The spirited 37-year-old will spearhead the Asian Tour challenge in the talented field when he makes his debut appearance at the NZ$1,250,000 event, which is taking place at the scenic Millbrook Resort and The Hills.

“I had a lot of high expectations of New Zealand after all that I had heard and it has definitely lived up to the hype and so much more now that I am here. I think it’s by far the prettiest place in the world to play golf,” said Kapur, who tees off at 10:27am (AEDT).

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The four-time Asian Tour winner is also relishing the opportunity to play alongside close friend and former national cricket team captain Stephen Fleming in the event, which is co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia.

Known for his love for cricket, Kapur took time off to participate in a cricket match at the Millbrook Cricket Ground on Monday. He also made an unforgettable trip to the beautiful Milford Sound with his family amidst his preparations for the event.

Coming off the back of his victory at the QLD PGA, defending champion Daniel Nisbet is even par thru seven holes at the prestigious event, where he closed with a superb nine-under-par 62 to win by two shots for his maiden Asian Tour title 12 months ago.