The natural setting at Cape Kidnappers is part of what makes the course one-of-a-kind . The entire peninsula extends 10 kilometers from the southeastern extremity of Hawkes Bay into the South Pacific . The golf course and adjacent lodge , The Farm at Cape Kidnappers , occupy a 6,000-acre property protected by more than 10 kilometers of protective fencing — meaning the barrier extends nearly as far below ground as above it , to protect endangered species from predators .
As a result , golfers are treated to fauna and flora unlike any in the world . Guests at The Farm can partake of Kiwi Discovery walks , Hanging Rock Gorge hikes and all manner of bird tours – the tip of Cape Kidnappers is home to the world ’ s largest gannet colony . These examples of naturalistic sights and activities only scratch the surface : The Cape Sanctuary is the largest privately owned and funded wildlife restoration project of its kind in New Zealand .
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is one of three Relais & Chateaux properties in New Zealand owned and operated by Robertson Lodges . The others : Matakauri Lodge in Queenstown and The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs in Bay of Islands , home to another perennial world top 100 course , Kauri Cliffs Golf Club .
Kauri Cliffs was designed and built by David Harman of Golf Course Consultants , Orlando , Florida , who passed away at age 51 just seven years after the course opened in 2000 . The par 72 golf course measures 7,139 yards and offers five sets
Kauri Cliffs
58 PORTFOLIO MAGAZINE