THE FACTS ABOUT THE FARM AT CAPE KIDNAPPERS

New Zealand

When US financier Julian Robertson's Kauri Cliffs opened on New Zealand's North Island in 2001, it quickly earned a reputation as one of the world's best golf courses with a super-luxury lodge attached. Celebrate the difference: its new sister property, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, further south in the renowned Hawke's Bay wine region, will surely become known as a super-luxury lodge with the world's 27th-best golf course attached. It's just that there's so much more to do on the 6,000 acres than play a round. You can (and must) say hello to the world's largest mainland colony of gannets, and look forward to seeing the endangered native kiwi birds and tuatara lizards which Robertson is gradually reintroducing. The lodge is spectacular, built on a vast scale and to a design that blends rustic chic with a Californian-resort feel. There's a room for every purpose here, whether you need a business meeting, a front-row seat at one of the massive fireplaces, a quiet nook with a stunning ocean view, brunch in the light-drenched loggia or a drink on the balcony of one of the 22 suites decorated in soothing tones of cream and honey. The main dining room might seem a little formal at first, but everyone loosens up once the light, stylish and highly accomplished modern food from chef Dale Gartland arrives. WHEN TO GO Spring, summer or autumn. ROOM TO BOOK One of the Lodge Suites, with views to the north and the east. 448 Clifton Road, Te Awanga, Hawkes Bay (00 64 6 875 1900; www.capekidnappers.com). Hilltop Suites from NZ$900 (about £370); Lodge Suites from about £440 Find out more about New Zealand in our destination guide