faq

Arrivals and departures
Check in from 12PM midday. Check out is 10am. Our office hours are: 9am to 12pm, and 4pm to 7pm.

Generally, we are very flexible. If you give us an approximate time of arrival / departure ahead of time that is outside these hours, we will either be there for you or make arrangements for someone else to take care of you.

How far is Stillwater from Wellington?
It usually takes 15 - 20 minutes by car, but during rush hour (7am - 9am and 4pm - 6pm) it may take 10 - 30 minutes longer. By train it is 25 minutes. The station is a few minutes' walk away.

Is there any Public Transport from the lodge?
The Lodge is only a few minutes walk from Mana Train Station. Trains leave every half hour and go until late at night.

People often leave their car at Stillwater Lodge and go to the city by train. Buses from Wanganui, Napier, Taupo, and Auckland stop nearby; however you must tell the bus company when you are making the booking. It is a "Requested" stop.

Is it easy to park in central Wellington City?
In the weekend it is easier and cheaper. Meter parks cost from NZ$4 per hour and there are plenty of Parking buildings but they can be more expensive than street parking (NZ$3 per hour upwards).

Do you provide parking at the Lodge?
At Stillwater Lodge we provide free off-street parking.

Are there things to do local to Stillwater Lodge?
Yes! There are many activities and things to do and see in any weather. We have good maps, brochures and information in the Lodge and are able to give good advice about the local attractions. Mana and the Pauatahanui areas have historical significance for the Maori and some historical sites are within a few minutes walking distance of the Lodge.

We also hire kayaks for canoeing on the inlet; a relatively safe harbour for such activity.

Can we get to the Bird Sanctuary on Kapiti Island?
Yes! We contact the Kapiti launch based at Paraparaumu Beach (20 minutes away by car) and can usually get permits for one or two people to visit the island.

Do you provide locked storage for valuables?
Yes! The private rooms are locked (by you) and we can provide safe storage for those in shared rooms.