Source: Radio New Zealand
Australia’s Ryan Peake, 2025 New Zealand Open champion. www.photosport.nz
Australian golfer Ryan Peake will return to Queenstown to defend his New Zealand Open Crown in February.
Peake described his win at Millbrook earlier this year as “life-changing”.
The former West Australian bikie gang member said returning as defending champion was “pretty cool”.
“Never got to do it before in such a significant event,” Peake said. “I’m really looking forward to this opportunity.”
The win earned Peake full status on the Asian Tour, while it also helped him secure a World Tour card through his standing on the 2024/25 Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia Order of Merit.
“I was straight on the road, learning to travel the world again. It’s been challenging but great character building,” he said.
“Now I’m turning my focus towards my DP World Tour card. It’s been quite crazy, but I’m just looking forward to getting back to New Zealand.”
Peake said he remains grounded about his past and how it shapes him.
“Other people look at my story differently. For me, it’s just my life – something I live and deal with every day.
“It doesn’t feel as extraordinary to me as it might to others,” he said.
Australia’s Ryan Peake wins the 104th NZ Open golf tournament at Millbrook Resort, Arrowtown, 2025. Steve McArthur / www.photosport.nz
His victory at the New Zealand Open not only launched his international season – it also made him the first New Zealand Open champion to win a start at The Open Championship.
“I didn’t perform my best at Portrush this year, but it’s definitely something I want more of.”
The 32-year-old said he still receives support following his 2025 win.
“New Zealanders come up to me on the street now – they recognise me and say, ‘You won the New Zealand Open’. They’ve made me feel like I’m part of the country. It’s been pretty cool.”
The New Zealand Open returns to Millbrook Resort in Queenstown from 26 February to 1 March 2026.
A number of New Zealand’s top golfers have confirmed their entry including Ben Campbell, Steven Alker, Daniell Hillier and Kazuma Kobori.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
