Society Officers

The New Zealand Society of Hickory Golf is governed and supported by officers who contribute their time, knowledge and enthusiasm to the development of hickory golf throughout New Zealand.

Patron — Sir Bob Charles

Sir Bob Charles is Patron of the New Zealand Society of Hickory Golf.

As the 1963 Open Champion and one of New Zealand’s most distinguished sportspeople, Sir Bob provides an unparalleled connection to the history and traditions of the game.

His support was instrumental in establishing the New Zealand Hickory Open, and he continues to provide leadership, credibility and inspiration to the Society.

Sir Bob’s active participation reflects his enduring belief that golf’s history should not simply be displayed or remembered. It should continue to be played, experienced and shared.

Chair — Peter van Eekelen

Peter van Eekelen serves as Chair of the New Zealand Society of Hickory Golf.

He is responsible for the Society’s strategic direction, national development, international relationships, event growth and wider promotion of hickory golf.

Peter plays a central role in the organisation and international development of the New Zealand Hickory Open and represents New Zealand within the wider Asia-Pacific and international hickory communities.

His work includes:

developing relationships with overseas hickory organisations;
promoting the New Zealand Hickory Open internationally;
assisting New Zealand players travelling offshore;
supporting regional playing opportunities;
strengthening international team competitions; and
promoting New Zealand as a hickory golf destination.

Secretary — Rick Vincent

Rick Vincent serves as Secretary of the Society.

He provides administrative and organisational support and assists with event planning, player communications, competition formats and operational delivery.

As Director of Golf at Christchurch Golf Club, Rick provides an important operational connection between event planning and on-course delivery.

His practical understanding of golf operations, tournament organisation and player development provides significant support to both the Society and the New Zealand Hickory Open.

Treasurer — Ben Frampton

Ben Frampton serves as Treasurer of the Society.

He is responsible for overseeing the Society’s:

financial administration;
reporting;
budgeting;
financial governance; and
ongoing financial sustainability.

The Treasurer’s role supports the Society’s ability to administer events, meet its responsibilities and invest appropriately in future playing opportunities.

Regional Representatives

Regional representatives help connect the Society with players and clubs outside its principal event base.

They provide a local point of contact and support the development of playing groups, events, tours and communication within their regions.

Southland — Paul Evans

Paul Evans represents the Society in Southland.

He assists with connecting players throughout the region and identifying opportunities for local and inter-regional hickory golf.

Southland has a strong golfing culture and a range of courses well suited to traditional equipment, creating opportunities for regional events and future Society tours.

Central North Island — John Rowland

John Rowland represents the Society throughout the Central North Island.

He supports communication with players and clubs across the region and assists with identifying opportunities to establish regular hickory play.

The Central North Island provides an important connection between existing and developing player groups throughout the North Island.

Expanding the Regional Network

The Society intends to appoint further regional representatives as participation grows.

Regional representatives are important because they help:

identify interested players;
connect clubs and informal groups;
coordinate introductory events;
promote regional competitions;
assist with equipment access;
communicate national initiatives; and
develop a genuinely nationwide hickory community.