New Zealand's best Kiwi overnight experience
Spend a night in a cosy cottage and meet a Kiwi in your own private nature reserve
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.
At 2 PM, 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.
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).
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.
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.
Enjoy a delightful continental breakfast with local produce before a relaxed late checkout at 11 AM.
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!
what visitors say about their ultimate Kiwi experience