Last updated June 2026
Paradise Valley Springs Wildlife Park is a privately operated wildlife park and natural springs attraction located at 467 Paradise Valley Road in Rotorua. The park features spring-fed streams with rainbow and brown trout, a pride of African lions, native and other birds, and an elevated Treetops Walk through the bush canopy. It offers daily animal feeding opportunities and shows in a scenic valley setting approximately 10-15 minutes’ drive from central Rotorua. The park operates every day of the year and provides an accessible experience for visitors of all ages.
Practical Information
| Location | 467 Paradise Valley Road, Rotorua 3072 |
| Open | Daily from 8:00am until dark; last entry 5:00pm; open 365 days including public holidays |
| Entry (adults) | $38 (child 5-15 years $19; under 5 free) |
| Wildlife | Rainbow and brown trout; African lion pride; native and other birds; hand-feedable animals |
| Key attractions | Underwater trout viewing; Treetops Walk; daily lion feeding at 2:30pm; animal feeding |
| Website | paradisev.co.nz |
About Paradise Valley Springs Wildlife Park
Paradise Valley Springs occupies a natural valley setting on the western side of Rotorua. The property centres on clear spring-fed waterways that support large numbers of rainbow and brown trout, with underwater viewing windows providing close observation of the fish.
The park is notable for its resident pride of African lions, one of the few such exhibits in New Zealand wildlife attractions. Daily lion feeding occurs at 2:30pm, and visitors can observe the animals from dedicated viewing areas.
Native and introduced birds are housed throughout the grounds, alongside opportunities to hand-feed trout and other animals using food purchased on site. An elevated Treetops Walkway, reaching up to six metres above the ground, allows visitors to experience the bush canopy and observe birds from above.
The park first opened to the public in 1939 as a trout springs attraction and was later expanded to include additional wildlife. It remains an all-weather destination with free parking and recommends allowing one to two hours for a visit.
The Trout Springs and Waterways
The natural springs feed clear pools and a stream running through the property. Hundreds of rainbow and brown trout thrive in the consistent water conditions, and visitors can purchase food to feed them directly from the surface. Underwater viewing windows provide an unusual perspective on the fish below the waterline.
The Lion Pride and Daily Shows
A pride of African lions lives in a large enclosure within the park. The scheduled 2:30pm feeding show is a daily highlight, allowing close-range observation. Lion cubs born in November 2024 are now too old for direct visitor interaction.
Native Birds, Treetops Walk and Other Wildlife
The park displays a range of native New Zealand birds along with other species. The Treetops Walkway is a solid wooden boardwalk suspended through the canopy and included in admission. Additional animals and feeding opportunities for eels and other species are available across the grounds.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors frequently praise the clear underwater trout viewing, the novelty of seeing lions in New Zealand, and the peaceful valley setting. Many note the value of the included Treetops Walk and the daily feeding shows as highlights for families.
Reviewers often mention the park’s compact size makes it easy to explore in a couple of hours, with good opportunities for close animal encounters and photography. The all-weather nature and free parking are commonly appreciated.
Where to Learn More
Paradise Valley Springs official site: current opening hours, prices, daily schedule and booking information.
NewZealand.com listing: official tourism overview with pricing and visitor details.
RotoruaNZ.com: local tourism information and practical visitor guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Paradise Valley Springs Wildlife Park?
It is located at 467 Paradise Valley Road, approximately 10-15 minutes’ drive west of central Rotorua.
What are the current entry prices?
Adult admission is $38 and child (5-15 years) is $19, with under-fives free. Check the official website for any online discounts or local rates.
What are the opening hours?
The park opens daily at 8:00am and closes at dark, with last entry at 5:00pm. It operates 365 days a year including public holidays.
When is the lion feeding show?
Lion feeding takes place every day at 2:30pm.
Is the Treetops Walk included?
Yes, the elevated Treetops Walkway is included in the general admission price.
Can visitors hand-feed animals?
Yes, trout and other animals can be hand-fed with food purchased on site. Lion feeding is a scheduled show only.
Is parking available?
Free parking is provided at the park.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Most visitors spend one to two hours exploring the park and attractions.
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