What Makes an Ideal Disc Golf Course?

The following information may be of interest to Councils and other custodians of public land (e.g. the Department of Conservation).

Every course derives its identity from its environment. Effective course design integrates seamlessly with the topography, preserving the setting's natural charm while establishing a distinct sense of place.

Basic Requirements

A successful disc golf course requires more than just baskets; it requires the right environment. While the standard layout is 9 or 18 holes, the most critical factor is the quality of the land (typically 1 to 3 holes per hectare).

To capture the interest of players, the terrain must offer variety. Completely open spaces are rarely suitable. Instead, the course should weave through mature trees, elevation changes, or water features, requiring players to use strategy and skill. Fortunately, this often means utilizing the natural landscape rather than requiring expensive new landscaping.

Ideally, courses should be:

Community Focused: Located within walking distance of suburbs to encourage high usage and diverse participation.
Accessible: Free to play, easy to walk for all ages and mobility levels, and supported by parking.
Comfortable: Providing shelter from the elements, along with access to basic amenities like toilets and water where feasible.

A Multi-Use Community Space

Unlike closed sports fields, disc golf courses are open spaces shared with the wider community. We believe in co-existing with dog walkers, picnickers, and joggers.

Safety First:

The Rules: Disc golfers adhere to a strict code: never throw if there is a risk of hitting someone. Patience is a core part of the game's culture.
The Layout: Good design prevents conflict. We design holes to play away from busy paths and playgrounds, ensuring clear visibility at all times.

Benefits to the Park: Disc golf often utilizes the "rougher" edges of a park—mature trees and bushes that others might ignore. Regular play in these fringe areas improves overall park security and has been shown to reduce littering and delinquency.

The Role of Destination Courses

Destination courses are typically established in regional parks or reserves where the terrain is optimal for disc golf. While often longer and more demanding than neighborhood layouts, their defining feature is the quality of the setting.

These courses are a vital part of the disc golf ecosystem. They provide:

Progression: A venue for dedicated players to develop their skills and face greater challenges.
Capacity Management: A draw for regular players, helping to relieve congestion and wear-and-tear on smaller suburban courses.