Work is already underway for next year’s ISPS
HANDA New Zealand Open in Queenstown – with Caddy Master Andrew Whiley issuing
a ‘caddy call’.

Over 140 caddies are needed for the 2017 ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open at Millbrook
Resort and The Hills golf courses from 9-12 March 2017.

It’s the perfect opportunity for those keen to ‘go
inside the ropes’ during the four-day tournament for an insiders’ view of the
event, caddying for ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia professionals, the odd
celebrity or amateur players.

Unlike volunteers, caddies are paid for their work by
their player, which can mean anything from around $75 a day up to a share of
winnings – and depending on how well the caddy’s performed and the negotiations
between the player and caddy. 

For a lucky few caddies they might carry bag right
through to the excitement of the final round, or achieve the ultimate goal of
carrying the winner’s bag.

That was the case for volunteer caddy Jaimes Wood from
the Royal Wellington Golf Club at the 2015 New Zealand Open when he had the
experience of doing just that for eventual champion Jordan Zunic.

Wood describes it as an "incredible experience I’ll
never forget".

Queenstown-based golfer Alan Dunn, most recently a
member of Arrowtown Golf Club, has caddied the last three years for a
professional.

A 12-handicapper, he thoroughly recommends the job for
anyone with an 18-handicap down.

"It’s an awesome experience as long as you’re fit, and
you learn so much because you see them in action as it happens, up close and
personal," said Dunn.

Chosen caddies need to register on site at Millbrook
Resort no later than Wednesday 8 March, although most jobs are pre-assigned.

The $39 cost of registration includes an ISPS HANDA
New Zealand Open golf shirt and cap to wear while caddying and to take home as
a souvenir.  

Caddies should be social or serious golfers with a
good level of fitness to carry a golf bag around both courses. Registration is
easy by visiting the website.