Consyl Publishing & Publicity Ltd

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Home > Our Publications > Travel New Zealand > September 2007

More to Otorohanga than famous Kiwis

HOME to the famous Kiwi House and Native Bird Park, Otorohanga has long been known as the official Kiwi Town of New Zealand.
Kiwis are everywhere in Otorohanga - on signs, as sculptures, in costume wandering the main business area, on banners and of course at the kiwi house! But there is more to Otorohanga than just kiwis.
Otorohanga is also the closest service town to the famous Waitomo Caves. Making it a good stop for travellers. The region is world famous for attractive hanging baskets and of course zestful 'Wiki the Kiwi'. He's soft, cuddly, very friendly, loves the camera and really enjoys welcoming visitors to the area.
Wiki is a regular sight in the town's main street as he heads for the railway station on his daily appointment with the passengers of Tranz Rail's Auckland/Wellington Overlander Train.
Otorohanga has a prime location, strategically situated on one of New Zealand's most travelled tourist trails just 15 minutes from Waitomo, two hours south of Auckland and 90 minutes drive northwest of Rotorua.
Otorohanga is a great place to relax, have a bite to eat or just sit and observe the hive of activity in the main street. The main street 'Otorohanga Reserve' is a recent addition to the town's visitor attractions. On the reserve are the new district library and two massive and impressive Pouwhenua, which depict eight Maniapoto Tupuna (ancestors).
Otorohanga is home of the largest live Kiwi collection at the Kiwi House, native bird park. Bush walks and Maori historical sites abound in Otorohanga.
Home of Project Kiwiana! Otorohanga celebrates Kiwiana culture every year with this fabulous festival, perfect for locals and tourists alike.
Adventure tourism in New Zealand begins in Otorohanga. Being only 16 kilometres from the world famous Waitomo limestone caves, Otorohanga offers some of the closest accommodation to the caves area. From glow worm caves to lush New Zealand farming adventures, you will find great accomodation and adventure packages in Otorohanga.
From the nearby Waitomo glow worms to local Maori Haka culture or Black water rafting adventure tourism, you can't go past Otorohanga.
Visit the stunning and secluded hot water beaches at Kawhia, the 'Key to the Coast'. Kawhia offers fabulous fishing charter adventures and harbour cruises.