The picturesque road that winds its way around the back of Mt Ngongotaha to Paradise Valley Springs is in itself an attraction. Established in 1939 the well-known wildlife park just ten minutes from Rotorua CBD is a popular destination for both tour operators and independent travellers.
Flowing from Natural Springs, Bottled Spring Water is a Paradise Valley Specialty
Legend has it that long ago, before the days of European settlement, Maori brought their wounded to Te Waireka (Sweet Water Spring). Here, injured warriors could drink the pure water for its healing properties. In 2003 the owners of Paradise Valley Springs developed a bottling plant and visitors can now purchase Paradise Pure, bottled spring water to drink on the premises or take away for friends and family to taste. The pure water that flows from deep underground may be tasted direct from the spring and also provides a continuous supply to the coffee shop, the trout pools and the bottling plant.
Accessible Native Bushwalks, Trout Pools, NZ Wildlife and Wetlands
Paradise Valley Springs nestles in a setting of stunning New Zealand bush. The accessible walkways are immaculately maintained. Visitors can hand feed most of the trout, birds and animals in the park. Many of the native tree species are identified with signage including details of useage in pre-and post-European times. Safe platforms at various points allow closer access and choice vantage points.
Wild trout cruise spring-fed pools and through the quick waters of the Ngongotaha Stream that flows through Paradise Valley. Purchase a bag of fish food at the shop before embarking on the walk – it’s fun to watch the gleaming trout rise to the granules in a flurry of silver fins and shining water. Rainbow, Brown, Brook and Tiger trout can be seen in this trout fishing stream, world-renowned among anglers.
The Rainforest Treetops Walk is a particularly uplifting experience. An elevated walkway, at some points 20 metres high, takes visitors into the tree canopy at the edge of the vast Mamaku ranges, through a jungle of mature trees, tangled vines and native plants.
Lion Enclosure, Lion Feeding and Lion Cubs
An especially-designed enclosure allows visitors to get up close and personal to these splendid creatures. African lions were first introduced to the park in the 1970s and all the lions currently in the park have been born there. At various times, other members of the pride have been donated to zoos and wildlife parks in New Zealand and Australia. The enclosure simulates the natural environment of African lions with savannah-type grasses, rocky outcrops and shallow caves. Feeding time is 2:30pm every day.
When lion cubs are available visitors may photograph, pat them (under supervision), and watch them play in a special enclosure. Being close enough to touch these cubs, and feel their rough fur is a special privilege and a memorable experience.
Native NZ birds and a farmwalk are also features of Paradise Valley Springs which is open every day of the year including Christmas Day from 8:00am until dark. Last entry is at 5:00pm. Entry: Adults $26; Children (5-15yrs inclusive) $13; Family Unit (2 adults, 2 children 5-15yrs) $68 – additional children with family pass $5 each; 467 Paradise Valley Rd, Rotorua, New Zealand; ph: 64 7 348 9667; fax: 64 7 349 3359; info@paradisev.co.nz
Lyn Rasmussen - Lyn is a New Zealander who lives in the centre of New Zealand's Volcanic Wonderland. She has been recognised for her writing across ...
