Robertson luxurious Lodges Cape Kidnappers , Hawke’s Bay / New Zealand

Tailor made dinners

Cape Kidnappers staff delight in catering for families, offering a children’s menu with classic favourites as well as our chef’s creations sourced from local farms.

Our chefs would love to discuss meal preferences for your children during your stay, and will manage dietary requirements and fussy eaters to ensure a well-balanced, delicious meal is devoured by our youngest guests.

Children under the age of 12-years may dine in the restaurant until 7pm, upon which time alternative dining arrangements can be made. Alternative dining arrangements include private family dining and in room dining.

Cape Kidnappers offers private dining in the Library, Small Dining Room, Snug and Wine Cellar that can be reserved for families. In-room dining is also available.

All of our suites are stocked daily with fresh baked cookies and brownies from our kitchen, and fresh fruit is also served in-room daily.

Private dinner

With a number of exclusive dining locations, Cape Kidnappers has everything you need for your next private function. And whether that is a weekend away for a family reunion, an evening honouring a loved one or a thank you to valued team members, our team would be delighted to help ensure your special occasion is truly memorable.

Private dining options include the Wine Cellar (for 12), Small Dining Room (12), Main Dining Room (32), Small/Main dining rooms (65), Loggia (55), Club House (45), Owner’s Cottage (12), Front Lawn—marquee option (120).

Golf at Cape Kidnappers

Designed by legendary golf architect Tom Doak, the Cape Kidnappers par 71 golf course measures 7,119 yards (6,510 meters) and will challenge golfers of all skill levels. Completed in 2004, our spectacular New Zealand golf course has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf. Built on a ridge-and-valley landscape and with stunning sea views, Cape Kidnappers Golf Course plays high above the ocean atop dramatic cliffs.

With cliff-edge fairways perched 140 metres above sea level and with surface that remains firm and fast, this course offers holes unlike anything you find elsewhere in the world. While every hole has a spectacular view of the Bay, some play cautiously alongside deep ravines as others intimidate golfers with deep cliff top bunkers and sheer drops off the very edge of the earth.

The golf complex includes a world-class practice range, putting and chipping greens, a well-stocked golf shop, club house and ladies’ and mens’ locker rooms. Premium ladies’ and mens’ rental clubs are available. 

In the words of course designer Tom Doak

Cape Kidnappers is not true links terrain, with the wrinkles of sand dunes; instead the land tilts toward the sea as a series of ridges jutting out toward the edge of the cliffs. Yet, the play is seaside golf at its finest. The surface is firm and fast, the conditions can be windy, and the player who can control his trajectory will be master of the course. You'll hit shots over the tops of the tea trees, and play along the edges of deep ravines. If you stray on your approaches, you'll actually hope to get caught up in bunkers hanging off the green's edge, some of them deeper than you've ever seen before. Three times, you'll have to make the perilous leap from the end of one ridge to the end of the next. And at the sixth and fifteenth holes it's possible to pull your approach off the very end of the earth, though it will take nearly ten seconds of hang time for your ball to reach the ocean below.

For myself and my associates, it was a great adventure to track up the hill every day and build a golf course in such a remarkable setting. We hope you enjoy your time here as much as we have. New Zealand is a long way from home, but Cape Kidnappers is never far from our hearts."

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

Golf Travel Tips

Travel Tips

Dress Standards

ALL PLAYERS AND SPECTATORS must be dressed in appropriate golf attire. Neat and tidy at all times with collared shirts, dress trousers, or shorts. Please no jeans, trackpants, sandals, or boots.

Please note we are a NON-METAL SPIKE course. ALL METAL SPIKED golf shoes are prohibited. Pro Shop has golf shoes for sale or rental. 

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR GOLFERS TRAVELING TO NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand’s rural-based economy requires strict bio-security, so it is important for golfers to enter the country with clean golf shoes and clean golf clubs. Anyone arriving with golf clubs and/or golf shoes will be diverted to quarantine inspection upon arrival in New Zealand. With clean shoes, clubs, and golf bags/travel covers, the inspection time should simply be a matter of minutes. For golfers with traces of dirt or grass, bio-security staff will be forced to clean the items and fines may be imposed on the spot. To ensure a speedy entrance, ensure that clubs, shoes, golf bags, and travel covers are free from dirt and grass.

Cape Kidnappers Golf Course Shutdown:

The golf course will be closed for maintenance shutdown from July 3rd – 17th, 2018.  During this time, the entire golf operation will be closed and will not be open to the public.  We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.  Our sister property, Kauri Cliffs, will be open during this time. More information on Kauri Cliffs can be found here.

Cape Kidnappers Greens Coring: 

Cape Kidnappers Golf Course will begin annual greens coring at 11am on September 23rd, 2018. We expect the greens to heal in approximately four weeks and are happy to provide updates during this process. We will be offering a reduced rate during the recovery process.  Please see the applicable rates below:

• September 24th-30th, 2018 – $150.00 Green Fees
• October 1st-21st, 2018 – Low Season Rates
• October 22nd, 2018 – Return to Standard, High Season Rates

We appreciate your understanding as coring is an important and crucial part of the ongoing health of the golf course.

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

Club House & Pro Shop

With amazing views across the fairways and out to the Pacific Ocean, it is the perfect beginning and end to your round. Should you wish to have lunch between the nines, an order can be placed with the Pro Shop before teeing off. Additionally, a full lunch menu is available after the round in the Clubhouse dining room.

Our New Zealand Pro Shop offers an attractive selection of golf and casual-wear for men and women, and is staffed by a team of internationally trained PGA professionals. The range of clothing and equipment features New Zealand cashmeres from Tolaga Bay, hand-made art, and apparel from vendors such as: Polo, Adidas, Peter Millar, Imperial Headwear, Titleist and Nike.

Premium ladies and men’s clubs, as well as golf shoes, are available for rent. 

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat 

FAQ's

How Far Away Is Cape Kidnappers?

Cape Kidnappers is approximately 35-45 minutes from the port by car, or 10 minutes by helicopter.

How Much Time Do I Need To Play Cape Kidnappers?

With ground transfers and sufficient time for golf, an excursion to Cape Kidnappers typically takes between six to seven hours for the full experience. However, we are a low-volume facility, playing approximately 30 rounds of golf per day, so pace of play is typically not a concern. We can also accommodate golfers with special rates for nine holes, or an amount of holes that will allow them to finish in time for their departure.

How Do I Get To Cape Kidnappers?

Our staff can schedule a car and driver to collect you at the ship and deliver you to our doorstep. This is a scenic drive through Art Deco Napier, followed by a spectacular drive through Hawkes Bay wine country. Enroute, you will pass vineyards which produce some of the finest wines New Zealand has to offer. The local driver can tell you about the area’s rich history and lucrative agriculture business. Taxis are typically available at the port, although these cannot always be guaranteed. If you wish to utilize a taxi, please ensure it is pre-arranged by the ship’s staff, or a member of Cape Kidnappers’ staff. Napier also has a number of rental cars available, and we would also suggest that these are booked in advance.

Alternatively, we can assist you in booking a helicopter transfer (depending on landing restrictions at the port), which reduces the travel time to around 10 minutes, landing directly at the Cape Kidnappers helipad.

What Facilities Are Available? What Is There To Do For My Non-Playing Spouse?

Cape Kidnappers is one of the most sought after luxury lodges in the world, and is part of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux collection. Dining options, either formal or casual, are available, as is our luxury spa. We ask that dining and spa requests be booked in advance of your arrival. Non-playing partners are encouraged to walk or ride the course with their golfer, as the views are absolutely spectacular!
The golf facilities include a full practice facility, men’s and women’s locker rooms with lockers and shower facilities, and a fully stocked golf shop with golf accessories, apparel, local artwork, and souvenirs.

What Can You Tell Me About The Course?

The oceanfront golf course was designed by Tom Doak and opened in 2004. The golf course is perched on top of 450 ft. cliffs overlooking the entirety of Hawke Bay. Holes run along narrow fingers of land until you find yourself on a green perched, on what seems to be, the edge of the World. The golf course is one of a kind and must be experienced by everyone who has a love for the dramatic.

What Do I Need To Bring?

Cape Kidnappers can provide premium rental equipment including golf shoes, as well as apparel and accessories. You are most welcome to bring your own clubs, shoes and golf balls.

Golfers may choose to walk the golf course, use a trundler/pullcart, one of our ClubCar Precedent golf carts, or utilize the services of a caddie or forecaddie. We kindly request that any caddie needs be communicated in advance of your arrival.

How Can I Learn More Or Book A Tee Time?

Our friendly golf staff are always available to answer questions contact our concierge@above-5.com

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

Accommodation for Families

Every day, Cape Kidnappers welcomes families of all sizes and ages. We have a number of options available for accommodating children, including in-room, adjoining rooms and neighbouring suites.

Children can sleep in the same room as their parents, with additional bedding or cribs added on request to our Ridge and Lodge Suites.

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers offers family suites, with an adjoining second bedroom with ensuite, while our four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage offers plenty of space to stretch out as a family. The Owner’s Cottage can be booked as either a four-bedroom cottage, two-bedroom cottage or two-bedroom suite. Cape Kidnappers also offers side by side Hilltop Suite and Ridge and Lodge Suite accommodation for independence seeking tweens and teens.

Children up to the age of 24 months stay complimentary at Cape Kidnappers, while children aged 2-5-years are NZ$200 + 15% GST per night when occupying adults room using existing or additional bedding. A charge of NZ$550 + 15% GST per night apply for an additional bed for a child aged 6-years or older.

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

Shepherding

Join our shepherd for an introduction to life on a 6,000 acre working sheep and beef farm. A must-do for our younger guests, prepare to be amazed as you witness the farm dogs muster sheep. Highly-trained, these dogs are key members of the team at Cape Kidnappers Stations and children and adults alike are fascinated by this display.

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my child/children to Cape Kidnappers?

Absolutely. Every day, Cape Kidnappers welcomes children of all ages to our lodges.

Can they sleep in my room?

Yes. Children can sleep in the same room as their parents. However, additional bedding or cribs can only be added to our Ridge or Lodge Suites. Please advise at the time of booking if you would like a crib or additional bed added to your room.

Is there an extra cost for my child/children to stay at the lodge?

Children up to the age of 24-months stay complimentary at Cape Kidnappers. Children aged 2-5-years are NZ$200 + 15% GST per night when occupying adults’ room using existing or additional bedding. A charge of NZ$550 + 15% GST per night apply for an additional bed for a child aged 6-years or older.

What accommodation options do you have for older children?

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers offers family suites, with an adjoining second bedroom with ensuite, while our four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage offers plenty of space to stretch out as a family. The Owner’s Cottage can be booked as either a four-bedroom cottage, two-bedroom cottage or two-bedroom suite. Cape Kidnappers also offers side by side Suite and Deluxe Suite accommodation for independence seeking tweens and teens.

Can my children dine in the restaurant?

Children under the age of 12-years may dine in the restaurant until 7pm, upon which time alternative dining arrangements can be made, including private family dining and in room dining.

What other dining options are available for families?

The lodge offers a variety of private dining spaces that can be reserved for families during their stay, while in-room dining is also available at the lodge.

What menu options are there for children?

Our lodge chefs will provide families with a children’s menu, and also offer children and their parents the chance to request specific meals.

Do you have high chairs?

Yes, the lodge can supply small children with high chairs.

Do you have prams/buggies?

Yes, the lodge can supply prams and buggies for children

Do you have car seats?

Yes, the lodge can supply car seats for children’s transfer arrangements. If you would like one provided for your transfer services please advise at the time of booking. If you would like one to use during your stay, please advise at the time of booking.

Do you have baby monitors?

Yes, the lodge can supply baby monitors for children. If you would like one provided during your stay, please advise at the time of booking.

Do you provide babysitting services?

Yes, the lodge can arrange babysitting services. Advance booking essential. Charges apply.

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

The Sanctuary

The Cape Sanctuary is the largest privately owned and funded wildlife restoration project of its kind in New Zealand.

 Now 10 years in the making and with a predator-proof fence that stretches 10.6km from coast to coast, the sanctuary has a vision to restore the communities of landbirds, seabirds, reptiles and invertebrates that once thrived on the peninsula. Key to these efforts are the relocation and protection of juvenile kiwi bird, the preservation of the gannet colonies and protection of precious flora and fauna that would otherwise be at risk from predators.

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

Can-Am

Adventure, Scenic, Family

Largely inaccessible to regular vehicles, Cape Kidnappers is best explored by Can-Am. Discover this rugged terrain with a personal guide as you travel to the very edges of this vast coastal property. Breathe in the southward views towards Ocean Beach and Bare Island before turning back to unrivalled vistas across the entire farm towards Napier and the surrounding ranges; venture through an old creek bed, across expansive farmland and down to historic Rangaika Beach. Ideal for all age groups and fitness levels, this tour is an absolute highlight.

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

Kiwi Discovery Walk

Scenic, Romance, Family

An experience like no other and exclusive to guests of Cape Kidnappers, this is your chance to see the rare, endangered kiwi in its own, natural habitat. Venture into the pine forests surrounding the lodge with an experienced guide as they carry out essential monitoring of kiwi chicks.

Assist your guide as they check the kiwi’s radio transmitters, weigh and measure the birds to monitor their wellbeing. Proceeds from this experience go to the Cape Kidnappers’ Sanctuary to ensure the continuation of their work preserving our native species.

Limited to just two groups a day of no more than six guests, this is something many New Zealanders themselves will never have the chance to experience.

Gannet Colony

Scenic, Family

Cape Kidnappers is home to the largest, most accessible mainland colony of gannets in the world. A part of the Booby family, these birds have incredibly distinct markings and a fascinating migration pattern.

Visit the colony and see gannets nesting in rows, hatchlings learning to fly and adult gannets carrying out their daily routines. The birds are usually in residence from September until early May, when the adult birds depart and their newly hatched chicks take flight to Australia for two years before returning to Cape Kidnappers once more. The Can-Am Tour is a great way to see the colonies or if you are feeling adventurous, take a picnic and venture out toward the colony either on foot or mountain bike.

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

The Spa

We invite you to relax and rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit at The Spa at Cape Kidnappers.

Located at the top of the path leading from the main lodge to the Hilltop suites, the spa’s incredible views of Hawke’s Bay will calm and relax you before your treatment even begins.

With 3 treatment rooms (including a couple’s suite, perfect for honeymooners), we offer a collection of massage styles, facials, pedicures, manicures and hair care.

All spa treatments are 60-90 minutes in length and packages can be customised to suit your individual needs.

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

Signature Treatments

Healing Manuka Honey Facial 60 mins

The perfect facial for all skin types, experience the power of the New Zealand’s world-renowned healing Manuka Honey. Helps improve cellular regeneration thereby improving skin texture and skin smoothness. Also helps to promote collagen production.

Jet Lag Cure Eye Treatment and Back Massage  60 mins

This treatment combines a deep tissue back, neck and shoulder massage, followed by an awakening eye treatment to visibly reduce the dehydrating and tiring effects of a long journey. Minimise the signs of time and tiredness of your eye contour, and melt away any remaining body tension - the perfect restoration.

Verité Scrub & Massage  90 mins

Begin this luxurious treatment with a full body exfoliation, using Verité’s organic hand-crafted sugar body polish. After a steamy shower, you will enjoy your choice of a relaxing or remedial massage to nourish your skin and revive your muscles.

ADD ON: Scalp Massage 15 mins

Complete your treatment with a truly relaxing scalp massage. Allow yourself to drift off as your therapist applies a warm mask and manipulates those secret pressure points, to unlock absolute bliss.

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

Body Treatments

Verité Organic Body Scrub 45 mins

Give your body the ultimate smoothing treatment, with your choice of Verité’s organic hand-crafted sugar body polish, followed by a steamy shower and full body moisturise. This treatment will leave your skin glowing, nourished and refreshed.

Cocoon Body treatment 90 mins

This body treatment will care for your entire body, from head to toe. Starting with a full body exfoliation using Verité’s organic hand-crafted sugar body polish, enjoy a scalp massage during a body wrap selected to suit your skin’s needs, and finish with a relaxing back massage.

Soothing Body Extremities Treatment 75 mins

Enjoy a massage at each extremity of your body, where your nerves are the most receptive and your body works hardest. The treatment begins at the top with a scalp and neck massage, descending to your arms to reach your hard-working hands, and concluding with a deep tissue massage of your feet, the support of your whole body.

Foot Reflexology 45 mins

An aromatic foot soak is followed by a massage which concentrates on acupressure points and energy lines of the feet to balance and revitalise the whole body.

ADD ON: Healing Manuka Honey Express Facial 30 mins

Complete your treatment with a relaxing and effective facial that uses active manuka honey, to soothe and rejuvenate your skin

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

Facials

Cape Kidnappers Botanical Facial 60 mins

This botanical facial uses New Zealand skincare products. A beneficial treatment, which more than delivers its promise to restore balance to all skin types.

Skin Solutions Facial 60 mins

After a personalised skin analysis, your therapist will guide you to choose the most effective products for your facial from our range of advanced skincare. Especially beneficial for those with problem skin, this treatment will be completely customised just for you.

Sublime Anti-Aging, Double-Peel Facial 30 mins

Offering two different formulations of intensity to choose from, this peeling facial is suitable for delicate or resistant skin. This technique significantly smooths, illuminates and evens out the skin tone, improving the appearance of wrinkles.

Sublime Anti-Aging, Skin Deluxe Lift Facial 75 mins

This lifting facial combines the renewing efficacy of the double peel with the innovative firming bi-phasic mask. It softens the visible signs of aging and cosmetically redefines the shape and surface of the face.

Men's Balancing Facial 60 mins

A classical facial treatment designed specifically to meet the needs of a man’s skin. This deep pore cleansing facial removes impurities, soothes razor irritation and reduces roughness. Warm towels, combined with a face, neck and shoulder massage ensures total relaxation.

ADD ON: Back Indulgence 30 mins

Take a few more minutes to release your tension and reach total indulgence with this back massage supplement.

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

Massages

Your treatment begins with a full consultation as each massage we offer is customised to meet the specific needs of each guest. Please communicate any special health conditions to your therapist in order to maximise the benefits and enjoyment of your treatment. 60 minutes and 90 minutes 

Relaxtion Massage  60 mins

Combining various styles of massage, your therapist will use light, medium or firm pressure to transform a traditional Swedish massage into a personalised treatment to promote body and mind relaxation.

Deep Tissue Massage  60 Mins

Using firm to deep pressure and paying attention to trigger points, this massage effectively loosens connective tissue and releases accumulated tension in tight, stressed areas.

Golfer's Sports Massage  60 mins

With special focus on golf-specific muscles of the shoulders, glutes and legs, tight and tired muscles are softened and stretched to allow for quick recovery and prepare the body for the next game.

Pregnancy Massage 60 Mins

With special care, our relaxation massage is transformed into a full body experience for mothers-to-be in their second or third trimester. This massage is done in a side-lying, supported position, using pregnancy-safe products and techniques.

Hot Stone Massage 75 mins

If you would like to experience our Hot Stone Massage, kindly advise in advance. This massage is offered as a sedative, ritualised treatment for relaxation. Large heated New Zealand river stones are placed on key areas on the body while smaller stones are used as an extension of your therapist’s hands to melt away stress and muscle tension.

ADD ON: Healing Manuka Honey Express Facial 30 mins

Complete your treatment with a relaxing and effective facial that uses active manuka honey, to soothe and rejuvenate your skin

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!

Hands & Feet

Luxury Manicure 60 mins

A very special treat for your hands and nails. Your hands are cocooned in hot towels then exfoliated with a lavender salt scrub. Nail and cuticle work is followed by a massage and polish of your choice.

Luxury Pedicure  75 mins

We soak and exfoliate your feet in a lavender infused bath. Afterwards, lay back on the treatment bed while your feet and lower legs are massaged with a lavender balm. Your toenails will be filed and shaped, cuticles cared for and nails polished.

Express Manicure or Pedicure  40 mins

An express treatment to tidy and quickly improve the appearance of the hands and/or feet. Cuticles are cared for, and nails are shaped and buffed or painted.

Express Manicure & Pedicure  75 mins

An express treatment to tidy and quickly improve the appearance of the hands and/or feet. Cuticles are cared for, and nails are shaped and buffed or painted.

Men's Manicure or Pedicure  45 mins

Enjoy a relaxing soak, exfoliation and massage of your hands or feet. Afterwards, experience a meticulous grooming of rough skin, cuticles are cared for, and nails are shaped and buffed to perfection.

ADD ON: Shellac Nails Colour  20 mins

Add on 20 mins

For more information please contact our concierge@above-5.com or concierge@above5stars.com or chat with us via our website chat !!!