Cape Kidnappers - New Zealand’s Iconic Golf At The Edge Of The Earth

ByLuxury Adventures

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Cape Kidnappers – New Zealand’s Iconic Golf At The Edge Of The Earth

Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s most captivating regions, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant art deco architecture (especially in Napier), and, perhaps most famously, its world-class wine industry. It’s a place where city, rural and coastline can all co-exist, and where a Mediterranean climate allows for lush vineyards and orchards.

Perched high above the Pacific Ocean on the rugged Hawke’s Bay coastline, Cape Kidnappers is a golf destination that few in the world can match. With its dramatic cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and exclusivity, it’s no wonder this course is the centrepiece of any luxury golf tour of New Zealand. I can tell you from experience, this is the most unique and exclusive destination in the South Pacific.

Making your way from the main road to Cape Kidnappers Lodge is pretty cool. Of course you’re looking forward to getting to the lodge, but after passing through the main gates, you embark on a winding drive to the top. You get to catch glimpses of daily farm life as well as the massive exposed rock faces that have likely stood for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. As you continue your ascent, the landscape slowly transforms, revealing more and more of the property. In the distance, the coastal cliffs and the ocean begin to appear. By the time you pull up to the lodge, you’ll have already witnessed some of New Zealand’s most impressive countryside, but that’s just a taste. Cape Kidnappers is about to blow your mind.

A Golfing Landmark:

Cape Kidnappers’ story begins not with golf, but with sheep. The property is still a working sheep and cattle station, sprawling across 6,000 acres of rolling farmland and native bush. The land itself is steeped in local legend, named after an incident in 1769 when local Māori tried to abduct a member of Captain Cook’s crew. For generations, the headland remained largely untouched, its dramatic cliffs and wild beauty known mostly to locals and farmers.

That changed in the early 2000s, when American billionaire Julian Robertson envisioned transforming the property into a world-class golf and hospitality destination. He enlisted renowned architect Tom Doak, whose minimalist, land-first approach was the perfect fit for the site’s natural drama. Opened in 2004, Cape Kidnappers quickly earned global acclaim, consistently ranking among the world’s top golf courses.

The Course: A Masterpiece by Tom Doak

Cape Kidnappers is a par-71 layout stretching over 6500 metres from the championship tees. What sets it apart is not just the challenge, but the setting, like fairways perched on fingers of land that jut out into the Pacific, with sheer drops on either side and nothing but ocean and sky beyond.

Doak’s design philosophy is evident throughout. The course feels as if it’s always been part of the landscape, with minimal earth moved during construction. Fairways are wide but undulating, rewarding thoughtful strategy over brute force. Bunkers are deep and rugged, often carved into the natural contours of the land. The greens are large, fast, and full of subtle breaks, demanding a deft touch and creative shot-making.

The ever-changing conditions mean no two rounds are ever quite the same, and the course remains endlessly engaging for repeat visitors.

Facilities:

The facilities at Cape Kidnappers are second to none. Firstly, there is the big beautiful clubhouse with a vintage/historic feel to it. It comes complete with a bar & kitchen as well as areas to sit outside or perhaps cosy up close to the fire if you’re playing in the cooler months. The pro-shop is filled with top of the line golf gear, accessories and souvenirs.

The range is immaculate, it has staggered greens you can target long to short, a chipping and bunker area and a massive putting green. These are all manicured to the highest level.

Playability:

What makes the iconic courses in New Zealand iconic, tend to be the way in which they have been built into the natural surroundings, and Cape Kidnappers is no different. The course starts its way through farmland up and down and around followed by the stretch of holes that make all the postcard images, however, Cape Kidnappers has outstanding playability from the first hole and Tom Doak ensures the player is in awe of the course layout not just the scenery. The course guide/handbook comes in very handy for useful course tips and is included with your green fees.

Notable holes: (The White Tees)

Hole 4 – (Par5) 468 metres

A great hole with a blind tee shot to a nice open fairway. Comforting to know you’ve got room but only if you hit it well. The second shot is a bit more tricky as the ravine hazard down the right comes into play. The green is in corner on the right. The ravine and bunkers guard the green if you try to cut the corner.

Hole 5 – (Par 4) 366 metres

The tee shot is over a bush gully to a nice wide fairway which can accommodate a slight draw or a fade. The 2nd shot can be tricky because the hole has a split fairway with a bunker in the middle. There’s also bunkers left and right of the green if you stray.

Hole 6 – (Par 3) 174 metres

A long Par 3, the tee shot is played over a deep ravine to a big green that seemingly arches in the middle. Club selection and wind judgment is critical. You can see trouble in long bunkers left and right side. Fractionally short is Ok, short short, or left is bad.

Hole 12 – (Par 4) 393 metres

The long Par 4 is perhaps the most photographed hole on the course. The 12th plays out toward the horizon, with nothing but ocean behind the green. The tee shot is semi-blind with a large post offering guidance. Club selection is tricky for the second, as the wind can swirl unpredictably, and anything long or left is lost to the cliffs. This is the hole that makes Cape Kidnappers, Cape Kidnappers. Standing on the green and taking in the surroundings is a must.

Hole 13 – (Par 3) 114 metres

A short Par 3, the 14th features a, raised green surrounded by a few bunkers. It’s a classic Par 3 hole, requiring accuracy, with great views leading on from the last hole.

Hole 15 – (Par 5) 504 metres

Known as ‘Pirates plank’ this signature Par 5 is as dramatic as they come, with the fairway running along a narrow ridge and sheer drops on both sides. Its a straight hole, but don’t let that fool you. It’s a hole that measures over 500 metres, where the second and third shots are as important as the first. If there is wind, you will be challenged. The green is set against a backdrop of endless blue and cliff face, making for a truly memorable finish.

Hole 18 – (Par4) 357 metres

A great finishing hole, where a good tee shot is needed to a fairway that winds its way left and then right. The punchbowl green is massive. It can be fed by the fairway or hit directly down the right hand side. Don’t be fooled though, the green will take some reading if you aren’t on there close to the hole.. A fun way to finish a spectacular round of golf.

Accommodation: The Farm at Cape Kidnappers

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, is a luxury lodge that blends rustic charm with modern elegance. The main lodge is designed to evoke the feel of a castle, with exposed timber beams, stone fireplaces, and expansive windows that frame the breathtaking views. Our stay in one of the Grand Ridge Suites at Cape Kidnappers Lodge was truly remarkable. The epitome of luxury.

Guests can choose from a range of suites and cottages, each thoughtfully appointed with plush bedding, deep soaking tubs, and private balconies overlooking the property. The attention to detail is evident everywhere, from the locally sourced amenities to the curated artwork and fresh flowers in every room. There are 22 spacious cottage suites with one or two bedroom options and a four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage. All accommodations are designed to maximize the stunning views and provide privacy and comfort.

Suites: These are generously appointed, with options like Lodge Suites (in the main building), Ridge Suites (more secluded), and Hilltop Suites (with the best panoramic views). Each suite features a private balcony, grand bathrooms, plush bedding, and luxe amenities.
Owner’s Cottage: This is a standalone villa with four suites, perfect for families or groups. It includes a large living area, kitchen, private infinity pool, and outdoor jacuzzi, all with sweeping ocean and farmland views.

Service at The Farm is warm and personalised, with staff anticipating your every need. Whether it’s arranging a private wine tasting, booking a spa treatment, or organizing a guided tour of the property’s extensive walking trails and wildlife sanctuary.

Guests enjoy a range of luxury facilities, including:

A 50-foot heated infinity pool with ocean views and a poolside cabana.
A spa with three treatment rooms (including a couple’s suite), offering massages, facials, and beauty treatments, either in the spa or in your suite.
A gym, outdoor jacuzzi, and a world-class Tom Doak-designed golf course.
Free WiFi, a CD/DVD/book library, and a complimentary minibar (soft drinks and domestic beers).
Private balconies or terraces in every suite.

Dining: Hawke’s Bay’s Best

Dining at Cape Kidnappers is a highlight in its own right. The restaurant showcases the best of Hawke’s Bay’s renowned produce, with menus that change daily to reflect the seasons. Breakfasts are hearty and fresh, featuring local eggs and meats, homemade pastries, and seasonal fruit. The Eggs bene were are real highlight at breakfast time! Lunch can be enjoyed in the lodge or as a gourmet picnic on the course.

Dinner is a multi-course affair, with dishes that celebrate the region’s lamb, beef, and seafood, paired with award-winning wines from nearby vineyards. The culinary team is passionate about sustainability and provenance, ensuring every meal is both delicious and responsible. Special dietary needs are happily accommodated, and private dining options are available for those seeking a more intimate experience. The beef I had basically melted in my mouth it was that good.

Activities: Adventure and Relaxation

While golf is the main attraction, Cape Kidnappers offers plenty for non-golfers and those looking to unwind. The property’s extensive walking and biking trails wind through native bush and farmland, offering the chance to spot rare birds and enjoy panoramic views. The on-site spa provides a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate, while the infinity pool is the perfect spot to soak in the scenery.

For the adventurous, Hawke’s Bay is famous for its wineries, art deco architecture, and outdoor pursuits like fishing, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning. Speak to us is you’d like to add more activities to your Hawkes Bay itinerary.

Final Thoughts

At Cape Kidnappers, it’s just different. It’s supreme comfort, and luxury, super high level service and grandeur all mixed in one.

Days here can be as relaxed or adventurous as you wish: tee off on a world-class golf course perched above the Pacific, explore native wildlife sanctuaries, or simply unwind at the spa and soak in the endless views. The farm-to-table ethos ensures every meal is a celebration of local flavour, with premium beef, fresh seafood, and garden-fresh produce taking centre stage

If you would like to find out more please contact us on the details below.

Written by Steve McKean, Co-Owner of Luxury Adventures

Luxury Adventures has over 2 decades of crafting bespoke luxury travel experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Steve is passionate about showcasing the region’s most unforgettable places, from hidden alpine retreats, sunny paradises to world-class golf courses.

A keen golfer and travel lover, he blends insider knowledge with a deep respect for local culture and sustainability. When not curating extraordinary journeys, you’ll find him exploring off-the-beaten-path lodges or teeing off at sunrise.

For more information email us: info@luxuryadventures.co.nz or follow our adventures on Instagram here

Linkedin: Connect with Luxury Adventures Directors Steve McKean & Dee McKean