Getting Here and Hawke’s Bay Activities

There are a huge range of Hawke’s Bay activities to enjoy outside of your time at Cape South. See below for our top picks.

Walking and bathing: There are quiet lanes around Cape South for a short stroll or jog, and a secluded beach can be reached within half an hour’s walk over the adjoining fields. For long walks, head out to enjoy native bush and dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean along the Cape Kidnappers coastline or, within a short drive, beautiful nature walks at Maraetotara Falls and other nature reserves.
Ocean Beach and Waimarama provide unspoiled scenery and excellent swimming.

Gannet Colony: Cape Kidnappers is the home of the largest, mainland colony of gannets in the world. The 20,000 gannets at the Cape are members of the Booby family, sized midway between a sea gull and an albatross. Visitors to the colony will see adults and young nesting in rows, carrying out their daily routine. Due to the migratory nature of the birds, this activity is available from September until May.

Fishing: Our fly fishing trip, tailored to your individual needs and skill level, will give you access to the finest fishing in New Zealand. An experienced local guide with a four wheel drive vehicle will pick you up at Cape South and take you to one of more than 20 different rivers or lakes populated with wild brown and rainbow trout. We can arrange a true wilderness fishing experience by helicopter to remote rivers and streams that offer extraordinary trout fishing opportunities.

Golf: Cape Kidnappers provides a stunning setting to one of New Zealand’s top golf courses, designed by the legendary golf architect Tom Doak. The par 71 golf course measures 7,119 yards (6,510 meters) and will challenge golfers of all skill levels. Cape Kidnappers is ranked the 38th best golf course in the world by Golf Magazine.

Horse Treks: Horse trekking is available from Cape South and for all levels of ability. Your guide will choose a horse and trail that most suits your timeframe and level of experience. Cross-country trek over rolling hills with expansive ocean views. Beach ride along the long sandy beaches below Cape South; canter through the sea and feel the exhilaration of nature all around you. For further information please call Rochelle Brown 027 215 8844.

Mountain Bikes: Mountain bikes are available for guest use.

Scenic Flights: Heli Air Hawke’s Bay offers 2 scenic flights over Hawke’s Bay, lasting approximately 30 minutes each. Choose between a tour of the stunning coastline surrounding Cape Kidnappers or fly over Hawke’s Bay’s picturesque vineyards, orchards and farmland.

Maori Heritage Tours: The Maori people of New Zealand possess a proud and powerful heritage. Experience this culture first-hand with a visit to a local Marae (Maori meeting house). Take part in a Powhiri (Maori welcome) and drink in the words of the tribal elders as they share the captivating legends of their heritage. Half and full-day tours are available.
http://www.waimaramamaori.co.nz/

River Kayaking: Hawke’s Bay rivers are suitable for kayakers and rafters of varying skill levels. Experience an easy drift down a scenic river with warm water, great swimming holes, an abundance of bird life and rural scenery.

Nature’s Faire: The Mediterranean climate of Hawkes Bay gives rise to a bounty of produce from the land, sea and rivers. Tours can be arranged to give you the opportunity to meet the local producers of cheese, olive oils and orchard fruit and taste their products. There are two popular markets: Black Barn Grower’s Market every Saturday morning over summer and the Hawke’s Bay Farmer’s Market every Sunday morning.

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers provide tours of their 6,000 acre working sheep and cattle farm. Visits can be arranged that include a healthy lunch at the Home Farm.