Stay at Theo's Cottage
Stay in nature. Wake to birdsong.
Tucked beside the pond within Ngā Manu Nature Reserve, Theo's Cottage offers a peaceful and memorable overnight stay surrounded by native forest, birdsong and nature.
With space for up to four guests, the cottage is a private and comfortable base for exploring the Kāpiti Coast, and Wellington is less than an hour away.
Theo’s Cottage is a very different kind of getaway. After the Reserve closes to the public, the experience changes. The paths become quiet, the forest comes alive with nocturnal sounds, and you can enjoy the rare feeling of having this special place largely to yourself.
Relax on the deck beside the pond, listen for ruru and kiwi at dusk or take your time exploring the Reserve before the gates open in the morning.
Make your stay your own
You can keep things simple and enjoy a peaceful night surrounded by nature or add a Ngā Manu experience to your stay.
Experiences may include a Kiwi Night Encounter, Native Bird Close Encounter or other opportunities to discover the wildlife and conservation work of the Reserve.
For the ultimate overnight experience, our Ultimate Overnight Kiwi Experience combines a stay at Theo's Cottage with a private after-hours experience of the Reserve.
What's included
- Self-contained accommodation for up to four guests
- Comfortable living and sleeping spaces
- Kitchen facilities
- Bathroom
- Laundry facilities
- Outdoor deck overlooking the Reserve
- Secure Parking
Check-in: 2–4.30pm
Check-out: 11am









what visitors say about their overnight experience at Ngā Manu
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Sue T via Google
Staying at Theo's cottage was a totally unique experience. Having a whole bird sanctuary to yourself is quite a treat that our whole family enjoyed. The staff were very friendly and helpful and the double bed was super comfy. The cottage stayed warm too. Location should get an extra star.
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Logan Smith via Google
For the price this is a deal that is absolutely worth it. Staying at the venue offers such a unique experience of being able to tour the reserve out of hours. We enjoyed jogging the bushwalk early in the morning and sipping the morning coffee out on the deck while being treated to Tui flybys.
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Patsy Matheson via Google
Tēnei te reo mihi ki a koutou o Ngā Manu. We were so lucky to stay at Theo's cottage and have the kiwi experience. The kaimahi were warm and knowledgeable and guided us so well. We got to see 3 kiwi and a ruru in a short time. A truly once in a lifetime experience. We are so grateful to the team (and all the manu) at Ngā Manu.
Book Theo's Cottage
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FAQs
How many people can stay at Theo's Cottage?
Theo's Cottage accommodates up to four guests, making it ideal for couples, families or a small group wanting to enjoy a relaxing stay surrounded by nature. Sleeping arrangements include a Super King bed (or two singles) and a double pull-out sofa.
What time can we check in and check out?
Standard check-in is between 2pm and 4.30pm, with check-out by 11am.
Late check-in can be arranged for an additional fee. Please contact us before booking or as early as possible before your stay to discuss your arrival time.
What facilities are available at Theo's Cottage?
Theo's Cottage has everything you need for a comfortable overnight stay, including a small kitchen with a hotplate, air fryer oven, microwave, cooking utensils and crockery. A washing machine and dryer are also provided.
All linen is provided, so you can simply arrive and settle in.
Can we explore Ngā Manu after the Reserve closes?
Staying at Theo's Cottage gives you a special opportunity to experience the Reserve outside normal visitor hours.
As the day visitors leave, the Reserve becomes a different place. Listen for ruru at dusk, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and experience the sights and sounds of nature after dark.
Does staying at Theo's Cottage include a kiwi encounter?
A stay at Theo's Cottage does not automatically include a Kiwi Night Encounter. You can arrange for this to be added to your booking.
You could also choose our Ultimate Overnight Kiwi Experience, which combines a stay at Theo's Cottage with a beautiful food hamper, a light breakfast and three experiences: Eel feeding, Kiwi Night Encounter and Native Bird Close Encounter.
Is Theo's Cottage suitable for a longer stay?
Yes. With space for up to four guests, kitchen and laundry facilities, Theo's Cottage can work well for more than just a single night.
It's a peaceful base for exploring Ngā Manu and the wider Kāpiti Coast, while giving you the chance to slow down and spend more time in nature.