A unique miniature golf course, created by enterprising owners to complement their thermal resort during slow seasons, is now for sale in the Western Bay of Plenty.
The nine-hole Smallgusta golf course was developed by Oropi Hot Pools and Café owners Renee and Dave Agnew, who purchased the 8.88-hectare Warner Road property in Oropi shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic began.
Renee, who left her corporate career seeking a change while still young enough to pursue new ventures, explained to OneRoof that she and her husband quickly realised the seasonal nature of their hot pools business. “Kiwis are sort of beach and BBQ country in summer and people don’t go to the hot pools in summer. So that was the reason for the creation of Smallgusta – to reduce the seasonality in the business,” she said.
According to Oneroof.co.nz, among several ideas, Dave’s concept for a miniature golf course on approximately 900 square meters of lawn proved most viable. Drawing from his childhood love of golf, he designed a course that mimics a full-sized golf course at 90% smaller scale. Unlike traditional mini-putt courses, Smallgusta features a par 35 layout without curbs, creating a more authentic golfing experience.
The property also includes a licensed café and function facility that serves both golf and hot pool visitors, as well as the wider community. The Oropi Hot Pools have been a beloved thermal attraction in the Western Bay of Plenty region for nearly three decades.
