
What Makes This Venue Special
Boulcott’s Farm is cherished for blending deep history with quality facilities. It was born of two very old clubs merging in 2010 – the Hutt Golf Club (est. 1892, with storied members and many past champions) and Boulcott Golf Club (est. 1938) (www.golfwellington.co.nz ) (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ). The word “Heritage” wasn’t just marketing: it honours that lineage. Club historians proudly note that Hutt first introduced flexible “pay-as-you-play” memberships in NZ (back in 2004) (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ), and that it pushed for modern governance by joining men’s and women’s committees. A war memorial across the road even recalls the 1846 Battle of Boulcott’s Farm that gave the area its name (and the club’s patriotic logo). Together, these clubs acted as “foundation stones” of the Hutt Valley community and sport (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ).
Visually, the course’s rolling fairways and perfectly manicured greens are a highlight (often ranked among Wellington’s best) (www.golfwellington.co.nz ). The clubhouse architecture – opened in 2015 to replace the old timber building – is modern and bright. Wall-sized windows and a high-pitched roof flood light into the lounge, setting it apart from older dimly-lit clubhouses. The layout takes advantage of sweeping views: for example, the large verandah overlooks the long par-5 18th hole, making presentations and award ceremonies memorable. In summer, sheep-free lush fairways under bright skies give it a market-garden feel. Members often say the club atmosphere itself is its charm – it’s known for being friendly, inclusive (multiple skill levels and ages, strong junior and women’s programs) and community-minded. Many local legends (golfers, entrepreneurs and officials) have celebrated milestone events here.
Finally, Boulcott’s Farm has hosted notable events: it was the Hutt Valley site of the NZ Amateur Championship in 1986 and multiple national junior finals (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ). Its long fairways have tested many Kiwi champions (including hosting national team events like the Freyberg Rosebowl several times in the 1980s (www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz )). These historic moments mean players walking the course today share the same stage as past greats. That heritage – combined with top practice facilities (covered range, teaching studio) and the social Cafe/Bar – make Boulcott’s Farm special to both golf enthusiasts and community visitors alike.
Visitor Tips and Information
Dress and Gear: Always dress neatly. Golfers need a collared shirt and proper golf shorts/trousers (no denim or tank tops), and we recommend golf shoes (soft spikes or trainers). Thongs or non-golf shoes are usually not allowed on the course. For events in the clubhouse, smart casual or business-casual attire is appropriate. Bring your own clubs if possible, but rental sets are available for casual players (reserve these ahead). Pack sunscreen, a hat and layers – Lower Hutt can get windy and weather changes quickly. Rain check: if heavy rain is forecast, ring the pro shop first; the course is well-draining but can close during floods.
Arrival and Entry: If you’re playing golf, arrive at least 15 minutes before your tee time to check in at the pro desk and warm up. For a booked function, aim 15–30 minutes early so staff can seat you comfortably. Security is relaxed – no special ID needed to enter – but staff will confirm your name or event. There is no formal cloakroom: just hang coats on nearby racks or keep them at your table. Phone use is fine, but out of courtesy keep ringtones low during play or meetings.
Course Etiquette: Follow standard golf etiquette. Repair divots and pitch marks, keep pace with the group ahead, and let faster players through. Stand quietly at least 20 yards from someone’s line of play. Footgolf is offered on the short course in the evening (soccer ball golfing, which costs $10). Feel free to try it after 5pm. Avoid bringing pets to the course or clubhouse (service dogs excepted). Children are welcome but must stay safe – the carts and equipment can be dangerous. Do not wander behind golfers.
Amenities: The club provides clean restrooms (including for disabled guests) and has wifi and cell coverage. There’s a set of lockers in the changing rooms if needed (bring a padlock). If dining, the cafe usually takes cards; carrying a bit of cash for small snack items or tipping is handy. The cafe and bar open around 9am on weekdays, 10am at weekends; dinner service usually starts after 5pm (check the signage or ask an attendant). Keep your golf shoes or muddy gear off the café furniture – there’s a bench outside to swap shoes if needed. Taxis may not wait long at the entrance, so if heading back after dark, consider booking one through the office (they can call a local driver for you).
Planning Ahead: Double-check the club’s event calendar or tournament schedule before visiting – busy days (like big tournaments) may make the place very active. If you plan to join an event or mix golf with a celebration, bring a change of clothes. And above all, enjoy the experience – whether it’s a sunny 18 holes or a dinner with panoramic views, let the club’s heritage and friendly vibes add to the occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to play and how do I book a tee time?
Green fees are roughly NZ$60 for an 18-hole round midweek and about $70 on weekends (rates may change by season). Juniors and twilight/9-hole rounds are cheaper. You can book tee times online through Golf New Zealand (Golf NZ) or by calling the club’s pro shop (04-567-4722 ext 1) (
www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ). Walking in without a booking is possible on quiet weekdays, but it’s best to reserve ahead on busy days.
Do I need to be a member to play, or can casual golfers come?
Casual golfers are welcome – you do not need to be a member. Simply pay the green fee as a visitor. Members do get discounted fees and easier bookings, but anyone (Kiwi or international) can come out for a round by booking a time. Just follow dress code and etiquette as explained by staff.
Are there junior or family discounts available?
Yes. Golfers under 19 pay a reduced junior rate (about half the adult fee). Children (even younger) often play on the 6-hole Summerset course for just $10. Also, if you play “with a member,” you usually get a further discount (for example adult+member might be ~$10 cheaper). Special deals (like twilight hours) may also apply. Ask the pro shop for current rates if you’re bringing children or youth.
Where is the club located and is parking available?
The address is 33 Military Road, Boulcott, Lower Hutt (postal code 5010). It’s on the south end of Lower Hutt city near Queensgate Mall. There is free on-site parking right next to the clubhouse. Ample parking spaces are provided for golfers and guests. On busy event days, the lot may fill up, but overflow parking is arranged on adjacent grass areas. Street parking nearby is very limited, so use the club car park.
How can I get there by public transport or taxi?
Several Metlink buses run along Lower Hutt’s High Street (routes like 120 or 121) and stop close by – get off at High St / Boulcott St and walk a few minutes up Military Road. The closest train stations are Waterloo or Melling (on the Hutt Valley line); from either station, you’ll need a short taxi or bus ride. Taxis and ride-shares are easy from Wellington or Lower Hutt – simply request drop-off at the clubhouse entrance. There’s no specific taxi stand, but all vehicles can enter the car park to drop off or pick up.
Where can I stand or sit to best watch people play golf?
The venue has no grandstand; spectators typically watch from the clubhouse patio or along the ropes on the course. A favourite spot is the terrace and grassy berm behind the 18th green (outside the café) – you can enjoy a drink while seeing players finish each hole. Otherwise, for any particular hole, stand well behind or to the side of the tee box or green (being careful of stray balls). Always stay out of players’ lines. There are benches and tables on the patio for casual seating in fair weather.
What is the layout of the clubhouse and rooms?
On entry you’ll find the pro shop and reception. Beyond that is the Farm Café & Bar with open seating and couches. Three separate function/meeting rooms branch off from there. The main lounge (with fireplace) is large and can be combined with the bar area for big events. The two smaller rooms each fit a few dozen guests at tables. All spaces have movable furniture (banquet tables or chairs) rather than fixed seats. An outdoor patio/deck lines one side of the lounge, providing covered alfresco seating over part of the 18th hole.
Is there a built-in stage or performance area?
No, Boulcott’s Farm has no formal stage or theatre. The function rooms are multipurpose – they have projector screens and a PA system for presentations (
www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ), but no dedicated concert lighting or raised stages. For resident events like weddings, a small platform can be assembled if needed, but typically events hold speeches from the floor. The venue is designed for dining and meetings, not performing arts.
What is the dress code for golfers and visitors?
Golfers must wear smart attire: collared shirts and tailored pants or shorts, and proper golf shoes or spikeless trainers. Jeans, T-shirts, singlets and athletic shorts are not permitted on the course. Hats are fine. In the clubhouse or at functions, smart casual or business attire is appropriate (think polos or button-ups for men and modest casuals for women). Always avoid overly casual beachwear. If you’re unsure, err on the side of neatness – the staff will remind players of the rules before a round.
Are children allowed on the course or at events?
Yes. The club is family-friendly. Children can play on the 6-hole Summerset short course (which is much easier) and may accompany adults on the full course if supervised. Many families come to junior golfing days or family tournaments. Children are also welcome at weddings and social events. Note that minors should not roam the course unattended for safety, and alcohol laws apply (kids can be in the clubhouse, but cannot be served alcohol). The club does have junior coaching programmes as well.
Is smoking or vaping allowed at the club?
No smoking or vaping is allowed inside the clubhouse or function rooms. This includes e-cigarettes. There are designated smoking areas outside – typically near the entrance or patio where ashtrays are provided. If you must smoke, ask a staff member to point out the current outdoor smoking zone. On the golf course, you are free to smoke between shots as long as you’re well off the tees and not disturbing other golfers.
Can we bring outside food or alcohol?
Generally, no outside catering or alcohol is allowed inside. For private events, the club provides catering (you can’t bring your own caterer or buffet). If you want to order a cake or dessert, check with the function manager first. You may bring snacks or personal beverages for consumption during a round (water bottles, fruit, etc.). Outside alcohol (like BYO wine) is strictly prohibited; the bar sells all drinks. This helps the club manage licencing and service.
What on-site dining options are available?
The Farm Café & Bar serves meals most days. Typical menu items include breakfast (coffee, pastries), lunchtime salads, sandwiches and burgers, and pub staples in the evening (fish & chips, steak, pasta). There’s also an extensive bar menu with local craft beers, NZ wines, spirits and coffee. Prices are moderate – you can expect main meals in the $15–$25 range. The café often has a cabinet of grab-and-go items, and friendly staff can whip up simple lunches (soups, rolls) if you’re hungry outside peak hours.
Does the club have a pro shop or equipment rental?
Yes. A full pro shop is located in the clubhouse, carrying a wide selection of clubs, balls, bags and apparel. They stock major brands (Titleist, Callaway, Odyssey, etc.) (
www.boulcottsfarmhgc.co.nz ). You can buy any forgotten golfing gear there. The shop also rents clubs if you need a set for your round – making it easy for casual visitors to play without bringing gear. Additionally, 12 electric golf carts are available for hire (book these in advance as they can go quickly on busy days).
Are coaching or event services available?
Yes. The club has golf professionals offering lessons and clinics – inquire at the Pro Shop for rates and schedules. Practice facilities include a covered driving range and dedicated short-game area. For events, the venue provides full AV support (projectors, microphones, etc.) and catering services. The staff can set up banquet-style lunches or evening sit-down meals as needed. If you need extras (like flowers or specialised lighting), you typically arrange these with an outside supplier but the club will accommodate the set-up.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The clubhouse is largely on one level with ramped or gently sloping entries, so wheelchairs can enter the main lounge and function rooms. Accessible parking spaces are likely in the main lot. There is at least one wheelchair-friendly restroom. If you require special assistance (like a golf cart modified for a mobility scooter), call the club ahead – staff have accommodated disabilities and may offer help. The outdoor paths around the clubhouse and towards the 1st tee are paved. (Learn more by asking the club directly before your visit.)
How many holes make up the course, and what is the par?
Boulcott’s Farm has an 18-hole main course, which plays as par 71 from the back tees (and shorter from forward tees). The total length is about 5933 metres from the championship tees (
www.golfwellington.co.nz ). In addition, there’s a separate 6-hole short course (Summerset Six) primarily par 3s (around par 21 total) used for practice, quick rounds or footgolf. Scorecards for all holes are available at the pro shop or practice range kiosk.
What does the “Heritage” in the club’s name mean?
“Heritage” reflects the club’s history of bringing together two legacy golf clubs. In 2010, the venerable Hutt Golf Club and Boulcott’s Farm Golf Club merged into a unified club. Rather than lose either identity, they became Boulcott’s Farm Heritage Golf Club to honour both. It emphasizes the combined traditions. This club is actually New Zealand’s first to carry “Heritage” in its name for that reason. It signifies that older roots from two locations still stand as one community.
Why is it called “Boulcott’s Farm” – what’s the origin?
The name comes from early settler Richard Boulcott, who owned farmland here in the 1840s. This area of the Hutt Valley was known as Boulcott’s Farm. It’s also the site of a skirmish during the NZ Land Wars (the Battle of Boulcott’s Farm in 1846). A monument nearby commemorates the soldiers and Māori who fought there. The golf club inherited the historic name, linking it to the local heritage. So it’s literally on what used to be Boulcott’s Farm — a nod to the valley’s history.
What is the Summerset Six and can I play footgolf there?
The Summerset Six is the club’s dedicated 6-hole short course, intended for quick practice or beginners. Each hole is a short par 3 (total par about 21). In addition to regular golf play, it’s used for footgolf: after hours you can kick a soccer ball into the same holes for just $10 per player (ball hire is $10). The par-3 nature makes footgolf work well. So if you’re looking for a fun family round or to try something new, ask pro shop for footgolf when you arrive. The short course is a great warm-up before hitting the main 18 holes.
