The multi-year partnership will see Lexus become an integral part of the New Zealand Open, creating opportunities to connect with tournament partners, guests, players and fans through premium experiences and activations.
As the Mobility Partner of the New Zealand Open, Lexus will play an important role in helping move players, guests, partners and VIPs throughout the Wakatipu Basin, delivering a seamless and premium experience. Lexus will also showcase their brand and vehicles through a range of premium experiences and activations across the event.
The partnership further strengthens the tournament’s growing portfolio of premium brands, while providing Lexus with a unique platform to align with one of New Zealand’s most prestigious sporting events, engaging an audience that shares an appreciation for performance, precision and quality experiences.
New Zealand Open Tournament Chairman John Hart says the partnership was a natural fit between two brands.
“We are delighted to welcome Lexus into the New Zealand Open family. This is more than simply putting a vehicle brand alongside a golf tournament; it is about building something together that adds genuine value to the tournament as we continue to evolve.
“We see enormous potential in this partnership and are excited about what we can build with Lexus in the years ahead. We look forward to hosting Lexus and their customers and showcasing the brand to golf fans around the world.”
Lexus New Zealand CEO Tatsuya Ishikawa says the partnership reflects Lexus New Zealand’s commitment to supporting New Zealand sport and creating memorable experiences for its customers.
“The New Zealand Open gives us the opportunity to bring our approach to hospitality to life. In Japan, we call this omotenashi, anticipating what a guest might need and taking care of the details, so they feel looked after from the moment they arrive. That philosophy is an important part of Lexus, and we want people to experience it throughout the tournament.
“Golf in New Zealand is also at a very special moment. Ryan Fox winning The British Open has made the whole country proud, and we want to support that momentum.”
Lexus New Zealand Vice President and Chief Strategic Officer Andrew Davis says the tournament and its location make it a natural fit for the brand.
“There’s attention to detail in golf; from the way a course is prepared to the way a player approaches every shot, to the craftmanship of the club. That’s the same level of care our Takumi craftspeople put into every Lexus we build.
“Queenstown makes it an even better fit. It’s a part of the country our customers love to visit, and the tournament draws people from across New Zealand and overseas. It’s a great setting to introduce more people to Lexus and give New Zealanders an opportunity to see our latest Lexus models up close.
“We’re planning something really special for the 18th hole and can’t wait to reveal more. It will be a great moment for the tournament, players and fans spectating.”
The partnership comes at an exciting time for both organisations, with the New Zealand Open continuing to build its position as a top quality event and Lexus continuing to evolve its luxury vehicle offering in New Zealand.
The 106th New Zealand Open presented by Millbrook Resort will be played at Millbrook Resort, Queenstown, from 25–28 February 2027.
