We are here to help you get started with disc golf. Our beginner-focused FAQs address the most common questions new players have, from selecting the right equipment to understanding the basics of the game.
Getting Started
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Where is the best place to buy disc golf discs?
The most popular option is buying online from dedicated New Zealand-based disc golf retailers. They often offer the largest selection, including local brand RPM Discs (made in New Zealand), and imported brands.
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Online Stores: Check out sites like Small Planet Disc Sports or Vortica Disc Golf for a comprehensive range of discs, bags, and accessories with nationwide shipping.
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Local Sports Shops: Some general sport stores or outdoor retailers may stock a limited range, especially in larger centres.
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Club Days: Ask your local club (if you join one) if they sell discs or if a local pro shop or retailer supports their club days.
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I'm new to disc golf. What are the best discs for beginners?
For beginners, you want slower speeds and understable discs, as these require less power and are more forgiving.
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Putter (Speed 2-3): For short approaches and putting.
- Examples: Innova Aviar, Latitude 64 Pure
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Mid-Range (Speed 4-5): Your main control disc for most drives.
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Examples: Innova Mako3, Discraft Buzzz, Latitude 64 Fuse​
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Fairway Driver (Speed 6-8): The fastest disc you should start with for maximum distance.
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Examples: Innova Leopard, Latitude 64 Diamon
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Pro Tip: Don't throw a driver with a speed over 8 yet! Learn to throw your mid-range disc straight first—it's the quickest way to improve your score.
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Playing in New Zealand (NZ)
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Is there a directory of disc golf courses around New Zealand?​
Yes, there are several great resources for finding disc golf courses across the country:​
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UDisc App/Website: This is the most widely used tool globally and in New Zealand. It uses GPS to show nearby courses, details like par, distance, and user reviews. https://udisc.com/
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NZDG (New Zealand Disc Golf) Website: The NZDG (New Zealand Disc Golf) website has a dedicated Courses section, often listing official baskets and object courses by region.
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Disc Golf Scene: This site also maintains a list and map of courses in New Zealand. https://www.discgolfscene.com/
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How can I find and register for a disc golf tournament in NZ?
Tournaments are common throughout the year, from social club events to official national A-tier Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) sanctioned events.
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Disc Golf Scene: This is the primary platform used for registering and viewing the official calendar for most tournaments in New Zealand, including PDGA-sanctioned events. https://www.discgolfscene.com/tournaments
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NZDG Website: Check the Tournaments page on the NZDG (New Zealand Disc Golf) website for official tour dates and links to registration.
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Local Club Social Media: Follow your nearest disc golf club on Facebook or check their website, as they will advertise local leagues and club-run tournaments.
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How do I find a local disc golf club in my area?
Most regions with established courses have an active club.
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NZDG Website: The New Zealand Disc Golf website often has a directory of recognised Clubs by region.
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Course Locator Maps: When you use a course directory (like UDisc or Disc Golf Scene), check the course information—it usually links to the local club that maintains the course.
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Social Media: Searching your local city "Disc Golf Club" on Facebook is a reliable way to find your local community and see details about their regular league days or social rounds.
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I'm looking for other women and girls who play disc golf in NZ. How can I connect with them?
The women's disc golf community is growing in New Zealand, and there are dedicated avenues for connection.
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Women's Disc Golf NZ Facebook Group: This is the most popular way to connect with female players across the country, organise casual rounds, and discuss women's events. https://www.facebook.com/womensdgnz
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Local Club Leagues: Many local clubs run Leagues or social rounds to encourage participation. Check with your local club.
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Tournament Divisions: Register for tournaments in the female divisions (FPO, FA1, FA3, etc.). This is a great way to meet other women who play competitively.
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Support and Involvement
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How can I support a local disc golf club in my area?
Clubs often rely on volunteer effort and funding for maintenance and course development.
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Become a Member: The easiest way is to pay the club's annual membership fee. This money directly funds course upkeep, new baskets, and club activities.
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Volunteer: Attend scheduled club work parties to help with course maintenance, such as trimming vegetation or improving tee pads.
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Donations/Sponsorship: Check if the club is a registered charity (like the Christchurch Disc Golf Club) or has a Givealittle page. You can also approach local businesses about sponsoring a tournament or a permanent hole sign.
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I want to set up a new disc golf course. Where do I start?
Setting up a course involves planning, local council/landowner approval, and design.
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Contact the Landowner: The first and most critical step is getting permission from the owner of the land, which is usually your Local Council (Parks and Reserves department) or a private entity (like a golf club or school).
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Course Design: Consult with an experienced NZ disc golf course designer (some are based in NZ, like Disc Shop or DiscGolfPark NZ partners) to ensure a safe, interesting, and multi-use friendly layout. The NZDG website has information on the Ideal Setting for a Course.
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Funding: Look for funding through local council grants, community board funds, charitable trusts, and local business sponsorship.
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I want to run a disc golf tournament. What resources are available to help me begin?
The best place to start is with the official body, as they offer resources and guidance:
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NZDG Tournament Director (TD) Info Pack: The New Zealand Disc Golf website has documents specifically designed for Tournament Directors, including checklists, reporting spreadsheets, and tour policy specifications. This is essential for running a formal event.
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Contact Local Clubs: Speak to the TD of a nearby club tournament. They can offer practical advice on securing local council permits, course layout, scoring, and sponsorship.
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PDGA (Professional Disc Golf Association): If you plan on running a sanctioned tournament (a PDGA-rated event), you must follow their official guidelines, which includes event liability insurance covered by the sanctioning fee.