Southern Crossings’ General Manager, Steven Pleciak recently visited the “Farm at Cape Kidnappers”. Opened in November 2007, Cape Kidnappers sets a new benchmark for New Zealand’s luxury lodges.
Landing by commercial plane at Napier Airport – gateway to the Hawke’s Bay wine region, Cape Kidnappers is an easy 45 minute drive dissecting the Art Deco town of Napier. On this occasion however, the drive took considerably longer as I stopped to explore some of the inviting waterfront cafes and excellent antique shops en route.
Once departing the Napier waterfront at the village of Clive, it is only a short drive to the entrance of Cape Kidnappers. The discreet driveway meanders over 8km alongside picturesque streams and over pastoral valleys before rising through pine plantations overlooking the Pacific Ocean, some 800ft below. Birds, sheep and enclaves of native forest impress long before the lodge looms on the hilltop above.
The first sign of the lodge comes after driving through the 13km long “predator fence” – a labour of love and soon set to become an attraction in itself with a planned kiwi bird release on the property.
The low-key exterior of “the Farm” belies the true understated luxury within. Comfort and class, the guest suites and common areas are decorated with rustic style and original artworks.
The generously proportioned suites come in three categories, all with private balcony and stunning views. The Hilltop suites, a steepish but not long or arduous walk, afford the most commanding vistas. Simple and tasteful décor invites you to relax, whilst families are welcomed by the interconnecting ‘second bedroom’ suites.
The Lodge and Ridge suites are in another league altogether. Spacious entrance halls ensure complete privacy in the oversized bedrooms which also include lashings of lounge furnishings and each open to a wide balcony with comfortable seating from which to enjoy the view. Extra large wardrobe space is complimented by a bathroom with clean lines and luxury appointments.
The sumptuous Owners Cottage is a true marvel with four en-suite bedrooms and a grand living and dining space which opens on to a private terrace with outdoor Jacuzzi and commanding Pacific Ocean views. It is simply inspiring yet the thoughtful little homely touches ensure a stay in the Owners Cottage is just as welcoming as the other lodge facilities.
Throughout all areas of the property, the mostly local staff are welcoming yet unobtrusive with a high degree of warmth and a genuine desire to please.
The range of formal and private dining - both indoors and out, the well stocked wine cellar and comfortable sitting areas provide for an outstanding array of options that welcome, envelop and provide for a treat of the senses.
During my stay, the daily changing menu offered a delicious selection of locally farmed quail, fresh caught fish as well as prime New Zealand lamb and beef. Meals feel more moderate in proportion when compared with other lodges and desserts are more of a tasting rather than an over-indulgence. Breakfast, pre-dinner hors d’oeuvres and a 3 course dinner are all included in the tariff.
The centrally located and heated outdoor infinity pool, jacuzzi, and cabana deserve special mention. With sweeping views of the countryside below this is a wonderful place to relax after a day exploring this diverse region of New Zealand’s finest wine and gourmet food.
The complimentary farm tour was an unexpected highlight, involving one of the three black Land Rover Discoveries being driven to the four corners of the estate – which, like its sister property, Kauri Cliffs ontinues to operate as a working sheep and cattle station. The tour also takes in a visit to the largest and most accessible gannet colony in the world. This opportunity to get so close to these magnificent birds (September to May) was a real treat. Along the way, the tour also showcases some of the estate’s most stunning picnic spots – encouraging guests to return along one of countless country walks with a deliciously provisioned picnic hamper.
No mention of golf I hear you say? As far as the lodge facilities are concerned there is no need to. For golfers, the fact that one of the world’s great golf courses lies in waiting, hidden away from view, makes Cape Kidnappers a must. For those who don’t wish to partake in the frustrating game, there are numerous other diversions including a state of the art fitness centre, onsite day spa and well stocked library; quad bikes and mountain bikes; private beaches and guided walking tours. However, as for the merits of the golf course - ranked amongst the top 50 in the world - that deserves another report altogether.
A simply stunning achievement and one that will only get better with time sums up the Cape Kidnappers experience; treat yourself and the memories will be enjoyed for a long time to come.