Where Tourism Meets Sustainability
Ngā Manu Nature Reserve has been a treasured Kāpiti sanctuary for 50 years, blending conservation with eco-tourism. With a new sustainability strategy, carbon-neutral goals, and enhanced visitor experiences, the reserve is protecting native wildlife while inspiring others to connect with nature. A multi-million-dollar upgrade will further enrich its impact.
Ngā Manu Nature Reserve has been one of Kāpiti’s most precious taonga since opening in Waikanae 50 years ago.
Spanning fourteen hectares of coastal lowland swamp forest, the sanctuary is rich with native flora and fauna, managed by a passionate team working tirelessly to preserve local wildlife.
General manager Anna Hawea-McKenzie Hawea joined in April 2022, bringing management experience from London, Australia, and New Zealand.
She wanted to help enhance visitor experiences and strengthen Ngā Manu's position as a sustainable ecotourism business, while fostering ties with local mana whenua.
“We understand the importance of acting with urgency to contribute to Aotearoa’s transition to a net zero carbon economy,” says Anna, who helped secure a 2023 Silver Sustainable Tourism Business Award.
Since relaunching guided tours in October 2022, including the Native Bird Close Encounter and Kiwi Night Encounter, income from tours has tripled.
“We understand the importance of acting with urgency to contribute to Aotearoa’s transition to a net zero carbon economy”
A Sustainability Strategy launched in 2023 commits to carbon neutrality and becoming a waste-free eco-tourism business within five years.
Efforts to date include introducing recycling facilities, replacing a diesel wildlife ambulance with an electric vehicle, and installing solar panels - projected to save $10,000 annually.
Ngā Manu, meaning “The Birds” in te reo Māori, continues its successful breeding programs, with help from local volunteers.
In 2023, the sanctuary produced 12 pāteke ducklings and 11 Wellington Barking Green Geckos.
The reserve is also focused on preserving threatened native plants like pua o te Rēinga and Pikirangi, recently establishing a rare plant nursery.
To support expansion, Kāpiti Coast District Council is backing a multi-million-dollar Visitor Experience Development Project, set to introduce 10 interactive zones.
Upgrades include an eel feeding pond and a bush lookout tower to educate visitors about local ecosystems.
“Connecting people to nature has always been the kaupapa for Ngā Manu,” Anna concludes. “It’s all about uplifting the end-to-end visitor experience for people; whether it's their first visit or they’re returning again and again.”
