Lexus has signed on as a Premium Partner of the New Zealand Open presented by Millbrook Resort, linking two brands that share a commitment to excellence, performance and memorable experiences.
Under the multi-year agreement, Lexus will be woven into the tournament, connecting with partners, guests, players and fans through premium experiences and activations.
As Mobility Partner, Lexus will transport players, guests, partners and VIPs around the Wakatipu Basin, ensuring a smooth, high-end experience. The brand will also showcase its vehicles through a series of activations across the event.
The deal adds to the tournament’s growing line-up of premium brands and gives Lexus a distinctive platform within one of New Zealand’s most prestigious sporting events, reaching an audience that values performance, precision and quality.
New Zealand Open Tournament Chairman John Hart says the two brands are a natural fit.
“We are delighted to welcome Lexus into the New Zealand Open family. This is more than simply putting a vehicle brand alongside a golf tournament; it is about building something together that adds genuine value to the tournament as we continue to evolve.
“We see enormous potential in this partnership and are excited about what we can build with Lexus in the years ahead. We look forward to hosting Lexus and their customers and showcasing the brand to golf fans around the world.”
For Lexus New Zealand CEO Tatsuya Ishikawa, the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to backing New Zealand sport and creating memorable experiences for customers.
“The New Zealand Open gives us the opportunity to bring our approach to hospitality to life. In Japan, we call this omotenashi, anticipating what a guest might need and taking care of the details, so they feel looked after from the moment they arrive. That philosophy is an important part of Lexus, and we want people to experience it throughout the tournament.
“Golf in New Zealand is also at a very special moment. Ryan Fox winning The British Open has made the whole country proud, and we want to support that momentum.”
Lexus New Zealand Vice President and Chief Strategic Officer Andrew Davis says the event and its setting suit the brand perfectly.
“There’s attention to detail in golf; from the way a course is prepared to the way a player approaches every shot, to the craftmanship of the club. That’s the same level of care our Takumi craftspeople put into every Lexus we build.
“Queenstown makes it an even better fit. It’s a part of the country our customers love to visit, and the tournament draws people from across New Zealand and overseas. It’s a great setting to introduce more people to Lexus and give New Zealanders an opportunity to see our latest Lexus models up close.
“We’re planning something really special for the 18th hole and can’t wait to reveal more. It will be a great moment for the tournament, players and fans spectating.”
The announcement comes as the New Zealand Open continues to establish itself as a top-quality event and Lexus continues to evolve its luxury offering in New Zealand.
The 106th New Zealand Open presented by Millbrook Resort will be played at Millbrook Resort, Queenstown, from 25–28 February 2027.
One note: the original quote contains “craftmanship”, which is likely a typo for “craftsmanship”. I left it as is since you asked to keep the quotes intact, but you may want to confirm the spelling with the Lexus team.
