"With the amount of kids playing football now we thought it would be an added attraction and an income structure for the club. Investigations we did showed in some areas in the UK, courses had closed as traditional golf facilities," he says.
For those of us who struggle to keep the golf ball on the short grass, foot golf does offer a simpler way to play the game, although putting is just as tricky.
"We found over the years with corporate golf events a lot of people can't actually make contact with a golf ball. Anybody can play it, when we first launched it we had some of our elder ladies come and have a kick."
Steward says the club will still accommodate its members' needs in traditional golf and believes all the club members are enthusiastic about the new addition.
He says growing the game and making it work with the current setup is important.
"We envisage having twilight competitions during the summer, where we put teams against each other."
Foot golf at Ōtūmoetai Golf Club:
• Open day hours between 3pm and 5pm
• To book a time call 07 576 9739 or email info@otumoetaigolf.co.nz
• All welcome at no charge
• Wear your trainers (no boots, sprigs or cleats)
• Bring your own soccer ball and pencil to record your score
• Foot golf is suitable for all ages, men, women and the kids