Greenacres Golf Club leads the way with irrigation project

Known for its friendly and inclusive atmosphere, Greenacres Golf Club is thriving. The club’s highly regarded course and facilities cater to players of all levels. However, it’s the club’s forward-thinking approach to sustainability and future proofing that has set them apart—most notably with their groundbreaking irrigation project.

For several years the club has been working on a major irrigation project, and it is now operational. The project involves using clean recycled water from the Bell Island wastewater plant for irrigation. This innovative solution is one of the first of its kind in New Zealand and represents a significant milestone in sustainable golf course management. Club manager Brendon Whitley explains, “We’re incredibly proud of the project because it’s so new in this country. Even for the consent we had to look to Australia for their standards because there weren’t any in New Zealand. The team at the Bell Island plant also assisted us greatly and I can’t talk highly enough of them.”

The irrigation system is well engineered. “There are a number of treatment processes and quality control systems in place to ensure that the water is perfectly safe for use,” Brendon says. As global concerns about water conservation and climate change grow, innovative solutions like Greenacres’ irrigation project are becoming increasingly important. “We’re moving to a point where clean water is becoming a valuable resource in this country. Overseas, irrigating with recycled water is common on golf courses and parks, but it’s not done here. It’s great that local councils, iwi, and the community also viewed this as an opportunity.”

Achieving resource consent for the project was a crucial step. The club also invested around $120,000 from its development fund to put the required infrastructure in place, connecting to pipes laid from Bell Island by the Nelson Regional Sewerage Business Unit (NRSBU). The Bell Island facility processes domestic wastewater from Nelson, Wakefield, Mapua, and surrounding areas, as well as industrial wastewater. After undergoing tertiary treatment for recycling purposes, the water is transferred to Greenacres’ tank farm, where it’s further UV treated and diluted with bore water. The recycled water will provide a significant daily increase in the volume of water available for irrigation.

The project has significance not just for Greenacres, but for golf courses, parks, and reserves across the country. The environmental impact of this project cannot be overstated. As Brendon points out, climate change and the increasing likelihood of droughts make sustainability a top priority.

“We enjoy a spectacular location surrounded by the Waimea Inlet, but the course can dry out in summer. Irrigation is essential for course maintenance, and this project ensures we can do that in an environmentally friendly way. It’s clean, free water, and a win-win for us, the councils, and the community.”

Nathan Clarke, the general manager for Nelson Regional Sewerage Business Unit, says the organisation is proud to support the Greenacres Golf Club with this project.

“The NRSBU is actively looking for opportunities to reuse treated wastewater to reduce its discharge to the environment. This Greenacres Golf Club project aligns very well with the business unit's strategic plan for water reuse.”

While the irrigation project is a significant achievement, Greenacres Golf Club’s has a reputation as a top course in New Zealand. The club is rated among New Zealand’s top 40 courses, offering spectacular views over parkland and water.

“We take pride in being one of the most iconic golf courses in the country,” Brendon says. “We’re the only true island golf course, and our team works hard to maintain high standards, ensuring everyone who visits is welcomed and enjoys a memorable experience.”

With a wide range of flexible membership options Greenacres offers something for everyone, from social to the most competitive.

“We have a dedicated team, a great course, and friendly service. It’s why we’re the top golfing destination for visitors to the top of the South Island,” Brendon explains.

In addition to catering to established golfers, Greenacres Golf Club is also committed to encouraging younger players.

“Golf is a fantastic sport for young people. It teaches friendship, discipline, and hand-eye coordination, and it gets kids out into the fresh air,” Brendon says. The club runs several Futures/Junior events, including coaching workshops, twilight sessions, development days, and regular competitions, ensuring that young golfers are well catered to. The club’s ‘She Loves Golf’ program also offers a welcoming environment for women and girls who are new to the game. “These workshops are perfect for those wanting to give golf a try in a fun and friendly setting. They’re designed to introduce the game and build confidence,” says Brendon.

Join the Greenacres Family

For those considering membership, Greenacres Golf Club offers year-round benefits. “Our members get to play a great course as often as they like and be part of a friendly, welcoming community,” Brendon says. For more information on memberships, promotions, and events visit greenacresgolfclub.co.nz. Or drop in for a chat with the friendly team.