Established in 1911, the club is now at Clareville, set against the foothills of the
stunning Tararua ranges. Back in 1911, Saturday morning was for working but at noon it was time
to pick up the canvas golf bag containing probably five hickory-shaft clubs, and play at Howard
Booth’s farm.
In 1913 the club was granted permission to use the Carterton Racecourse for five pounds per
annum. It cost one shilling for nine-holes.
In 1930, membership was limited to 100 because it was too busy on weekends. Amazingly there were
58 women and 42 men.
Following the war a new course was sought and property was
purchased at Chester Road, the club’s current location. The 13-hole course was officially opened
on 31 May 1947. Fairway mowing was performed by sheep until 1950, when a tractor and mower was
purchased. Eighteen holes came into play in 1952 and in 1953 a full-time greenkeeper was
employed.
On 14 April 1964, a decision was made to build a clubhouse and the new clubhouse opened almost a
year later.
Since 1979 the course has undergone many changes with holes being lengthened and renumbered.