Before director Peter Jackson shot his adaptations of J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy novels in his homeland, Matamata was just a dairy farming town. It still is, but most travelers go to see Hobbiton, the set used in the films. Matamata was chosen to represent Hobbiton because of its rolling green hills and pastures that were untouched by modern roads or power lines. The village is also the gateway to the Te Tapui Scenic Reserve, Wairere Falls in the Kaimai Ranges, and plenty of hiking trails.
Guided tours entertain and offer fascinating facts about the films. Excursions departing from Auckland, Hamilton, Taupo, and Rotorua typically include Matamata on the itinerary, along with the Waitomo Caves.
The Auckland-to-Rotorua intercity bus stops at Matamata, approximately a 3-hour journey. If you’re driving, Matamata is about two hours from Auckland, and around 45 minutes from Hamilton.
Hobbiton is generally open every day. If you’re planning to hike, the weather is best from October to April—winters tend to be a bit wet. The Matamata Country Markets take place on the second Saturday of the month.
Many guided tours to Matamata also include a stop at the Waitomo Caves, about an 80-minute drive away. In the underground cave system you’ll see beautiful limestone formations, rivers, waterfalls, and thousands upon thousands of glowworms. Thrill-seekers can even go rappelling or black-water rafting.