Meet Our
Leading Lady
Kaye grew up on a dairy farm in the beautiful Mangatawhiri Valley, just 20 minutes from Bombay. The third of four children—and the third girl—Mum was especially thrilled when the fourth turned out to be a boy! Life on the farm was full of fun and family, with their home often the hub for local gatherings and extended family events.
Her mum was a talented tennis player and a brilliant cook, while her dad—quiet, warm, and always smiling, just like Kaye—loved the rural life, hunting and fishing with his mates. When Kaye showed promise in golf, her mum drove her all over Auckland and the Waikato for lessons and junior tournaments, with Maramarua as her home course.
At just 15, Kaye won the Maramarua Ladies Club Championship after an epic 45-hole final against her Aunty June. That win sparked a competitive career that led to more titles, representation for Auckland, the New Zealand Juniors, and eventually the national team. Her favourite memories? The camaraderie and success with the Auckland team over 15 incredible years.
She later married a fellow golfer and settled in Parnell, raising two wonderful kids. In 2000, she decided to carve out a new path—moving to Bombay to create her own golf retreat, while giving her children the gift of a country upbringing and time with their cousins. Kaye’s dad had passed by then, but her mum was living nearby in Pukekohe. Kaye cherished 17 more years with her until her passing.
Now, in 2025, Kaye is proudly celebrating 25 years in Bombay. Her son lives nearby, helps part-time on the golf course, and creates stunning custom slab resin furniture. She’s also a proud grandmother to a lively 3-year-old girl. Kaye’s daughter inherited the same passion for sport and has spent the past decade working in the fitness industry with Nike in the U.S.—and it doesn’t look like she’s coming home anytime soon!
Kaye turned 70 in May and is now passing the reins of Maxwells to two of her valued members Shane & Terese Callander, who will take the clubhouse, golf course, café and functions side of the business to its next level. But retirement isn’t on the cards just yet—she’ll continue running her beloved guest house, coaching, and leading her popular golf tours. After all, she still loves having people to stay and sharing her passion for life and the game.
For those who know Kaye, all agree—her happy demeanour is warm, welcoming, and absolutely contagious!
