Exploring Matamata, NZ
- Written by News Company
This wondrous New Zealand region is most famous for being the setting for Lord Of The Rings, but there are plenty of reasons that Matamata has been on the radar for campervan hire new zealand travelers for decades before there were any hobbit sightings in the area. There are a winde range of activities and sights here that will appeal to a wide range of travelers no matter their tastes. This is known as one of the most gorgeous regions in the entire country, which is really saying a lot considering this is New Zealand. If you have made the correct choice and marked Matamata as a destination on your trip, then check out this top things to do or see in the area.
Wairere Falls
This is one of the most stunning hikes you will ever embark on, so make sure to have this on your list no matter what. For three hours you will be treated to some of the most stunning waterfall visions to be found anywhere in the world. There are too many waterfalls to even count, and you will see them from many different angles over the course of your trek. No trip to this area is complete without witnessing these stunning falls, so be sure you don’t miss this one.
Matamata Trail
This trail will take you through the ancient village of Matamata and through the heart of hobbit country. Check out the famous Plantation Railway Station and the old bank that is considered one of the most architectural wonders of the area. You can take a guided tour or strike out on your own, and for those going it alone you can pick up a site map at the start of the trail. This is an interested walk both for those obsessed with Lord Of The Rings and for those interested more in the rich cultural history of this region.
Kaimai Cheese
One of the main things New Zealand is known for is its cheeses, and there is no better place to pick up a platter than at this local institution. For cheese lovers you will be in heaven and the platters offer a stunning array of rare and delicious cheeses to choose from.The cheeses are made on site since there is a cheese factory on the premises. If food is an important part of your campervan hire new zealand journey, then the cheeses of this region are an absolute must.
Opal Hot Springs
These are some of the most famous hot springs in the world, so stopping here is an absolute must in order to ease out of all that road weary pain you may be feeling during your trip. These waters are known to be healing and warm and packed with natural vitamins that will provide stress relief and and are great for the skin and mind. Travelers come from all over New Zealand, and the world, to experience these healing waters. In the wintertime the Opal Springs are especially refreshing since you can warm up in the steamy goodness, and in the summer many a weary traveler has put their cares aside and luxuriated in the waters that have been providing relief and ease for centuries. The waters are completely safe and entirely natural, so you don’t need to worry about a thing at Opal Hot Springs.
Firth Tower
This heritage building is a must see for anyone who wants to get a feel for what this area was like in the 1800s. Built in 1882, this majestic tower is surrounded by a compound of similarly stunning buildings and grand gardens. You can take a tour of the complex and witness the many exhibitions on display throughout the buildings that tell the colorful history of this site, and wander the stunning and well manicured gardens and grounds marveling at the beauty of the old complex.
Daltons Plantation
This area of New Zealand is known for its gardens, and none are more stunning than at Daltons Plantation. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time since you will be treated to endless exotic gardens to wander in and marvel at. There are so many different plant species here that you will want to pick up a guide so that you can know what you’re seeing. There’s really no more pleasing of an activity on a nice day, so make sure to pencil this one in.
Matamata is truly one of the top spots for campervan hire australia travelers due to its rich cultural history, the vast array of things to do and see, and of course the locations for Lord Of The Rings films. There is a lot to see and do here, and you will no doubt be fully entertained and never bored no matter how long you decide to stay.
