Spend a night in a cosy cottage and meet a Kiwi in your own private nature reserve

Located in the Wellington region of the North Island, it is a New Zealand must do for anyone looking for the ultimate Aotearoa experience.

This package accommodates up to four guests, making it perfect for families or couples seeking adventure.

Book your unforgettable stay today and create lasting memories while supporting local conservation efforts at Ngā Manu!

The lounge in Theo's Cottage an overnight stay experience at Ngā Manu nature reserve in Waikanae on the Kāpiti coast.

Your stay begins with an early check-in at 1:30pm at our one-of-a-kind accommodation, Theo’s Cottage.

You'll find a welcome hamper with premium local products such as spirits, soft drinks, cheese and snacks. Perfect for enjoying on the veranda in the evening.

A group of Tuna (eel) and the rangers at Ngā Manu nature reserve giving the daily talk and feeding to a school group.

At 2pm, meet your first New Zealand native animal at our daily Tuna (eel) feed and talk, where Rangers explain the vital role of long- and short-finned eels as top freshwater predators and their deep cultural significance to Māori, who have traditionally harvested them as a staple food for generations.

A close up of the Tuatara in her enclosure at Ngā Manu nature reserve in Waikanae on the Kāpiti coast.

Be sure to set aside some time during your busy yet relaxing stay to explore our natural Tuatara terrariums and capture a photo as they sunbathe and feed, while also keeping an eye out for the native Pāteke duck, observing the kererū soaring gracefully above, and listening for the melodic song of the korimako (bellbird).

A guest of the Kiwi night encounter getting face to face with a Kiwi at Ngā Manu nature reserve in Waikanae on the Kāpiti coast.

As the sun sets and the reserve closes to the public, it becomes your private sanctuary for New Zealand’s most intimate kiwi experience. Your evening begins with a welcome talk by our rangers, sharing insights on the North Island brown kiwi—a flightless bird with spiky brown feathers, a long pale bill, and an excellent sense of smell. You’ll then venture into our kiwi house, a specially designed nocturnal habitat, where you’ll observe these rare birds foraging and exploring. This exclusive encounter offers a unique glimpse into the secretive world of Aotearoa’s most famous bird.

Until 9am the following morning you will enjoy exclusive private access to the Reserve, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of New Zealand’s unique wildlife by taking a magical nighttime forest walk.

The bridges and paths built to make Ngā Manu an accessible experience for everyone in Waikanae on the Kāpiti coast

Wake up to the serene beauty of Ngā Manu, with the dawn chorus of Tui, Korimako (Bellbird) and other native birds greeting the new day. As the sun rises over the reserve, the forest comes alive with vibrant birdsongs, creating a truly magical start to your morning in the heart of nature.

The Rangers feeding and playing with the Kea at Ngā Manu nature reserve in Waikanae on the Kāpiti coast.

Enjoy a delightful continental breakfast with local produce before a relaxed late checkout at 11am.

But before you go, we have a special treat for you! Join us for an exclusive 40-minute native bird close encounter, where you’ll meet our cheeky Kākā, vibrant Kākāriki, playful Kea, and rare, endangered Whio - an unforgettable way to wrap up your stay!

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what visitors say about their ultimate Kiwi experience

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.
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.
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.