Courses / Hawke's Bay
Cape Kidnappers
Designed by Tom Doak and opened in 2004, Cape Kidnappers has remained firmly within the World Top 100 since its inception. Spread across more than 2,500 hectares of coastal farmland in Hawke’s Bay, the course traverses a series of ridges and valleys that culminate in a dramatic headland above the Pacific Ocean.
The opening holes move inland through broad, undulating terrain, where Doak’s routing and green complexes are among his most refined, rewarding thoughtful positioning and precise approach play. From there, the course gradually builds towards the coastline, where a series of holes occupy cliff edges more than 140 metres above the ocean.
“Looking back down the eighth hole towards the seventh fairway. This was a pivotal stretch in the course’s construction, linking the ocean views of the sixth hole with the returning ninth hole and clubhouse. It required more earthworks than any stretch of holes, yet the finished terrain remains severe and dramatic.” Mat Perry, Golf In New Zealand, PGA Professional host.
“Aptly named ‘Split’, the par-four fifth provides the first glimpse of the Pacific Ocean, 400 feet below. The central bunkers divide the fairway, and the day’s flag position should dictate the route from the tee. Choose the wrong side and the approach becomes considerably more difficult.” Paul Parlane, Golf In New Zealand, PGA Professional host.
During the PGA Tour’s Kiwi Challenge, Anthony Kim hit an approach into ‘Pimple’, the par-four 14th, that Tom Doak later described as the best shot he had ever seen hit on one of his own courses.
Despite its scale, the design relies more on positioning than power, with approach angles and strategic decision-making shaping the experience throughout. It is a course of remarkable contrast, where architecture and landscape remain in complete harmony.