$2 million up for grabs

he New Zealand Open has confirmed that a $2 million prize pool will be up for grabs when the tournament tees off in Queenstown next month.

"This reflects not only our commitment to being a financially attractive tournament across our tour partners, the PGA Tour of Australasia, the Asian Tour, the Japan Golf Tour and the Korean Tour but also our dedication to the long-term future of the event," Tournament Chairman John Hart says.

And every player who misses the 36-hole cut at the 2025 event will walk away with at least $1,000 to help support their travel and other costs associated with attending the tournament.

“We recognise the effort players make in committing and travelling to Queenstown and the player’s feedback highlighted that our relatively unique approach to supporting them was well received,” Hart adds.

Players who make the 36-hole cut at Millbrook Resort this year for the final two rounds of play will not only compete for the top prizes on offer but will take on the tournament’s new composite course layout.

Tournament Director Michael Glading says this modified layout is aimed to engage on-course spectators who attend the event making more of the course accessible and engaging.

“We have worked with our operations team this year on taking attendees’ experience to the next level. The new composite course will make it more accessible for spectators to take in more of the golf, enjoy public hospitality and entertainment, and watch their favourite players in action,” Glading says.

“The composite course will also have the added benefit of reducing the time it takes to complete the last two rounds of the tournament, meaning those watching on Sky Sport will be able to see more players in action within the broadcast window.”

The 104th New Zealand Open will tee off at Millbrook Resort in Queenstown next month between 27 February and 2 March 2025.

For more information, visit nzopen.com.