Set atop 6,500 rolling acres of stunning pasture-land, Cape Kidnappers has been described as a modern marvel of golf course architecture.
In 2018 it is currently ranked the 17th best course in the world by international golf publication Golf Digest.
A sister property to Kauri Cliffs, Cape Kidnappers brings together a world-class golf course, Relais & Chateaux luxury lodge accommodation and a working farm in a spectacular location.
The site, named by Captain Cook after a botched kidnapping attempt back in 1769, is an iconic promontory of rugged cliffs and farmland overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Designed by renowned golf architect Tom Doak, the superb course is a combination of clever architecture and respect for the natural topography. Cape Kidnappers is built on a ridge-and-valley landscape and played host to the PGA TOUR’s Kiwi Challenge in 2008 and 2009. The facility’s signature hole is the 15th, named Pirate’s Plank. This 550-metre par 5 has a drop on both sides, with any shots beyond the green lost down the cliff face.
The facility is with premium rental clubs and shoes, golf carts, push carts and caddies. The par 71 course has five sets of tees ranging from 4,739 – 6,532 metres, though distance guides and course markings are available in both metres and yards.
Aside from the magnificent golf course, Cape Kidnappers features a fully stocked golf shop, and men’s and women’s locker rooms with showers and day lockers.
There is also a world-class practice facility with a complete driving range and target greens, a short game area with practice bunker and putting green. PGA Professionals are on hand to provide instruction.
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is the super-luxurious, award-winning Relais & Chateaux lodge. Opened in 2007, it features 22 suites and a four-bedroom owner’s cottage. A wine cellar with tasting room, infinity pool, spa facilities, walking and biking trails and the world’s largest mainland gannet colony are also on-site. The entire property is also surrounded by an eight-kilometre predator-proof fence, with several endangered New Zealand species, including Kiwis protected inside.
The course is open to the public and golf can be enjoyed year-round. For non-golfers, book in at the day spa or the lodge’s restaurant.