Ōtorohanga is New Zealand's self-made 'kiwiana' town. Main street murals and displays explain some of the country’s most significant cultural icons.
The Kiwi House is an iconic feature of Ōtorohanga. You can see real Kiwi, New Zealand’s national icon, as well as numerous other native birds in a home replicated to their natural habitat.
If you want a crash-course in basic kiwi culture, Ōtorohanga is the place to do it. The main street features a parade of modular ‘kiwiana’ displays – from All Blacks and Aunt Daisy to farm dogs and Pavlova. Printed guides are available from the i-SITE Visitor Information Centre.
While you’re making your way around the displays, you’ll notice a number of kiwiana murals painted on the town’s buildings. Kiwiana aside, Ōtorohanga has a good choice of cafés, shops and places to stay, and is the gateway to the Waitomo Caves area.
