The Palmerston North Golf Club has a rich and resilient history, marked by determination and growth despite numerous challenges. Since its inception, the club has relocated its course four times, rebuilding from the ground up on each occasion. Twice, the club faced major setbacks: first in 1947, after World War II, and again in 1965 following a severe flood. Yet, each time, it re-established itself, stronger than before.

The club’s journey began in 1930, when a public meeting was held to discuss creating a second golf club and course in the city. Shortly afterward, a piece of land on the Milson Deviation was offered for use as a golf course. Despite the financial hardships of the 1930s, members came together to develop the course, which officially opened on April 19, 1930.

As membership grew, so did the need for an 18-hole course. In 1935, city officials proposed a solution: developing an 18-hole course on reserve land in the southeastern part of the city, with the Palmerston North Golf Club leasing the completed course. By March 1937, the club had relocated to its new home at Awatapu. However, challenges with maintaining suitable playing conditions led to another relocation in 1933 to Te Matai Road, Whakarongo.

The onset of World War II further disrupted the club’s operations when the Army took over the Awatapu course in 1941. By 1947, the grounds had become overgrown, and extensive redevelopment was required. Following steady progress through the 1950s, the club encountered a new challenge when its land was earmarked for residential development. As a result, the city council offered the club a new site northeast of the city.

The club moved to its current location in early 1964, and the new course was officially opened on May 2, 1964. Just a year later, a major flood submerged the course, depositing layers of river silt across the grounds. This silt provided an unexpected benefit, as it allowed for significant landscaping improvements, creating elevation and contours that enhanced the course’s character.

Over the years, the Palmerston North Golf Club has continued to evolve, with numerous upgrades to both the course and clubhouse. Today, it stands as a testament to resilience and community spirit, boasting a vibrant membership and a course that, while modest in length, challenges players with its mature trees, intricate landscaping, and the need for precision.