Nga Manu is wildlife reserve committed to the preservation and conservation of New Zealand native flora and fauna, and strengthening the connection between people and nature through education. The reserve consists of bird and reptile enclosures, open lawn areas, ponds, a native forest walk and a nocturnal house for kiwi as well as offers many daily wildlife tour options. The site is accessible with wide gravel pathways and there are mobility aids free to use. There are plenty of picnic tables, seats and a barbecue facility dotted throughout the Reserve. For many children the lasting memory of a trip to Ngā Manu will be the greeting they received from our ducks and pukeko or watching the eel talk and feeding. Only 45 minutes’ drive north from downtown Wellington or come by train. The new Kāpiti cycle-way supplies an access point near-by for those who are travelling by bike.

Theo's Cottage is a snug self-contained wooden cottage located inside the nature reserve. The cottage comfortably sleeps a maximum of 4 people, with the option of either 2 single beds or 1 super-king in one bedroom and a double pull out couch. The cottage sits on the edge of the main pond, and visitors have the privilege of having the Reserve dawn and dusk bird choruses as you go to sleep and as you wake up. Visitors have the reserve all to yourself after hours and can join in the Kiwi Night Encounter which is an intimate kiwi experience which runs for 90 minutes and begins at dusk. The reserve is only a five-minute drive from shops, bakery, takeaway, cafes/bars, outdoor summer pool, and stunning beach and river experiences, making for a perfect get-away. Onsite facilities include: A super-king or 2 single beds in a separate bedroom. A double sofa-bed in the living area. All bedding and towels provided. Open plan living, dining and kitchenette with TV. Small covered deck. Kitchenette with fridge, microwave, kettle, toaster, and benchtop cookware. Bathroom with shower. Laundry Ample secure parking. Free wifi. *Extra fees apply for arrivals between 5pm and 9pm.