Greenkeeper's kayak proves handy tool

Island Park Golf Club greenkeeper Michael Minty kayaks up the fairway of the third hole yesterday. Photo / Peter McIntosh

Dunedin's Island Park Golf Club greenkeeper Michael Minty was back in his kayak yesterday, inspecting damage to the course after last week's rain.

Two days after the deluge, he launched the kayak to check the Waldronville course.

''On Friday, there was still some water flowing on to the course and down the lower end, the water was two feet [0.6m] deep in places,'' Mr Minty said.

''There was widespread debris, while marker pegs, tee blocks, plastic rakes and some rubbish were floating on the water.''

By yesterday, the water level had dropped a bit, but there was still a long way to go, he said.

''The water gauge records a maximum of 150mm and it was completely full so I think we had about 160mm in less than 24 hours.''

''Without [further] rain, it is likely to take the rest of the week to completely drain, although this is just an estimate, as it has never been like this since I started here eight years ago.

''The four holes from the fifth to the eighth are now playable and the fourth hole will also be back to normal when the tee block drains.

''The first fairway was completely covered in water and this is the first time I have seen that happen.''

Mr Minty was paddling around yesterday collecting marker pegs, tee blocks and rakes in preparation for the tough task of getting the course back into playing condition.

''When the water is all gone, I have a lot of work to do which will include repairing blown-out drains.''

''There may be some play in the weekend but that decision will be up to the committee.''

- Otago Daily Times