Host Sir Michael Hill spoke at the clubhouse in the morning, announcing his expectations for the revamped tournament and associated pro-am, and said the vision was to make the tournament one of the most significant in the world.
"We can do it because we live in the most beautiful place on the planet, so that's a huge start."
"This could help bring billions to the place."
He said the success of the New Zealand Open from 2007-10 was an example of the pulling power of golf, and said the sport could rival skiing in terms of visitor numbers and revenue.
"We are only limited by our imagination and if we think we can do it, we will do it. I'm very excited and very happy to be able to help in any way I can."
The tournament's major celebrity drawcard, actor Don Cheadle, arrived in Queenstown at midday, and tournament director Michael Glading said he was looking forward to being part of the event.
Nick Cullen (Australia), David Smail (New Zealand) and Michael Long (New Zealand) are also taking part in the event.
Brendan Jones, the tournament's top-ranked player at 80th in the world, arrived on Sunday to spend a few extra hours on the course, as it was his first visit to The Hills.
New Zealand professional Phil Tutaurangi arrived yesterday.
Glading said most players would be in the region by tomorrow and he was quietly optimistic the inaugural tournament would be successful.
"Organisationally, we are well under control and everyone this week will be settling into the tournament.
"There's no red lights yet, just green ones.
"We want this to be an all-round experience and not one just for those in it for golf."
Former All Black and tournament committee chairman John Hart also arrived yesterday.
Prime Minister John Key said the event would further cement New Zealand's reputation as a "world-class events destination" after the Government contributed $500,000 to it.
"It will attract players and supporters from key international markets and showcase Queenstown and New Zealand to global audiences," he said.
Mr Key, who will play in Friday's amateur and celebrity preliminary tournament at Jack's Point, is expecting the tournament to "reap big tourism rewards".
The event is run in partnership with The Hills, the NZPGA and the Government's Major Events Development Fund.
