B. V. Wright

B.V Wright was a successful amateur golfer in New Zealand who was also responsible for designing the highly regarded course at Arrowtown Golf Club. In 1933, Wright, who played for the Otago Golf Club, won the New Zealand Amateur Championship which was held at Titirangi that year.

In 1935, twelve people including B. V. Wright formed a new club and acquired 90-acres of land on the Arrowtown-Arrow Junction Road. This was developed the hard way with rakes, wheelbarrows, and hand mowers, and once formed had to be maintained by members.

Designed by Wright and fellow club member Reg Romans Arrowtown's first nine-hole course opened in 1936 and was one of the most picturesque in the country, set among mountains and featuring elevated terrain interspersed with trees.

In 1971 the club acquired and developed 53-acres of leasehold land on the opposite side of the road from the existing nine-hole course. Further advice on a new layout was again given by Wright and the additional land was incorporated into the existing layout to provide 18-holes of an exceptional standard.

Image: Arrowtown Golf Club