This top attraction in Rotorua's thermal wonderland has been enchanting families of all ages for over 80 years. Set amongst Native forest, you can get up close and personal with native lizards like skinks and geckos and the ancestor of the mighty dinosaurs – the Tuatara which has survived for over 100 million years.
There are as many as sixteen different breeds of native birds to be found in the park. From Paradise ducks to an owl-like Morepork, a cheeky and very inquisitive kea and the most iconic of birds – the Kiwi. Being a nocturnal animal, the latter has its own house and encounter. It's New Zealand's only 'open 2 view' kiwi rearing facility and guided tours are available at an extra cost. Check at reception for more detail.
One of the most popular animals are the different varieties of trout which are housed in sparklingly clear spring fed pools. Rainbow Springs has Tiger, Rainbow and Brown Trout which can be fed. Bags of food are available at reception. They also have long finned eels on display.
A hit with the kids is the petting farm. Here they can feed and pat sheep, pigs and donkeys and see parikeets, swans and others. Then it's off to the café for a fuel up or a picnic lunch on the lawn and some well earned rest after all that tramping thorough native Kauri and Rimu forests.
Rainbow Springs Wildlife Park is highly recommended for families situated just north of the city of Rotorua on 22 acres (8.3 hectares) of parkland. Expect to spend about 2 or 3 hours here.
Fairy Springs Road, In Nearby Ngongotaha Phone: +64 7 350 0440
