Matamata

This charming rural town is best known as the home of the Hobbiton Movie Set, where The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were filmed. The meticulously preserved film set offers an immersive journey into Middle-earth.

Things to do

• Hobbiton Movie Set Tour — Explore the fully preserved film set of the Shire with guided tours through hobbit holes, gardens, and the Green Dragon Inn.
• Firth Tower — Climb this historic 1881 stone tower on a hill for panoramic views across the Matamata countryside and farmland.
• Matamata i-SITE Visitor Centre — Visit the central information hub for local advice, maps, and booking assistance for attractions and activities in the region.
• Redwoods Thermal Pools & Spa — Relax in naturally heated mineral pools and spa facilities located just outside town, drawing geothermal water from beneath the region.
• Te Awamutu Museum — Explore Māori taonga, local heritage, and exhibits about the Waikato region's history and culture, located 30 minutes south.
• Matamata Golf Club — Play an 18-hole championship course set against the backdrop of the Kainai Mountains on rolling pastoral land.

Food to try

• Local grass-fed beef — Sample premium New Zealand beef from the surrounding farmland, served at restaurants throughout town and known for its quality and flavour.
• Hobbiton-inspired meals at The Green Dragon — Dine at the replica pub within the film set, serving traditional comfort food and ales in an authentic Middle-earth setting.
• Fresh farm-gate dairy products — Purchase or taste locally made cheeses, butter, and yoghurt from nearby dairy farms that offer farm shop experiences.
• Waikato lamb — Try locally raised lamb dishes at regional restaurants, a staple protein of the fertile farming region surrounding Matamata.

Local customs & good to know

• Book Hobbiton tours well in advance — Tours operate year-round but sell out quickly during peak seasons; advance online booking is essential for guaranteed entry.
• Respect farm property and rural privacy — The region is active farmland; stay on designated paths and roads, and avoid trespassing on private properties beyond tourist attractions.
• Plan for changeable weather — The Waikato region experiences variable weather year-round; bring layers and rain protection even on seemingly clear days.
• Allow time for rural travel — Matamata is in open countryside; allocate extra travel time to attractions and bring cash as some remote farm venues may lack card facilities.