Over the years, two caddies from the caddy registration list have gone on to caddy for the eventual tournament winners. Tracy Tatom, from Christchurch, caddied for 2018 winner Daniel Nisbet and in 2015, Wellington golfer Jaimes Woods, caddied for Jordan Zunic. Both described it as an "incredible experience that they will never forget".
With the format of 156 Professional players and their Amateur partners teeing off at The Hills and Millbrook on Thursday, and then swapping courses on Friday, we will require approximately 120 caddies for approximate 40 Professional and 80 Amateur players.
On Friday evening, there will be a Pro-Am cut of the "Top 30" amateurs and the "Top 60" professionals (plus ties), who will go on to play Millbrook on the Saturday and Sunday.
Caddies will need to register on-site at The Hills Driving Range no later than 5 pm on Tuesday in preparation to caddy a practice round on the Wednesday. Most of the caddy jobs will be pre-assigned ahead of arriving at the golf course to reduce your 'waiting around' time.
Caddies are paid a minimum of $100+tip per-round. There is also a $39 cost to register as a caddy, and all caddies receive an NZ Open shirt and cap to wear while caddying and to take home as a souvenir. Caddies should be social or serious golfers with a good level of fitness to carry the golf bag around The Hills and Millbrook golf courses.
Caddies are also invited to the Steve Williams Caddy BBQ on Tuesday evening. This is hosted by the tournament organisers and is an opportunity for the caddies to catch up with each other plus get some caddy tips from Steve Williams and his friends that stop by.
Caddying at the New Zealand Open is extremely unique in the world of golf. Where else can a club or social golfer have a great golfing experience and enjoy a professional tournament from inside the ropes in one of the most stunning settings of our country's leading golf event.
To register as a caddy visit the official NZ Open website: nzopen.co.nz.
