Cape Kidnappers

Cape Kidnappers

When you come to New Zealand, you have to talk about Cape Kidnappers. There’s a well-known saying in New Zealand: “If you haven’t been to Cape Kidnappers, you haven’t really been to New Zealand,” which shows just how famous this place is. Cape Kidnappers is a sandstone headland located in the southeast of Hawke’s Bay, perched on cliffs 140 meters above sea level and located 20 kilometers from Napier, offering breathtaking scenery.

Most people find the name of Cape Kidnappers quite puzzling — why would such a nice place have such a strange name? There’s actually a story behind it. It’s said that when Captain Cook visited the area, local Māori attempted to kidnap one of his crew members, after which Captain Cook named the place Cape Kidnappers. Cape Kidnappers is not only a natural sports venue but also a fascinating tourist destination. Its world-renowned Cape Kidnappers Golf Course is hailed as “the most challenging golf course in the world,” attracting golf enthusiasts from all over the globe. Cape Kidnappers is also one of the best places to see gannets. The Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony is the largest mainland gannet colony in the world, home to around 17,000 gannets each year, creating a truly spectacular sight.

Cape Kidnappers

Must-visit reason: One of New Zealand’s most popular tourist attractions

Continent where the attraction is located: Oceania

Country/Region where the attraction is located: New Zealand

Province/State where the attraction is located: Hawke’s Bay Region