Blenheim's Caythorpe Green Unveils Golf, Wine, Hospitality Plan for Q1 2028

New Recreation and Golf Destination for Marlborough

Plans have been revealed for Caythorpe Green, a multi-million-dollar recreation, hospitality, and golf complex set on 10 hectares of farmland in Blenheim, New Zealand. Located on New Renwick Road, the project aims to combine advanced golfing facilities with Marlborough's renowned wine industry.

The Bishell family, fifth-generation farmers and grape-growers whose agricultural operations in the region date back to 1880, are developing the venture on their land.

Simon Bishell, one of the brothers behind the initiative, explained that while a cellar door had been a long-term aspiration, adding golf provides a distinct attraction, helping the family diversify their business beyond viticulture and horticulture into tourism and hospitality.

Advanced Golf Facilities and Innovative Mini-Golf

Caythorpe Green will offer a comprehensive range of golf amenities. These include a 22-bay driving range, comprising 12 fully covered bays equipped with Trackman technology, seating, and food and beverage service, alongside 10 semi-outdoor bays designed for traditional practice. The indoor infrastructure will house three golf simulators and two specialised club-fitting studios.

Additionally, the complex features an 18-hole mini-golf facility built by SHANX Mini Golf. Simon Bishell noted this mini-golf course is designed to mimic a scaled-down regulation golf course, rather than the obstacle-style setups, making it a first of its kind in New Zealand.

Golf retail, a bar, and a bistro will also form part of the offering, with vines planted around the driving range to integrate the golfing setup into the vineyard landscape.

Ownership, Management, and Local Endorsement

The Bishell family will retain full ownership and privately fund the Caythorpe Green development. Heller Golf, a facility management firm known for operating the Sir Bob Charles Golf Centre in Christchurch, will manage the new complex.

Dave Saunders, Heller Golf Chief Executive, remarked that the combination of golf technology and a vineyard setting is designed to cater to a wide audience, from casual players and beginners to families and serious golfers.

Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor has publicly supported the project, highlighting its potential as a significant asset for the region by bringing together recreation, hospitality, and family-friendly experiences in one destination, which could boost regional tourism outside the peak summer season.

Construction Timeline and Regional Implications

Resource consent for Caythorpe Green was lodged in October 2026, with construction scheduled to commence shortly thereafter. The project anticipates a phased opening, targeting full completion by the first quarter of 2028, with provisions for future expansion.

Simon Bishell indicated that while the project had been planned for nearly two years, its timing highlights the importance of multi-industry revenue streams, particularly as Marlborough's wine industry navigates a downturn marked by grape oversupply.

For travelling golfers in the Asia-Pacific region, this development presents a new, modern leisure option in New Zealand, offering diverse golf activities within a renowned wine region.

For developers across Asia, it illustrates a successful model for integrating golf with existing agricultural or tourism assets, creating robust, multi-faceted destinations capable of adapting to market shifts.