Enjoy exclusive after-hours access to a private nature reserve, cosy overnight accommodation, and an unforgettable kiwi encounter.

Stay overnight inside a working conservation reserve and experience New Zealand wildlife after dark — including one of the country’s most intimate kiwi encounters.

Unlike traditional accommodation or large-scale wildlife attractions, Theo’s Cottage offers exclusive after-hours access to Ngā Manu Nature Reserve, allowing you to experience the forest at its most magical — from dusk kiwi encounters to the dawn chorus of native birds.

Located just 45 minutes north of Wellington, this all-inclusive experience combines boutique accommodation, conservation storytelling, and unforgettable close encounters with some of Aotearoa’s most iconic wildlife.

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

Your experience begins with an early 1:30pm check-in at Theo’s Cottage — our cosy lakeside accommodation nestled within Ngā Manu Nature Reserve. On arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a hamper of premium local treats including artisan cheese, snacks, and refreshments, perfect for enjoying on the verandah as the reserve settles into evening.

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

Learn about the remarkable lifecycle of New Zealand’s long- and short-finned eels, their role as top freshwater predators, and their deep cultural significance to Māori.

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 spot them basking in the sun or feeding, 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
distinctive shaggy 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.

As an overnight guest, you’ll experience Ngā Manu in its most peaceful hours — after the reserve has closed to the public and before visitors arrive the following morning. Enjoy the rare opportunity to explore the forest after dark on a torchlit walk, then wake to the magical dawn chorus of native birds echoing through the reserve.

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 locally produced continental breakfast 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 native waterfowl - 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.