GMANZ Chair Matthew Owen with Chief Executive Des Topp
He’s a familiar name among golf professionals across New Zealand. This week, we caught up with Club Management Association of New Zealand Executive Officer Des Topp. A life member of both the Club Management Association of New Zealand and Auckland Marist Rugby Club, Des has great insight into the world of NZ Golf and sport in general. He’s played Premier cricket, coached Rugby at Premier level and has a pretty good hole in one record, too.
What’s your role in golf, and how long have you been involved?
I currently serve as the Executive Officer of the Club Management Association of New Zealand (formerly Golf Managers Association of New Zealand), a role I’ve held since mid-2016. Before that, I spent six years as General Manager at Pakuranga Golf Club (2010–2016).
In 2017, I helped establish the New Zealand Golf Industry Council—an organisation designed to foster greater coordination and collaboration within the golf sector. I was the founding chair and last year was reappointed to the role.
What inspired you to pursue a career in golf club management, and how did you get started?
I’ve always been a sports fanatic, playing Premier cricket until age 40, coaching Rugby at Premier level in Auckland, and eventually transitioning into club administration. I took up golf in the 1990s, and my passion for the game led me to my first golf management role as General Manager of Pakuranga Golf Club.
I’m honoured to be a Life Member of both Auckland Marist Rugby Club and the Club Management Association of New Zealand—a testament to my long-standing commitment to sports and club leadership.
What are the biggest challenges facing golf clubs across New Zealand?
The industry faces significant hurdles, including:
• An ageing player population
• A decline in participation in traditional club competitions
• A shortage of volunteers willing to support club operations
Addressing these challenges will be critical to ensuring golf clubs remain vibrant and sustainable.
What trends or changes do you see shaping the future of the golf industry?
The way people engage with golf is evolving, with notable shifts including:
• A rise in non-competitive play
• The growing popularity of virtual golf and driving ranges
• The emergence of alternative formats beyond the traditional 18-hole and 9-hole games
Adapting to these trends will be essential for clubs looking to attract and retain new generations of golfers.
If you weren’t working in the golf industry, what would you be doing?
I’d likely be retired, tending to my garden, and—without a doubt—watching sports. Who could ever forget the 2025 Masters? And just to cover my bases, I better include housework—in case my wife happens to read this!
If you could play a round of golf with three people, dead or alive, who would they be and why?
Golf is all about lifelong friendships, so my dream round would be with the three partners who welcomed me into their foursome when I first joined Remuera Golf Club.
Though I’m no longer able to join them on the course, our bond remains strong—we still meet weekly for coffee at Winstone’s Café, reliving the best moments from our days on the fairways.
What’s your handicap?
I’ve always considered myself a social golfer, with my lowest recorded handicap being 12.7. I remain a member of Remuera Golf Club, but due to a long-term illness, I’ve had to step away from playing. Currently, I’m on sick leave.
Ever had a hole in one?
Yes—three times!
Hole 8 at the old Grange course in Auckland
Hole 3 at Remuera Golf Club
Hole 13 at Millbrook Resort
