7 Nature & Wildlife Areas in Rotorua District That You Shouldn't Miss

Paradise Valley Springs is open every day of the year, including all public holidays, from 8.00am until dark with last ticket sales at 5.00pm. Lion Feeding is every day at 2.30pm and our Kea and Possum Feeding happens every day at 3.00pm. The park is set in a beautiful native bush covered setting, and has excellent wide walkways throughout that are well suited for strollers and wheelchairs. We have bags of Trout or Animal Food available for $2 per bag if they would like to hand-feed some of the animals, or throw food to the trout. Your time in Paradise will include getting up close and personal with our New Zealand Birds, Trout and Wildlife. We also have our Rainforest Treetops Walkway hidden six metres high amongst mature native trees and bush. You will also be able to view our Lion Pride in their enclosure at any time of the day.

Get back to nature with the unparalleled peace and serenity that is Hamurana Springs. Feel the troubles of the modern world disappear as you journey through lush, untouched landscape on an easy, low impact streamside walk suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Originally a tribal settlement today it is an untouched nature park and wildlife refuge, which combined with the manaakitanga (hospitality) of the tangata whenua (people of the land) make Hamurana Springs a truly magical experience. Come and experience the culture, history, serenity and spirit that is Hamurana Springs.

Explore spectacular activity in the world’s youngest geothermal system on a self-guided walking tour at Waimangu Volcanic Valley. We offer a range of options for all abilities and ambitions varying in length from our short 1.5km highlights walk to a 4.5km hike including an invigorating climb over Mount Haszard for astonishing panoramic views. Discover Frying Pan Lake, one of the largest hot water springs in the World and mysterious, beautiful Inferno Crater Lake which rises and falls as it heats and cools. See rare and unusual plants that have adapted to grow in the warm geothermal landscape and enjoy the abundance of native birdlife around Lake Rotomahana. Opt for an additional 45 minute cruise around the tranquil waters of Lake Rotomahana to see nature, birdlife and geothermal activity not accessible by foot. Relax and listen to the full historical commentary throughout cruise. Enjoy a much needed rest and take advantage of the shuttle bus at the end of your tour.

New Zealand's only geothermal mud bath complex where visitors can immerse themselves in the silky smooth warm geothermal mud and sulphurous waters of the Hell's Gate Geothermal Reserve that have been used by the Maori for more than 700 years for healing and wellbeing. A unique iconic New Zealand visitor experience.

Set among the native trees and beautiful forests of Rotorua, Rainbow Springs Nature Park offers a fun-filled and action-packed day out for the whole family. Learn about New Zealand's fascinating natural history and meet the interesting creatures who call this great land of ours home! Learn, see discover with our guided tours which allow you to get closer than ever to some of our favourite park residents including trout, reptiles, and native birds. You can also meet kiwi, New Zealand's iconic native bird! Rainbow Springs is home to the worlds most successful kiwi hatchery, and during your visit you can join a behind the scenes tour of The National Kiwi Hatchery for a unique chance to experience a working kiwi hatchery! Have endless fun discovering our awesome new Playscapes and Waterplay area and make sure to jump aboard the Big Splash for a thrilling ride!