One of the most well-known attractions in Rotorua, Rainbow Springs has existed in various forms since 1929. These days, it’s a nature park and kiwi conservation site. In fact, just this month, the 1500th kiwi hatched at Rainbow Springs.
I’m liking
The park is pristine. There’s not a spot of rubbish and the gardens are beautifully kept. It’s a lovely place to visit on a hot, sunny day (as we did), as there’s plenty of tree shade to keep you cool.
When I asked my children what they liked best about our trip to Rotorua, they were unanimous in saying “The Big Splash”. This is a fun ride which is suitable for all ages. We went around and around and around… fortunately, the park wasn’t too busy on the day we went and we didn’t have to spend too long in line 😉
The kids also very much liked feeding the fish and playing fish spotting was a theme of the day.
There’s a cafe on site and we enjoyed ice creams in the sun while the kids played on the play ground. However, it’s fine to take your own food in and it’s a nice spot of a picnic so you can make a whole day of it. Your entry price also allows you to come and go through the day – or come back at night so that you can see the kiwi when they’re out and about.
I really enjoyed reading the tree and plant labels and finding out a bit more about the flora and fauna in the park.
The conclusion
Rainbow Springs is a fantastic mix of fun, entertainment, information and conservation. They play an important role in breeding New Zealand’s favourite native bird. But most of all, it’s just jolly good fun and both kids and adults will have a call.
(Tip) Kids go free these holidays! From December 26th 2015 and February 8th 2016, you get one child free per full-paying adult (up to three on a family pass). Score!
