
Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre
Experience intimate encounters with New Zealand's rare birds of prey, supporting vital conservation efforts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See birds in action!

Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre
Best Time
See birds in action!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience intimate encounters with New Zealand's rare birds of prey, supporting vital conservation efforts.
"Hands down the best experience I have had! As a Kiwi, this was an incredibly spiritual experience."

🐦 Bird Landing Experience
Be prepared for birds to land on you! It's a highlight for many visitors. :raised_hands:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera! You'll get amazing close-up shots of these incredible birds. :camerawithflash:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Karearea Falcon Encounter
Flight of the Falcon Show
Witness the incredible agility of the rare Karearea falcon as it flies and lands on gloved handlers, sometimes even visitors!

Behind-the-Scenes Experience
Special Experience Add-on
Get a personal introduction to a specific bird, like Star the falcon, and learn about their individual stories and care.

Meet Native Birds of Prey
Various Show Areas
See and learn about a variety of New Zealand's magnificent birds of prey up close.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Up-Close Encounters
Conservation Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wingspan Bird of Prey Trust - if you're near Rotorua I can't recommend it highly enough!
🐦 Bird Landing Experience
Be prepared for birds to land on you! It's a highlight for many visitors. :raised_hands:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera! You'll get amazing close-up shots of these incredible birds. :camerawithflash:
Rusty, 3mth old Karearea at Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre, Rotorua.
Is there any bird century so i can see live
💖 Support Conservation
Your visit directly aids bird conservation efforts. Consider a donation or gift shop purchase. :heart:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be standing and walking around, so wear comfy shoes for the shows and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
NZ Falcon/ Kārearea
Tips
from all over the internet
🐦 Bird Landing Experience
Be prepared for birds to land on you! It's a highlight for many visitors. :raised_hands:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera! You'll get amazing close-up shots of these incredible birds. :camerawithflash:
💖 Support Conservation
Your visit directly aids bird conservation efforts. Consider a donation or gift shop purchase. :heart:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be standing and walking around, so wear comfy shoes for the shows and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wingspan for its incredibly intimate and educational encounters with native birds of prey. The passionate staff and the unique opportunity for birds to land on visitors are major highlights, creating unforgettable experiences. While the focus is on conservation, the shows are engaging for all ages, making it a highly recommended destination.
"My friend and I had a wonderful time at the Birds of Prey show on September 19th! The team working here are very knowledgeable and passionate, and they let you see their birds up close! Supporting Wingspan supports birds of Prey native to NZ. I highly recommend coming by if you're in the area."
Halee Jorgensen
"Hands down the best experience I have had! As a Kiwi, this was an incredibly spiritual experience. To be in the presence of the karearea was an honour; to have such an up close, personal encounter is unheard off. My 8YO nephew proclaimed it was "better than the jet boat ride!"
The team were incredible and I 10/10 recommend this experience!"
Alana Fluit
"What an incredible experience this was. My partner and I booked the flight of the falcon show and behind the scenes experience with Star the falcon. I think anyone that comes here will love it, but I have to confess I am a bird fan and I was blown away by getting to be up close and personal with a beautiful falcon. The staff are incredible and do absolutely crucial work in conservation and advocacy. Wish I had booked a second visit!!! Thank you so much wingspan, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you do."
Tim Beech
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wingspan is located near Rotorua, New Zealand. Many visitors drive, as it's a popular day trip destination. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes or considering a taxi/rideshare service from Rotorua is advisable. Car parking is generally available on-site.
The centre is generally accessible, with pathways around the main show areas. It's always a good idea to contact Wingspan directly to discuss specific accessibility needs before your visit to ensure a comfortable experience.
Wingspan typically operates during specific hours, often coinciding with their bird shows. It's crucial to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening times and show schedules, as these can vary seasonally.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary, and there are often different ticket options, including general entry and special experiences like 'Flight of the Falcon' or behind-the-scenes tours. It's best to check the official Wingspan website for current pricing and to book tickets in advance, especially for popular times.
While walk-ins may be possible, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for the 'Flight of the Falcon' show or behind-the-scenes experiences. This ensures you secure your spot and avoid disappointment, as shows can sell out.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or families is usually available on the Wingspan website. Keep an eye out for any special offers or package deals that might be running.
General admission typically grants you access to the grounds and the main bird of prey shows. For more intimate encounters or specialized experiences, additional bookings and fees usually apply.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged at Wingspan! You'll have fantastic opportunities to capture stunning close-ups of the birds. Remember to be respectful of the birds and handlers.
The main show arena offers excellent vantage points for capturing birds in flight. For unique shots, consider the behind-the-scenes experiences where you can get closer to individual birds.
It's generally advised to avoid using flash photography, as it can startle or distress the birds. Always observe the birds' reactions and follow any specific instructions from the handlers.
🎫 ❤️ Visitor Experience
The 'Flight of the Falcon' show is a highlight, showcasing the incredible speed and agility of the Karearea falcon. Visitors often have the unique opportunity for the falcon to land on their glove or even their head, making for an unforgettable experience.
A behind-the-scenes tour offers a more personal encounter with the birds. You'll learn about their individual care, rehabilitation, and conservation stories, often with direct interaction with a specific bird like Star the falcon.
Absolutely! Wingspan is a fantastic experience for all ages. Children are often thrilled by the close encounters with the birds, and it's a great educational opportunity about native wildlife.
Wingspan is dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of New Zealand's native birds of prey. They work to protect endangered species, educate the public, and release rehabilitated birds back into the wild.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a behind-the-scenes experience for an even more personal touch, allowing your children to connect with a specific bird. It's a fantastic way to spark an interest in wildlife and conservation from a young age. The gift shop also offers souvenirs that kids will love.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Bird Lovers
The 'Flight of the Falcon' show is a highlight, showcasing incredible aerial displays. The behind-the-scenes tours offer a deeper understanding of the birds' lives and the rehabilitation efforts. Many visitors rave about the 'spiritual' and 'honouring' experience of being in the presence of these magnificent creatures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Karearea Falcon
These encounters are not just for show; they are part of Wingspan's mission to foster a deeper connection between people and these magnificent birds. By allowing controlled, up-close interactions, they aim to inspire a greater appreciation and commitment to the conservation of the Karearea and other native raptors. The experience is often described as 'spiritual' and 'unforgettable,' highlighting the profound impact these encounters can have.
It's important to remember that the Karearea is a wild animal, and these interactions are carefully managed by experienced professionals. The success of these encounters underscores the vital conservation work being done at Wingspan, ensuring the future of this endangered species.
Conservation and Rehabilitation Efforts
The centre plays a significant role in advocacy and education, raising awareness about the threats facing native raptors, such as habitat loss and introduced predators. Through their shows and behind-the-scenes experiences, they educate the public about the ecological importance of these birds and the challenges they face. This educational aspect is a key part of their mission, fostering a sense of responsibility and encouraging support for conservation initiatives.
Visitors often leave with a profound appreciation for the efforts undertaken by Wingspan. The passion of the staff is palpable, and knowing that your visit directly contributes to saving these incredible creatures adds a layer of meaning to the experience. Many express a desire to return or support the centre further after witnessing their dedication firsthand.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit