Queenstown, New Zealand: The 101st edition of the New Zealand Open will feature, for the first time in its history, a NZ$1 million hole-in-one prize for any professional or amateur who can master the par-three seventh hole at The Hills.

Tournament organisers revealed that Manuka Doctor is presenting a NZ$1 million hole-in-one challenge, to deliver what could be a very lucky shot for those competing to have their name etched in glory next week.

Tournament Chairman John Hart said that having a premium Kiwi brand like Manuka Doctor behind it illustrates the level the tournament has risen to.

“The Million Dollar hole-in-one is a drawcard for everyone in the field, no matter their status in the world of golf. One perfect shot is all it will take!” said Hart.

“Manuka Doctor, a great supporter of the tournament, has been instrumental in bringing Michael Campbell back over the last two years. To now add this opportunity for all of our players, amateur and professional, adds significant value to the New Zealand Open.”

In providing the prize, Manuka Doctor’s Nicola Macfarlane is delighted to create this opportunity for the players, adding extra motivation to attempt the ‘nearly impossible’ at the Open.

“We love the New Zealand Open, and seeing the players light up as they attempt to find the perfect sweet shot in the pursuit for the New Zealand Open title.

“The great thing about the Million Dollar prize is not only could any golfer have a life-changing shot, a quarter of the prize (NZ$250,000) will be donated to the Starship Children’s Hospital. So, it’s a win-win scenario in our eyes,” said Macfarlane.

The hole-in-one opportunity is open to all registered players, on the seventh hole at The Hills next week, in both the New Zealand Open and the New Zealand Pro-Am tournaments. The prize will be split NZ$750,000 to the player, and NZ$250,000 to Auckland’s Starship Children’s Hospital.

Sir Michael Hill said: “We’ve had very few holes in one at the seventh at The Hills, but many close calls.  Someone making the perfect shot to win NZ$1 million against that iconic backdrop of mountains and sculpture would not only be a magic moment in their life, it would be a magnificent way to mark 10 years of New Zealand Opens at The Hills.”

The New Zealand Open is co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour, a Full Business Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.