The Stead Cup

The Stead Cup has been a cornerstone of women’s golf at Queens Park Golf Club since 1919, when it was donated by John Stead, then Mayor of Invercargill. Stead was a respected civic leader who served the city for more than three decades, and he was also the father of Billy Stead, vice-captain of the legendary 1905 All Blacks.

By gifting the Cup to the Queens Park Ladies Golf Club, John Stead hoped to encourage women’s participation in golf and establish a lasting tradition. More than a century later, his vision endures: the Stead Cup remains one of the longest-running women’s golf tournaments in New Zealand, celebrated for its history, prestige, and community spirit.

The inaugural event was won by Miss Cossens, following qualifying rounds of 110 and 109, and a convincing final win by 7 and 6 over Mrs Wood. From those modest beginnings, the Stead Cup soon grew into an annual fixture — a stable celebration of women’s amateur golf, competition and camaraderie, rooted in Invercargill’s heart.

For generations, the trophy has drawn women golfers from across Southland and beyond. As of 2018 — the tournament’s 100th edition — the Stead Cup was described as “the most historic and prestigious piece of silverware tucked away in Southland golfing cabinets.”

Over more than a century, the Cup has evolved — adapting formats while preserving tradition. In the late 1960s the tournament was contested as a stroke-play event, played over three days. By 1973 it reverted to a match-play format — a structure that remains its hallmark today.

The modern Stead Cup (as of 2024 ) has been reduced to a two-day tournament at Queens Park Golf Club. In recent editions, it has continued to attract a strong field: in 2022, for example, the results list shows a full complement of divisions and a well-supported event.

Over the years, the Stead Cup has produced many memorable                    champions. Among them: Robyn Boniface, who has won the Cup an incredible 22 times, the first in 1980, setting a record that stands as a testament to her skill and consistency. Another standout is Val Cullen, with 13 wins to her name over many seasons. Other notable winners include Reta Guttery and Liz Douglas, longtime Southland representatives who have multiple Stead Cup victories.

The Stead Cup is not only about competition—it’s about community, camaraderie, and tradition. Each year, the event brings together women golfers to celebrate the sport, share stories, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Queens Park. The finals are followed by a celebratory dinner, reinforcing the social spirit that makes the Cup so special.