The New Zealand Open will once again provide a direct pathway to golf’s oldest major, with a place at The 155th Open at St Andrews on offer at Millbrook Resort in 2027.
The leading player at the New Zealand Open who is not already exempt will secure a place in The Open field, adding another significant incentive when the tournament returns to Queenstown from 25-28 February.
The Open will return to the iconic Old Course at St Andrews from 11-18 July 2027.
It continues the New Zealand Open’s involvement in The Open Qualifying Series and strengthens the national championship’s position as an important pathway for players from New Zealand, the wider Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
Golf New Zealand CEO Jeff Latch said the opportunity to qualify for St Andrews through the country’s national Open was something New Zealand golf could be proud of.
“The stage is set for our New Zealand players, alongside the international players in the field, to earn their place at The Open at St Andrews,” Latch said.
“It gives players another reason to come to Queenstown and compete at their very best.”
The pathway proved its value in 2026 when Australian Lucas Herbert earned his Open place after finishing runner-up to Kiwi Daniel Hillier at Millbrook Resort.
Herbert went on to make the most of that opportunity at Royal Birkdale, firing a record-equalling 62 during the championship before finishing tied sixth.
R&A Regional Managing Director – Asia Pacific Dominic Wall said Herbert’s performance demonstrated the significance of the qualification opportunity.
“The New Zealand Open has proven to be a fantastic addition to that pathway,” Wall said.
“With The Open returning to St Andrews in 2027, the prospect of earning a place in the Championship will provide an incredible incentive for players competing in Queenstown.”
New Zealand Open Chairman John Hart said having a place at the Home of Golf available through the tournament added another dimension to the event.
“To have the opportunity to earn a place at St Andrews – the Home of Golf – adds another extraordinary dimension to our tournament and gives players something truly special to play for,” Hart said.
The announcement comes after a memorable year for New Zealand golf, highlighted by Ryan Fox becoming the second Kiwi to win The Open with his victory at Royal Birkdale.
Attention will now turn to Millbrook Resort in February, where another player will have the opportunity to turn a strong New Zealand Open performance into a ticket to one of golf’s greatest stages.
