Matamata Ward Essentials
Matamata Ward is home to the world-renowned Hobbiton Movie Set, where visitors can explore Bag End and the Green Dragon Inn. Beyond Middle-earth, the region features the 153-meter Wairere Falls, the highest waterfall in the North Island, accessible via a bush-clad hiking track. The area also offers geothermal relaxation at Opal Hot Springs, panoramic views from the Maungakawa Summit, and essential travel services at the Matamata i-SITE, housed in a distinctive gatehouse building.
A Hobbiton Movie Set
The Hobbiton Movie Set is a significant location used for The Lord of the Rings film trilogy and The Hobbit film trilogy, serving as a…
B The Green Dragon
Reconstructed pub within the Hobbiton Movie Set serving exclusive Southfarthing ales, ciders, and non-alcoholic ginger beer.
C Wairere Falls viewpoint
Observation point for the 153-meter waterfall, the highest in the North Island, reached via a track through Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park.
iSite
Official visitor information center featuring a unique Tolkien-inspired gatehouse architectural design.
Wairere Falls Upper Lookout
Elevated viewpoint at the top of the falls offering expansive views across the Waikato Plains and the Kaimai Range.
Opal Hot Springs & Holiday Park
Geothermal holiday park featuring public and private mineral pools located near the base of the Kaimai Ranges.
G Big Oak Tree
Significant landscape feature within the Hobbiton Movie Set, situated near Bag End.
The Shires Rest
The primary departure point for Hobbiton tours, containing a ticketing center, gift shop, and cafe overlooking the Alexander farm.
I The Redoubt Bar and Eatery
Central Matamata gastropub themed after a 19th-century colonial redoubt.
Maungakawa Summit
Located in a scenic reserve, this summit offers views of the Waikato region and marks the site of a former tuberculosis sanatorium.
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