Tournament Rules & Eligibility

Everything you need to know about eligibility, handicaps, and tournament regulations.

Who Can Enter

The Duke of Edinburgh Cup New Zealand is open to all New Zealand amateur golfers who meet the following criteria:

  • Hold a valid golf handicap from a recognised national golf association

  • Amateur status (as defined by the R&A and USGA)

  • Minimum age of 18 years at the start date of the World Finals (27 September 2026)

  • Note: Players under 18 may compete but are unable to win the main prize or qualify for the World Finals

Handicap Requirements

  • Maximum handicap (Men): 28

  • Maximum handicap (Women): 36

  • Playing handicap: 90% of course handicap (after slope adjustment)

Contestants must have a current, valid handicap to qualify for the World Finals. Non-resident contestants must produce a current, valid proof of handicap from their own national golf association.

Competition Format

  • Format: 18-hole Stableford competition

  • Event type: Singles (individual competition)

  • Rules: R&A Rules of Golf, USGA guidelines, and Royal Wellington Golf Club local rules

Players may sign up to play in pairs if preferred, but scoring is individual.

How Qualifiers Are Determined

The International Golf Charity will determine the number of qualifiers from each event. For New Zealand, the top two players with the best net Stableford scores over 18 holes will qualify for the World Finals.

Tie-Breaking Procedure:

Ties will be decided by count back of the last nine holes, then six holes, then three holes, then two holes, and then the final hole of the course, regardless of the order played. If there is still no result, the front nine holes will decide. If there is still no result, there will be a sudden death play-off using Stableford scoring with full handicap.

Equipment & Devices

GPS/Distance Measuring Devices: Distance-only measuring devices are permitted for the duration of the whole series, including the World Finals

Prohibited features: Devices that measure slope, wind, or provide club recommendations are not permitted

Dress Code

On Course:

  • Collared shirts required

  • Dress shorts or tailored trousers

  • Soft spikes only (no metal/steel spikes)

  • Golf shoes required

Clubhouse:

  • Smart casual attire

  • Collared shirts preferred

  • No golf shoes in main clubhouse areas

Player Conduct

All participants are expected to uphold the spirit of the game, demonstrating integrity, respect for fellow competitors, and good sportsmanship throughout the tournament.

Grounds for disqualification:

  • Abusive language

  • Unsportsmanlike behaviour

  • Course rule violations

  • Any breach of the R&A Rules of Golf

Committee decisions on all matters are final and binding.