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.

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…

The Green Dragon

Reconstructed pub within the Hobbiton Movie Set serving exclusive Southfarthing ales, ciders, and non-alcoholic ginger beer.

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.

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.

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.