Cape Kidnappers
Rural luxury lodge — think plush suites with schist fireplaces, Huntaway dogs herding sheep outside your window, farm-to-table dining from the property's own kitchen garden, and a world-ranked clifftop golf course. Warm and unpretentious, not stuffy.
Request the Ridge Suites for more privacy — they're further from the main lodge
Why It Matters
Consistently ranked among the world's top golf resorts for its Tom Doak-designed par-71 course perched 140m above the Pacific. Also home to Cape Sanctuary, New Zealand's largest privately-owned wildlife restoration project, and one of the world's most accessible mainland gannet colonies.
A 6,000-acre working sheep and beef farm perched on dramatic clifftops above Hawke's Bay — and somehow also one of the most polished luxury lodges in the Southern Hemisphere. The stone-clad cottages, open fireplaces, and farm dogs trotting past the windows are all real. So is the Tom Doak golf course hanging 140 metres above the Pacific. This is the kind of place that makes the 'refined countryside escape' tagline feel genuinely earned.
Where You'll Stay
4 room types available
Grand Ridge Junior Suite
Set on a skyline ridge rather than clustered near the lodge, the Grand Ridge suites feel more remote and private. At 63 sq m they're a meaningful step up in space from the Hilltop, with uninterrupted views across the farm to Hawke's Bay. The fireside lounge area and fully stocked wet mini-bar make these genuinely tempting rooms to spend an afternoon in. Flexible king or twin configuration works well for three guests.
King or Twin (flexible) · 63 sqm
Hawke's Bay Four Bedroom Villa
The largest accommodation on the property, set up as a standalone home for up to 8 guests. Four ensuite bedrooms, each with an open fireplace and private balcony overlooking the 6,000-acre estate. The communal areas are the real selling point: a large vaulted-ceiling lounge with stone fireplace, an open kitchen designed for a private chef, a sheltered courtyard, stone terrace, outdoor jacuzzi, and barbecue. This is the one to book if you're taking over the estate with a group.
King (x4)Hawke's Bay Two Bedroom Suite
Two full ensuite bedrooms under one roof, each with its own open fireplace, private balcony, and spacious bathroom. This is the step between the solo suites and the full four-bedroom villa — ideal for two couples, or a family wanting separate sleeping quarters with shared living space. The 'Suite Sojourn' offer (up to 30% off) applies to this category.
King (x2)Hilltop Junior Suite
The entry-level suite at Cape Kidnappers is perched directly above the main lodge — which means the Pacific Ocean views are immediate and unobstructed. At 47 sq m, these are not vast rooms, but they're thoughtfully proportioned: private balcony, king bed, twin vanities in the bathroom, and an oversized soaking tub. Two of these suites have an optional interconnecting smaller room, making them a good call for families or friends travelling together.
King · 47 sqmThe Property
Eat & Drink
5 venues on property
Restaurant
Spa & Wellness
Treatment Menu
On Property
How you'll actually spend your days.
An after-dark tour through Cape Sanctuary searching for kiwi in their natural habitat, plus a glowworm display. One of the more unusual and memorable experiences on the property.
A guided tour of Cape Sanctuary, New Zealand's largest privately-owned wildlife restoration project. The land was transformed from bare hillside to coastal forest; guests encounter native birds and hear the conservation story first-hand.
Forage fresh produce from the property's kitchen garden, then join the culinary team for an evening menu inspired by what was harvested. A hands-on way to understand how the dining program works.
Cape Kidnappers is home to the world's largest and most accessible mainland gannet colony. Guests can visit the nesting plateau to watch thousands of gannets up close. Seasonal: available September to May during nesting season.
Tom Doak-designed par-71 course completed in 2004, perched 140 metres above the Pacific. Cliff-edge fairways, vertiginous drops, and a ridge-and-valley layout that plays firm and fast. There's a full clubhouse, driving range, redesigned putting green, and PGA professionals in the pro shop. Consistently ranked among the world's top courses — non-staying guests can also book tee times.
A gourmet picnic hamper filled with curated local food and wine, taken out into the landscape. Can be set up near the gannet colony or other scenic spots on the farm.
A one-hour guided tour led by the farm's own shepherd, featuring traditional sheep shearing and mustering with Huntaway dogs. Works for all ages and is genuinely one of those unexpected highlights guests keep mentioning.
A guided stargazing experience under the southern hemisphere skies with resident astronomer Gary Sparks. The remote, light-pollution-free setting makes this genuinely impressive.
A Can-Am off-road vehicle tour departing at sunrise to the Black Reef gannet colony for breakfast, then continuing on to explore the lighthouse, Shark's Tooth Island, and Flat Rock. Gets you to parts of the 6,000-acre property otherwise inaccessible on foot.
A selection of marked walking tracks across the Cape Kidnappers property, offering views of cliffs, gorges, and diverse natural scenery. Hiking gear and binoculars are available from the lodge.
Guided tours through the vineyards and wineries of Hawke's Bay — a recognised Great Wine Capital of the World. Includes a visit to Trinity Hill and other producers in the Gimblett Gravels region. The Hunter Gatherer Tour variant covers tastings of exceptional local wines and gourmet food.
Amenities & Practical Info
The details that matter for planning.
A private wine cellar available as a special dining venue.
Full pro shop with premium golf apparel, Titleist and Callaway equipment, and PGA professionals on hand.
Redesigned putting green and driving range adjacent to the main course.
All suites include a minibar. Soft drinks and domestic beers are complimentary; spirits and wine are charged.
A 50-foot heated infinity pool with pool deck, shaded cabana, poolside minibar, and views out to the ocean horizon. One of the best spots on the property on a sunny afternoon.
Private transfer from Hawke's Bay Airport available through the concierge. Extra fee applies.
BUILD YOUR ROSEWOOD CAPE KIDNAPPERS PLAN
Rooms, dining, spa, and resort experiences — organized into one trip plan.
Start Planning