The Ōtorohanga Kiwi House and Native Bird Park, which was founded by three Ōtorohanga residents, opened in 1971. The aim was to provide a sanctuary for New Zealand’s native birds and other fauna, breed native birds for release into the wild and give people the chance to see them at close quarters. It was the first nocturnal kiwi house in New Zealand. Day and night time are reversed so visitors can see kiwi (which are nocturnal) in action. The kiwi was dressed in black and white for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.