Agrodome facts for kids
| Location | Ngongotahā, Rotorua, New Zealand |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 38°05′08″S 176°11′26″E / 38.085481°S 176.1905754°E |
| Status | Operating |
| Opened | 1971 |
| Owner | Ngāi Tahu Tourism |
| Theme | Working farm |
| Operating season | All year |
| Area | 350 acres (140 ha) |
| Attractions | |
| Shows | Sheep shearing |
The Agrodome is a fun farm theme park located in Rotorua, New Zealand. It's a place where you can learn all about farm life. The park was started in 1971 by Godfrey Bowen and George Harford. Today, it is a very popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Since 2011, a company called Ngāi Tahu Tourism has owned most of the Agrodome.
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Agrodome: How It Started
The Agrodome began in 1971. It was created by Godfrey Bowen and George Harford. Godfrey Bowen was famous for being a world champion sheep shearer. George Harford was a local farmer.
The government even helped fund the Agrodome. They wanted to boost tourism in the area. Godfrey's brother, Ivan Bowen, was also a great shearer. He became the main showman at the Agrodome.
In December 2023, something new opened at the Agrodome. The National Kiwi Hatchery moved there. This is a special place where baby kiwi birds are cared for.
Fun Farm Activities
The Agrodome offers many exciting things to see and do. You can meet different farm animals and watch amazing shows.
Meet the Animals
In 2016, the Agrodome welcomed three Clydesdale horses. These large, strong horses were already famous. They had even acted in movies like The Hobbit and Xena: Warrior Princess.
Since 2018, the Agrodome has also had special Valais Blacknose sheep. These sheep are new to New Zealand. With them, the Agrodome now has 26 different types of sheep!
The Farm Show
Every day, there are three farm shows. Each show lasts about one hour. During the show, you can watch sheep being shorn. This means their wool is carefully removed.
You also learn interesting facts about farm animals. The show is both educational and entertaining. It's a big hit with everyone who visits.
Other Events
The Agrodome is also a place for bigger events. The yearly Rotorua A&P (agricultural and pastoral) Show happens here. This show celebrates farming and rural life. In 2016, the Agrodome even hosted the secondary schools cross country championships.
Who Owns the Agrodome?
The Agrodome was first owned by the Bowen and Harford families. In 2011, Ngāi Tahu Tourism became a major partner. This company has a lot of experience in tourism. They now own 75% of the Agrodome.
See also
In Spanish: Agrodome para niños
