In a snapshot of the Covid-19 pandemic year, New Zealand golf membership in 2020 has grown 9.3%, for the second half of the year, average rounds played has gone up a staggering 26% and casual golfer numbers have risen by more than 16,000 people across the 12 months.
These figures have been released by Golf New Zealand as part of their annual report which has also shown the National organisation’s finances are in good shape with their net surplus improving by 34% to $460,695 while the group’s net assets have risen to just over $3 million.
Although total memberships are up, the majority of that rise was men, lifting by 11% (9,018) where women rose just 3.5% (841) across the corresponding period.
In a statement, Golf New Zealand said the COVID-19 pandemic created a completely different year than originally planned as the organisation managed its way through unprecedented times.
“The pandemic delivered the golf sector a range of new challenges however by uniting and working together, the initial wave has been negotiated and golf has emerged stronger,” the statement said.
“Despite the pandemic, there is much to be proud of when looking back over 2020. Golf continues to enrich the lives of New Zealand by bringing communities together and helping people stay active and healthy. The initial COVID-19 storm has been weathered and golf now has a stronger platform from which to approach the future.
“From a broad perspective, the organisation managed to achieve a great deal in 2020 despite the pandemic and it is well placed to continue delivering results in 2021.”
View the annual report here.
