Golf: Clearwater poised to lose NZ Open

Lydia Ko of New Zealand poses with the New Zealand Women's Open trophy. Photo / Getty Images

Christchurch may have shot itself in the foot as it tries to cling to hosting rights for the New Zealand Women's Open.

Clearwater's hosting rights contract is now up and it's understood Auckland is now the frontrunner to take over.

New Zealand Golf CEO Dean Murphy says crowd numbers could've been better this year.

Murphy says they will consult with Lydia Ko about her preference for hosting the event. Ko has won the event three times.

A decision is expected within the next couple of months.