"This will be a fun, social weekend and a unique geothermal golfing experience for visitors and locals alike," he said. "The event fits well with Rotorua's position as a host of major events and attracting participants from around New Zealand and overseas."
The Saturday will feature qualifying rounds plus tips from the experts with finals on the Sunday. The winners of the tournament will gain direct access to the Speedgolf World Championships in Oregon, US next year.
Willis, the 2008 Olympic 1500m silver medallist, will be taking part in the event.
"Speedgolf has become a great passion of mine," Willis said. "It enables me to get out on to the links, for nine or 18 holes, without me being away from home for more than an hour - perfect when having a young family.
"It is also a great workout that compliments my running training and helps keep me fit in the off season when I need a mental break from athletics.
"I am really excited for the New Zealand Speedgolf Open in Rotorua to showcase this great sport to all the talented jack-of-all-trade sports people we have in our country."
Rotorua Golf Club general manager Don Blackledge said they were delighted to host the inaugural competition.
"We will look forward to being part of another format option to the game of golf as we know it and the interest it will bring to Rotorua and our club," he said.
-To enter go to www.golf.co.nz and under the tournament section register for the New Zealand Speedgolf Open.
