Ngā Manu Mural in the Making

Watch artist Theo Arraj bring a new mural to life

This spring, Ngā Manu’s Visitor Centre will become a living canvas as Kāpiti artist Theo Arraj paints a vibrant new mural celebrating the native wildlife, forest, and wetlands that make our reserve so special.

Theo will be working live across both weekends of the 2025 Kāpiti Arts Trail. Visitors are invited to stop by, meet the artist, and watch the mural unfold. While Ngā Manu isn’t an official Arts Trail stop, it’s the perfect chance to see creativity and conservation come together.

Make a day of it

After you’ve seen the mural in progress:

• Explore the forest and wetlands trails
• Meet kiwi, tuatara, and our resident eels
• Relax in the picnic area or browse the gift shop

Standard entry fees apply.Follow Ngā Manu on Facebook and Instagram for updates as the mural takes shape.

‘Colour It Like Theo’ – Children’s Colouring Competition

To mark the occasion, we’re launchingColour It Like Theo, a colouring competition for tamariki inspired by Theo’s mural design.Download the colouring sheet from our website or pick up a printed copy at the Visitor Centre, add your creative touch, and drop your entry back to Ngā Manu before Sunday 9 November.

Winners will be announced by Theo on the final day of the Arts Trail, with prizes for each age group.

Age Groups & prizes

6 years & under:
Large soft plush Antics Kākā with sound, magic colour-in pencil case

7–9 years:
Ranger Experience at Ngā Manu + Moana Road Watercolour Art Set & Notebook

10 years & over:
Kiwi Night Encounter (1 child + 1 accompanying adult)
+ Kiwi Hot Water Bottle + Moana Road Watercolour Notebook