Wakatipu golf clubs enjoy having the New Zealand Michael Hill Golf Open in the district and get a boost from the many spectators who take time to play.
Arrowtown Golf Club manager John Stephens said the open was a huge money-spinner for the club.
"It brings a lot of people into town and increases our green fees greatly. People can't play at the Hills and we're right next door, so it's ideal," he said.
He believed the event increased the club's takings by about $10,000 last year.
January was usually a busy month for the club.
"When the open was in November it was fantastic because that's traditionally a quiet month and March last year was OK. January is not ideal because we're usually pretty busy anyway," he said.
Mornings during the week of the open were fully booked well before Christmas, he said.
Queenstown Golf Club chief executive Michael Shattock said the open was of "great benefit" to golf in the region.
Bookings had risen "significantly" during the event.
"We are seeing a significant increase in green fees. It makes a massive difference," he said.
He had noticed a lot of repeat visitors and tour groups bookings.
Jacks Point golf operations manager John Griffin said the open had an "amazing" effect on business.
"We get people coming a week early or staying a week later than the open to play at our course. It's the biggest week in the year for green-fee players," he said.
Courses in Cromwell, Wanaka and Alexandra were also boosted from the golf tourists, he said.
"It totally raises the profile with international media coverage and people coming from all over spreading the word about how good the region is for golfing," he said.
Millbrook director of golf Brian Spicer said the knock-on effect of the open was "very good" for business.
Bookings were "chocker" before Christmas with many groups booking well in advance, he said.
The open will be held at The Hills from January 28 to 31.
