Man Walks 3000km Across New Zealand With Two Golf Bag Sets

When Doug Haynes decided to walk from one end of New Zealand to the other, he knew he needed something to make the 3000km journey memorable. So the 31-year-old caddie from Mangawhai grabbed two full sets of golf clubs and hit the trail.

Haynes is three months into walking the Te Araroa Trail, raising money for KidsCan, a charity that supports children in need across New Zealand. This weekend marks a major milestone as he crosses from the North Island to the South Island.

The extra 28kg of golf equipment sits on top of his regular hiking gear and food supplies. Some days, his shoulders and legs force him to stop every few kilometers for rest.

"It's not pleasant, but it's also not as bad as you would imagine," Haynes told Stuff. "My legs and upper body are definitely stronger each week."

Originally from Oxford, England, Haynes moved to New Zealand six years ago and watched hikers tackle the famous trail for years. As a caddie, he carries golf clubs daily for work, so adding them to a 180-day trek felt like a natural challenge.

But the clubs aren't just extra weight. During his 91 days in the North Island, Haynes played 15 rounds of golf, often joining locals or spontaneous supporters who heard about his journey.

"Playing a round of golf helps me promote the charitable side of things," he said. "It's a way to share the story and spread awareness."

The Ripple Effect

The response has blown Haynes away. He's already raised over $16,000 for KidsCan, smashing his original expectations.

A group of American tourists spotted him resting with his clubs at the Wellington cable car and handed him $100 on the spot. He uses Facebook groups to alert towns that a "maniac with two sets of golf clubs" is coming through, sparking beeps, waves, and donations.

"I chose KidsCan because the kids of New Zealand are the future of the country," Haynes said. "I have been fortunate to live in a welcoming community and I wanted to give back in any way I could."

The trail hasn't been easy. The muddy Puketī Forest near Kerikeri and the steep, slippery Tararua range north of Wellington tested every ounce of his endurance.

Even in brutal weather, Haynes targets roughly 20km daily. He credits listening to local rangers and Department of Conservation staff for keeping him safe through the toughest stretches.

With the South Island ahead and a planned April finish, Haynes plans to keep raising funds, playing golf, and inspiring anyone who spots him on the trail.