The developers of the highly ranked Te Arai Links and Tara Iti golf clubs in New Zealand have announced a partnership with the owners of The Hills course near Arrowtown to redevelop the property. The design team of Geoff Ogilvy, Mike Cocking, and Ashley Mead – OCM – will rebuild the course, along with plans for a golf training facility, fitness center, accommodations, real estate, and a clubhouse remodel. The Hills was opened in 2007 by Sir Michael Hill and designed by Darby Partners, featuring sculptures around the course that will be retained during the renovation.
Jim Rohrstaff and Ric Kayne, developers of Tara Iti and Te Arai, will collaborate with Hill and his daughter, Emma Hill, on the project at The Hills. Tara Iti, designed by Tom Doak and opened in 2015, is ranked No. 9 on Golfweek’s Best list of international courses, while Te Arai Links, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, ranks No. 23. The renovation at The Hills will follow a similar model, transforming it into a high-end equity club with limited membership by 2028.
OCM, the design firm behind the project, has recently worked on international projects such as Medinah No. 3 in Illinois and renovations at Sandbelt stalwarts like Kingston Heath and Peninsula Kingswood in Australia. The team has also renovated Shady Oaks in Texas and is currently building the Tepetonka Club in Minnesota with broadcaster Jim Nantz. The redevelopment of The Hills will see a new routing and other enhancements over the 2026 and 2027 winters.
The partnership between OCM and The Hills owners represents a significant investment in the golfing infrastructure in New Zealand, bringing together top designers and developers to enhance the country’s golfing offerings. The introduction of luxury accommodations, amenities, and real estate at The Hills will likely attract golf enthusiasts from around the world, adding to the country’s reputation as a premier golfing destination. The collaboration between experienced industry professionals is expected to result in a world-class facility that will rival other top courses globally.
The redeveloped Hills course will retain its unique features, including the sculptures that dot the landscape, while incorporating new elements to enhance the overall golfing experience. With a focus on exclusivity and quality, the project aims to create a sought-after destination for golfers seeking a premium experience. As construction progresses over the next few years, the partnership between OCM and The Hills owners will continue to garner attention within the golfing community, setting a new standard for golf course development and renovation projects. The transformation of The Hills promises to elevate the stature of New Zealand’s golfing scene and attract discerning players looking for a memorable golfing experience.
