Kiwi hatching and rearing, with a nocturnal house where visitors can see kiwi, is what the National Kiwi Hatchery offers, at Agrodome, 141 Western Road in Ngongotahā, about 10 minutes from downtown Rotorua. The website calls it the largest and most successful kiwi hatchery in the world.
Guided tours are offered, and visitors talk to kiwi experts and see the hatching process. Allow about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including transport from Agrodome, and check in 10 minutes before the tour. Children under 5 cannot take part. A behind-the-scenes tour in a staff-only area is also offered, for those aged 12 and over. The hatchery is open seven days a week, including public holidays. Experiences at the hatchery and Agrodome can be booked together by phone on 0800 724 626. The hatchery says it remains open, with a biosecurity plan in place after bird flu was confirmed on the mainland.