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Home / Sport / Golf

NZ Open 2026: Ryan Peake returning to Millbrook to defend title

NZ Herald
18 Dec, 2025 04:34 AM2 mins to read

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NZ Open champion Ryan Peake has gone from being a banged-up gang member to a man with the golf world at his feet.
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Ryan Peake will defend his New Zealand Open golf title at Millbrook from February 26 to March 1.

The 32-year-old Australian’s career has surged since lifting the Brodie Breeze Trophy this year.

He earned a place on the Asian Tour, secured a European Tour card and played The Open championship major at Royal Portrush, courtesy of his victory.

The transition has been particularly compelling, given the ex-bikie gang member was found guilty of assault and sentenced to five years in prison aged 21.

“I’m really looking forward to this opportunity… and getting back to New Zealand,” Peake said.

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“It was busy before I won, and then I was straight on the road, learning to travel the world again. It’s been challenging but character-building.”

Peake said no individual result stands out.

“It’s all been one big development, but knowing that I earned those opportunities is rewarding.

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“Other people look at my story differently. For me, it’s just my life – something I live and deal with every day. It doesn’t feel as extraordinary to me as it might to others.”

Peake has also reflected on the support he received from fans during his winning run, crediting a conversation with his coach for helping him to embrace the moment.

“He told me to engage with the crowd, to make them feel part of it.

“By the time that last putt dropped, it felt like 97% were behind me.”

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Today, he still feels the impact of that backing.

“New Zealanders come up to me on the street now. They recognise me and make me feel like I’m part of the country.

“It’s been pretty cool.”

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