Changing of the guard at Mangawhai Golf Club

PULLING PIN: Finding life a little more laid-back in Mangawhai, Steve Hinton (left) takes over from the outgoing Dave Barlow.

By Rob Pooley

After twelve years in the organisational role at the Mangawhai Golf Club, administrator Dave Barlow has swapped his office chair for a little more ‘me’ time. 

Dave has seen the club through some tremendous growth years and been a big part of it developing into one of the most picturesque and best all weather courses in the country. We wish him well and look forward to seeing him in a more leisurely role out on the links in future.

Dave’s seat has been taken over by Steve Hinton. 

Steve has been a member at North Shore club for over 40 years, three-and-a-half as operations manager. He has also owned property in Mangawhai for some years enjoying the golf course and regular fishing expeditions. Together with his background in accountancy this new role seems tailored to suit, though his 13 handicap might suffer as other duties take precedence.

“Obviously given the population demographic it’s a much more laid-back atmosphere here compared to North Shore,” says Steve, “but we hope to introduce some new innovations and associate membership incentives that will promote the game to those unable to play often and promote Mangawhai generally as a great lifestyle all year round.” 

This from a man who knows it first hand.

With daylight saving now here and Labour Weekend just around the corner Steve will see a much greater traffic flow over the coming weekends with some exciting and entertaining tournaments and novelty events over the summer months.