Paradise Valley Springs Wildlife Park
A charming wildlife park in Rotorua offering close encounters with native animals, including lion cubs and trout, plus a unique treetop boardwalk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Paradise Valley Springs Wildlife Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming wildlife park in Rotorua offering close encounters with native animals, including lion cubs and trout, plus a unique treetop boardwalk.
"An awesome place for kids, with unique experiences like petting lion cubs and feeding the animals!"
🎯 Check Lion Cub Availability
Cub encounters are seasonal and time-limited. Call ahead or check their social media for updates!
💰 Bring Cash for Feed
Purchase feed bags to interact with ducks, trout, and other animals. A must-do for kids!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lion Cub Cuddles
Lion enclosure
An unforgettable chance to meet and pet young lion cubs. A truly unique wildlife interaction.
Treetop Boardwalk
Canopy walk
Stroll through the trees for a bird's-eye view of the park and its inhabitants.
Trout Pools
Trout streams
Feed the vibrant trout in crystal-clear pools. A peaceful and engaging activity for all ages.
Native Birdlife
Aviaries and park grounds
Encounter New Zealand's unique native birds, including the cheeky Kea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Lion Cub Encounters
Feeding Opportunities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Did you know you can pat lion cubs in Rotorua? I learned it recently and nobody I know was aware.
🎯 Check Lion Cub Availability
Cub encounters are seasonal and time-limited. Call ahead or check their social media for updates!
💰 Bring Cash for Feed
Purchase feed bags to interact with ducks, trout, and other animals. A must-do for kids!
Caught a lion mid yawn at Paradise Valley Springs Zoo outside Rotorua, NZ
One day Trip
🚗 Easy Parking & Access
Plenty of parking available. Wheelchairs are also available for free use.
⏰ Plan Your Visit Time
Some visitors found they were in and out within an hour, while others could spend all day.
Spending a long weekend in Rotorua with a under 1-year-old
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Lion Cub Availability
Cub encounters are seasonal and time-limited. Call ahead or check their social media for updates!
💰 Bring Cash for Feed
Purchase feed bags to interact with ducks, trout, and other animals. A must-do for kids!
🚗 Easy Parking & Access
Plenty of parking available. Wheelchairs are also available for free use.
⏰ Plan Your Visit Time
Some visitors found they were in and out within an hour, while others could spend all day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Paradise Valley Springs Wildlife Park for its interactive animal experiences, particularly the chance to feed ducks and trout, and the unique opportunity to pet lion cubs. The park is highly recommended for families, with many appreciating the accessible amenities like free wheelchair hire and ample parking. Some visitors noted a desire for clearer communication regarding the availability of lion cub encounters.
"Lovely place to take kids. They had a free wheelchair so I could also enjoy. Animals were lovely and great to be able to feed and pet. Definitely needs directions to get there. Plenty of parking. Not to busy when we went on Saturday"
Libby (Libby)
"First time visiting here. Not too busy even on a school holiday. There was a long line to pat the lion cubs. Awesome experience for the kids. They also sell feeds for the ducks, trouts and other animals. Very interactive and not too complicated. We all enjoyed the experience."
Doan Igharas
"What a wonderful place hidden away in a beautiful setting. Patting the lion cubs was truly memorable and watching the lions being feed was real entertainment for us all. This kids loved every minute and they really enjoyed getting to feed the kea and watching them so closely.
Highly recommended for families."
Simon Hornby
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located in Rotorua. While many visitors find it straightforward, some reviews suggest clearer directions would be helpful. It's recommended to use GPS or follow signage carefully.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission fees apply. It's advisable to check the park's website for current pricing, as it can change.
While not explicitly stated in all reviews, purchasing tickets upon arrival is common. Checking their website for online booking options is recommended.
Absolutely! Many visitors find it's a perfect destination for a half-day or full-day outing, especially for families.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park is home to a variety of native New Zealand animals, including lions, kea, ducks, and trout. You can also pet and feed many of them. +1
Yes, you can purchase feed for the ducks, trout, and other animals. This is a highly recommended interactive experience.
Yes, the park features a unique 20-ft.-high treetop boardwalk, offering a different perspective of the wildlife and surroundings.
The highlight for many is the opportunity to meet and pet lion cubs, though this is seasonal and depends on their availability.
The park offers free wheelchair hire, making it accessible for visitors who may need it to navigate the grounds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific dining options aren't detailed in reviews, it's common for wildlife parks to have a cafe or picnic areas. Bringing your own snacks is often a good idea.
Picnic areas are usually available at such parks, making it a good option for families to save on costs.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture moments feeding the animals, the unique treetop boardwalk views, and of course, any lion cub encounters.
With opportunities to feed and get close to many animals, you'll have great chances for memorable photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for at least a few hours to explore, and consider bringing snacks or planning for a picnic to make the most of your day. The treetop boardwalk offers a fun, elevated perspective that kids often find exciting.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own lunch and snacks to save on dining expenses. The park's layout allows for a fulfilling visit even if you spend a few hours rather than a full day, making it a flexible option for various budgets. The parking is free, adding another saving for visitors arriving by car.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Lion Cub Encounters
To make the most of this experience, it's highly recommended to check the park's social media or contact them directly before your visit. This will help you confirm if the cubs are currently available for petting and what the specific times or limitations might be. Missing this chance can be a disappointment, as noted by some visitors who traveled specifically for this encounter.
Even if you miss the cub encounters, the park offers plenty of other engaging activities. The feeding of native animals like ducks and trout is a consistent hit, providing a different kind of memorable interaction.
Navigating the Park: Accessibility and Amenities
The park also boasts ample parking, which is a practical convenience for those arriving by car. While specific dining facilities aren't heavily detailed, it's common for such attractions to have a cafe or designated picnic areas. Visitors may consider bringing their own snacks and drinks to enhance their experience and manage costs, especially when visiting with families.
Overall, the park is designed for a comfortable visit, with a focus on providing accessible and enjoyable experiences for all guests. The straightforward layout and available amenities contribute to a relaxed day out.
Interactive Animal Experiences
These feeding opportunities are more than just a way to pass the time; they provide a direct connection with the animals, making the visit more memorable and educational. The ease of purchasing feed on-site adds to the spontaneity of these interactions.
While the lion cub encounters are a unique highlight, the consistent availability of feeding opportunities ensures that every visitor can have a rewarding and interactive experience at the park. It’s these moments of connection that often leave the most lasting impressions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit