Return of NZ PGA Championship to the Kāpiti Coast

The Kāpiti Coast Economic Development Kotahitanga Board (EDKB) and Kāpiti Coast District Council (KCDC) are delighted to be supporting the return of the New Zealand PGA Championship to the Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club on 19 to 22 February 2026.

Recognised as one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most iconic golfing destinations and consistently ranked among the top 100 golf courses in the world, Paraparaumu Beach Golf Course is celebrated as New Zealand’s finest example of true links golf. Its rich history includes hosting the 2002 New Zealand Open, when global superstar Tiger Woods played the course, an event that elevated Kāpiti’s profile internationally and cemented the venue’s reputation among the world’s golfing elite.

As part of the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia, the 2026 NZ PGA Championship will be bringing some of the best golfers from across NZ and Australia to the Kāpiti Coast, with the event to be broadcasted to viewers in NZ, Australia and Japan; providing an international viewing audience with the chance to follow every round. As well as showcasing the stunning Paraparaumu Beach course, the extensive media coverage is an excellent opportunity to showcase the Kāpiti Coast to a domestic and international viewing audience.

The return of the PGA Championship to Paraparaumu is nothing short of a game-changer for Kāpiti, a moment that puts our district firmly in the spotlight and showcases everything we have to offer.
Neil Mckay, Chair, Kāpiti Coast Economic Development Kotahitanga Board (EDKB)

A Major Economic Boost for the Kāpiti Coast

Hosting one of Australasia’s premier golfing events is a significant economic win for the district, as well as the extensive media coverage, the event will attract leading NZ and International players, support staff, media and domestic and international visitors to Kāpiti.

The pre-tournament practice rounds, pro-am event and the tournament itself result in a large group of visitors being hosted in the district for nearly a week in total, all of these visitors will be looking for things to see, eat and do while visiting.

"The return of the PGA Championship to Paraparaumu is nothing short of a game-changer for Kāpiti, a moment that puts our district firmly in the spotlight and showcases everything we have to offer. This is a world-class event that draws domestic and international golf fans, but more importantly, it opens the door for visitors to discover the incredible experiences, landscapes, and hospitality that make Kāpiti unforgettable.

Opportunities of this scale can supercharge our local economy, driving new business, boosting tourism, and creating momentum that will be felt long after the final putt drops. The EDKB is immensely proud to have helped secure this milestone event for our district, and we cannot wait to see the impact it brings to our community and our business sector." - Neil Mckay, Chair, EDKB

Mayor Janet Holborow Kāpiti Coast District Mayor says “the return of the New Zealand PGA Championship is a significant coup for Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, and a fantastic opportunity for the district to showcase Kāpiti as a vibrant, welcoming, and standout visitor destination for both domestic and international tourists.  

Council works hard to support recreation, grow local employment, and promote our district as a great place to visit, live, and do business,” says Mayor Holborow. “Hosting a tournament of this calibre reinforces those efforts and highlights the strength of our community and local operators. 

As one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most iconic golfing destinations — and consistently ranked among the top 100 courses in the world — Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club is a strong local employer and a valued contributor to our economy.

Events like this help amplify that impact. The media coverage and national attention the tournament brings will deliver ongoing benefits for Kāpiti, and it’s important we work together to make the most of this opportunity for our district.”