Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre
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Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre

4.8
·242 reviews·Ngongotahā Valley, New Zealand

Experience intimate encounters with New Zealand's rare birds of prey, supporting vital conservation efforts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Showtimes

See birds in action!

CrowdMedium
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Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre

Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre

Best Time

Showtimes

See birds in action!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience intimate encounters with New Zealand's rare birds of prey, supporting vital conservation efforts.

4.8
(242 reviews)

"Hands down the best experience I have had! As a Kiwi, this was an incredibly spiritual experience."

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TIP

🐦 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Karearea Falcon Encounter

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

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

Meet Native Birds of Prey

Various Show Areas

See and learn about a variety of New Zealand's magnificent birds of prey up close.

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Planning Your Visit

Up-Close Encounters

Prepare for an intimate experience with New Zealand's native birds of prey. Many visitors report birds landing on them, offering a truly unique and memorable interaction. Book in advance to secure your spot for these special encounters.

Conservation Focus

Wingspan is dedicated to conservation and advocacy for native birds. Your visit directly supports their crucial work. Learn about the challenges these magnificent creatures face and how you can help protect them.

Best Times

When
Showtimes
Why
See birds in action!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
More availability for shows
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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:

reddit.com

Rusty, 3mth old Karearea at Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre, Rotorua.

reddit.com

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:

reddit.com

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

4.8
(242 reviews)

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

Up-close bird encounters
Knowledgeable and passionate staff
Support for conservation efforts

What People Dislike

Limited public transport options

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 ❤️ 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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wingspan is an absolute hit with families! Kids are mesmerized by the birds flying close and the chance for a falcon to land on them. It's an exciting and educational outing that's often described as 'better than the jet boat ride!' Reddit The staff are great at engaging younger visitors, making the experience both fun and informative. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as there's a bit of walking involved. Reddit

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. Reddit

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Bird Lovers

For anyone passionate about birds and nature, Wingspan is a must-visit. The opportunity to get up close and personal with rare native birds of prey, like the Karearea falcon, is unparalleled. You'll be impressed by the knowledge and dedication of the staff, who are deeply committed to conservation. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majestic Karearea Falcon

The Karearea, or New Zealand Falcon, is a true gem of New Zealand's native wildlife. It's one of the world's rarest falcons, making any encounter with it incredibly special. At Wingspan, you have the unique opportunity to witness its breathtaking speed and agility firsthand during the 'Flight of the Falcon' show. Many visitors describe the thrill of having this powerful bird of prey land on their gloved arm, a testament to the trust built by the dedicated handlers. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Conservation and Rehabilitation Efforts

Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre is more than just an attraction; it's a vital hub for conservation and rehabilitation of New Zealand's native birds of prey. Their dedicated team works tirelessly to rescue, treat, and rehabilitate injured or orphaned birds, giving them a second chance at life in the wild. This crucial work is often funded by visitor contributions and the sale of merchandise. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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