Next year's New Zealand golf Open will go ahead.
NZ golfer Ryan Fox. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Tournament organisers are confident a strong international field will play the 102nd edition of the event at Millbrook Resort near Queenstown between March 31 and April 3.
However, tournament chairman, John Hart, said the top players would only come and self isolate upon entry to New Zealand if they have access to practice facilities.
"We have had initial conversations with a number of international based players who have indicated that they would be willing to isolate ahead of the tournament if practice facilities were available. We are now working through options with the Government on how this will work and are confident in finding a positive outcome for all.
"In such difficult times caused by the pandemic, it is extremely gratifying that the sponsors and partners of the tournament have given us their full support in hosting the New Zealand Open next year. Some of our International partners notwithstanding they will be unable to attend the event personally, have maintained their financial commitment to the Tournament."
Players attending the New Zealand Open won't only fight for that title, with professional players also chasing a potential spot at the British Open played at St Andrews.
For the first time, the New Zealand Open has been included in the British Open qualifying series, with the top three finishers gaining a coveted place in the field for next year's major.
"To have three guaranteed spots for the top finishers at the New Zealand Open at The Open is exceptional news, and we believe this will draw more and more international players to Queenstown in March," said Hart.