Cape Kidnappers

Cape Kidnappers is perched high above the cliffs at the southern tip of the Hawkes Bay, looking out across the Pacific Ocean. Like Kauri Cliffs, Cape Kidnappers is spread out over 6,000 acres of rolling farmland and native bush and has drawn international fanfare and accolades since it opened in 2004.

Designed by Tom Doak, this course ranks in the world’s Top 100 golf courses and is an absolute show stopper to play. The layout itself is a stern test and flows nicely, leaving you in awe of the surroundings.  Sitting a top a rugged 10-kilometre peninsula that juts into the South Pacific, the course occupies what was once a working sheep and cattle station. Doak’s routing exploits the land’s dramatic ridges, valleys, deep ravines and cliff edges to deliver a blend of visual beauty and golfing challenge.

Doak’s design rewards thoughtful strategy more than power. The course has generous fairways in places, but many holes demand precision, especially the cliff-hanging back nine. Greens are well-bunkered, often with false fronts and subtle contours. Wind coming off the Pacific can significantly affect club selection.

Most holes have a spectacular view across the bay or have you looking down into deep ravines.  Many golfers are intimidated  by the deep clifftop bunkers and sheer drop-off sat the very edge of the earth.  The back nine is a big hit with visitors and plays along a ridge and valley out towards Cape Kidnappers. The par-5 15^th (known as the “Pirate’s Plank) is the star, rated by Aussie star, Adam Scott as his favourite hole anywhere in the world. In truth, it’s one of 18 holes that will have you coming back for more!

Upon entering the property, the 20-minute drive from the gate up to the clubhouse you will pass through the Cape Sanctuary, a large wildlife restoration project which adds another dimension and natural feeling to the environment that makes Cape Kidnappers special.

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