National Kiwi Hatchery - Kiwi Encounter Guided Tour

Rotorua , New Zealand

National Kiwi Hatchery - Kiwi Encounter Guided Tour

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(187 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

See conservation in action at the most successful kiwi hatchery in the world!

The National Kiwi Hatchery is the national leader in kiwi husbandry, egg incubation systems, hatching techniques and kiwi chick rearing. During your guided tour of the National Kiwi Hatchery you’ll get to learn about New Zealand's renowned kiwi conservation program which has successfully hatched over 2,500 kiwi chicks. You’ll get to explore the interactive kiwi burrow, learn about egg incubation and hatching techniques. And see kiwi roam and forage in the Nocturnal House.

An educational, thought-provoking and truly unique experience, you'll get to see how we're helping kiwi at the largest and most successful kiwi hatchery in the world.

A non-for profit organisation, your ticket entry fee goes straight back to our kiwi hatching programme.

Available options

National Kiwi Hatchery - Kiwi Encounter Guided Tour

What's included

The chance to witness the kiwi chicks getting a health check, being weighed or fed (Sep to March)

Insight into an internationally renowned kiwi conservation programme

1 hour National Kiwi Hatchery guided experience in a state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility.

Return shuttle to the facility from the check-in zone at the Agrodome

See kiwi roam in our purpose-built nocturnal enclosure

Check out the interactive and immersive kiwi burrow experience

Detailed itinerary

See conservation in action at one of the largest and most successful kiwi hatchery in the world!

The National Kiwi Hatchery is the national leader in kiwi husbandry, egg incubation systems, hatching techniques and kiwi chick rearing. When you join one of our experiences, you'll get to see kiwi eggs being incubated, the hatching process and newly hatched kiwi chicks.

Hatching season is September and March and the highest chance for you to see kiwi eggs and chicks. Outside of these months you will have chance to observe our resident adult kiwi foraging in our Nocturnal House.

Your ticket entry goes straight back to our kiwi hatching program.

The National Kiwi Hatchery is located at the Agrodome, Rotorua.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

56 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

131 reviews

5★

110

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Only suitable for 5 years and above

The facility is located onsite at the Agrodome

Hatching season is September to March. Outside of these dates, you may not see a Kiwi chick or egg, but still see live Kiwi in the norcturnal house

Important notes

This ticket provides direct entry into the attraction

About Rotorua

Rotorua is renowned for its geothermal activity, Maori culture, and stunning natural landscapes. The city is a hub for geothermal wonders, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pools, making it a unique and appealing destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Te Puia

Te Puia is a geothermal park and cultural center showcasing Maori culture and geothermal activity. Visitors can see geysers, mud pools, and traditional Maori performances.

Nature/Cultural 2-3 hours $45-60 NZD

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

This geothermal park features colorful hot springs, geysers, and bubbling mud pools. It's one of the most visited attractions in Rotorua.

Nature 2-3 hours $38 NZD

Redwoods Treewalk

A unique night walk through the Redwoods forest on illuminated platforms. The experience offers a magical view of the towering trees and the night sky.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours $50-70 NZD

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

A traditional Maori feast cooked in an earth oven using geothermal heat. The meal typically includes meat, kumara (sweet potato), and vegetables.

Dinner Can be adapted for vegetarian and vegan diets

Whitebait Fritters

A delicacy made from tiny whitebait fish, mixed with egg and fried into a fritter. It's a popular dish in the region.

Lunch Contains fish

Rewena Bread

A traditional Maori bread made from fermented potato and flour, cooked in a hangi or oven.

Breakfast/Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Ziplining Mountain biking White water rafting Black water rafting Spa treatments Hot spring soaking Scenic walks Maori cultural experiences

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Rotorua, offering warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and exploring the geothermal attractions.

21-25°C 70-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rotorua is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it's always important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited services or tours
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas

Getting there

By air

Rotorua Regional Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Rotorua Bus Depot

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services to key locations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Rotorua Central Ohinemutu

Day trips

Waitomo Caves

100 km from Rotorua • Full day

The Waitomo Caves are famous for their stunning limestone formations and glowworm caves. Visitors can take guided tours through the caves and experience the magical glowworm displays.

Taupo

60 km from Rotorua • Half day to full day

Taupo is a lakeside town known for its stunning natural beauty and adventure activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and exploring the nearby geothermal parks.

Festivals

Rotorua Festival of Lights • Late November to early January

Pro tips

Visit geothermal parks early in the morning to avoid crowds and see the geysers erupt
Book cultural experiences and tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons
Try local Maori cuisine, such as hangi and rewena bread, for an authentic Rotorua experience
Pack layered clothing, as the weather can change quickly and geothermal activity can make the air feel warmer
Use the AT HOP card for discounted fares on public transport