The Rangiora golfer, fresh off back-to-back wins on the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia, is a confirmed starter at the New Zealand Open at Millbrook starting on February 29.
Kobori has jumped to second on the Challenger Tour’s Order of Merit with only Australian PGA champion Min Woo Lee ahead of him.
The young Kiwi will be lining up for his third New Zealand Open and is hoping to taste more success.
"My game is feeling great at the moment. And fortunately I have a week’s break before the New Zealand Open.
"I would love to win the New Zealand Open at some point. It would be incredible.
"As a junior, I tried to Monday qualify three times and missed all of them, so even having the opportunity to play at the event is such a privilege."
After his efforts in the past two weeks, Kobori is hoping the outpouring of support continues, and he is looking forward to having a home-field advantage at Millbrook.
"It’s been amazing and I appreciate all the support from everyone back home.
"I love the crowd and the energy, so I am hoping to see a big crowd at Millbrook supporting all the Kiwis who are playing."
New Zealand Open tournament director Michael Glading is pleased to have Kobori back for the 103rd edition of the Open.
"We knew he had the goods after his impressive display at the New Zealand Open last year where he claimed the Bledisloe Cup for being the best amateur in the field," Glading said.
"He is a very talented young player and is in a red-hot vein of form at the moment. He is one to watch, both now, and in the longer term.
"He is yet another young Kiwi aiming to reach the top echelons of the game, and is already showing that he has the talent and mindset that is needed."
