Originally Posted by
CalifornianWanderer
Thanks listener2 and Groombridge!
Plus, it sounds like a trip to Kauri Cliffs or Cape Kidnappers is in order as well on the North Island. As they are both owned by the same person and are both golf resorts (we aren't big golfers frankly), I think we will only do one of them. Groombridge and listener2, did you do both or just one? Any thoughts on the merits of one versus the other?
Really appreciate your help!
I had heard others say that Kauri Cliffs and Capri Kidnappers are very similar experiences, so we chose just to do one, and chose Cape Kidnappers because:
A) it is newer, so I assumed the accommodation and facilities would be fresher. (They were impeccable.)
B) the golf course at Cape Kidnappers is higher rated
C) we wanted to see Napier, since I am a fan of Art Deco architecture
All this said, we loved it so much that I am dying to experience Kauri Cliffs, too, so I am sure whichever you pick you won't go wrong.
I wish we could also have tried Blanket Bay and Wharekauhau.
Each of the three we did try were world class hotel experiences, with a warmth and quality of service leagues ahead of most European and American hotels and resorts.