The First Tee

Although puregolf2010 has its genesis in a shared desire to challenge ourselves, on reflection (and with some sage advice from a good friend) Michael and I realised we had an opportunity - almost a responsibility - to use the exposure we generate to support a good cause.  So we set about the hunt for an organisation whose ethos we could identify with.  For us to spend a year of our lives pursuing a cause it had to be one with which we had some kind of nexus.  And when our path crossed with The First Tee New Zealand that nexus revealed itself.  

Having grown up playing golf from an early age, the etiquette of the game has been firmly engrained in us.  There are many lessons to be learned in golf, and The First Tee does an amazing job in teaching kids those lessons through its programs.  Many of the kids would not otherwise have access to such a nurturing (and horizon broadening) forum. 

All money raised through puregolf2010 will go to The First Tee New Zealand, including all proceeds from our launch event.  We have not set a fundraising target, but have hope to be able to contribute meaningfully to their medium term expansion plans, beyond Auckland to other New Zealand centres. 

Further information about The First Tee New Zealand (together with a few action shots) is set out below.  But we strongly encourage you to visit their website yourself to learn more about the inspiring work these good people do.  For details about how to make a direct donation please click here.

The First Tee of New Zealand is dedicated to impacting the lives of young New Zealanders by providing learning facilities and educational programmes that promote character development and life-enhancing values through the game of golf. 

The First Tee of New Zealand provides a place where youngsters can not only learn to play golf, but also learn invaluable life skills.  Children can benefit from this programme through learning values and life skills that help them to become better citizens.  The lifeskills experience, delivered through the game of golf by experienced professionals, can offer children resistance skills and a set of core values to call their own. 

Underpinning The First Tee's programme are 9 core values that underpin the game of golf:  

Honesty 

Integrity

Sportsmanship

Respect

Confidence

Responsibility

Perseverance

Courtesy

Judgment

 

The First Tee of New Zealand is operated by The Kiwi Kids Life Skills Trust, an IRD approved Charitable Trust.  The Board of Directors are made up of key community and golf leaders and are all volunteers.  The Board provides governance and manages fundraising and promotional activities.  

 

The organisation is reliant on donations from individuals and companies to deliver their programme to New Zealand children.   Please donate directly to The First Tee here.