I'm more of a mini-golfer than a championship-course golfer, but I can now boast that I've shared a golf cart with former US President Barack Obama.
I mean, it's quite possibly not the same golf cart of course, but just humour me. For just 9 days ago, I was lucky enough to stay at Kauri Cliffs luxury lodge in Northland's beautiful Matauri Bay... the same place Obama is currently enjoying with golfing buddy Sir John Key. Which surely technically makes us new best friends?
But what's it really like behind those security gates on Tepene Tablelands Road? Well, beautiful is the short answer. Beautiful, elegant, relaxed, indulgent, heavenly... the list of superlatives could go on and on.
From the moment you arrive, you're swept into a world of luxury, where no request is too much trouble - but you probably won't need to make any requests, because the expert staff also appear to be mind-readers. They'll anticipate your every need - whether it's a glass of champagne after the long drive from Auckland (sadly, a private chopper flight wsan't part of my deal), a glass of champagne and a fruit platter after your two-hour spa treatment, or a glass of champagne with your pre-dinner canapes. Yes, champagne features heavily.
My friend and I borrowed a golf buggy to explore the 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course and were blown away by the views. Every hole gives a stunning outlook - whether it's towards the native totara forest and acres of rolling farmland, or out across the rugged cliffs and across the Pacific Ocean.
Mr Obama, you'll have a hard time keeping your mind on your game with views this good.
Hopefully you have time for a guided heritage tour of the property before you leave though. The area is steeped in history, and there are numerous beautiful beaches, ancient kauri trees, and excellent selfie vantage points to make the most of.
If you need a guide, Mr former POTUS, I'd be happy to help. Just send down the next chopper...