Lakeview Lodge Karapiro

Unique opportunity to visit the Karapiro Dam and see some of the amazing native bush and bird life in the Cambridge River Gorge. Ideal for you and your whole family, anyone who likes adventure, fun, speed or scenery. Speeding up the Mighty Waikato in a 450 hp V8 Jet Boat is going to get the heart pumping, adrenaline flowing and the faces smiling. If you are a thrill seeking adrenaline junkie then this is for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a game of golf, followed by a browse round a picturesque town and a latte, or a visit to the close by Hobbiton movie set from the Lord of the Rings, then give the team at Camjet Cambridge Jet Boat Tours a call and we can have a quiet cruise up our beautiful river.

Experience Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. Your guided tour starts with a drive through our picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Journey past the colourful Hobbit Hole™ doors that scatter the hillsides, including the iconic Bag End, home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, before arriving at Bagshot Row™ for a glimpse of the interior of a humble Hobbit’s home. Continue along the pathways past The Millhouse, across the double-arch stone bridge and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will enjoy a complimentary, exclusive beverage Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ range to conclude your Middle-earth adventure.

Step through the pest-proof gate into another world, where an ancient forest tower majestically above well-maintained walking tracks and the air is filled with birdsong. Explore the Sanctuary at your own pace or with an experienced guide who will help you spot the wildlife, including kākā, takahē, tuatara, kiwi, tīeke and more. Relax in the clearing or take an optional walk up the 16-metre observation tower, offering a unique perspective from within the forest canopy. Sanctuary Mountain is located in the heart of the Waikato, and as a not-for-profit, every visit helps make our conservation efforts possible. So come and share the mauri and mana of Maungatautari. You will come away enriched and enlightened by this spectacular environment.

Taking a private photography tour allows you to choose an itinerary which best suits your schedule, photographic interests and physical capabilities. Imagine the uniqueness of exploring the South Island by helicopter, photographing in locations only a privileged few ever see. Maybe even trek along remote New Zealand tracks, many of which are unknown by visitors, taking you from secret valleys to mountain wildernesses. Whether you are looking for a trip just for yourself, or have a group to organise an expedition for, we would love to help you get the most out of your photography in New Zealand. To learn more please click on the link.

The Firth Tower was built in 1882 by Josiah Clifton Firth to provide a lookout over the country side. It was also used as the estate office and sleeping quarters for single men. The tower stands on rising ground commanding an extensive view of the surrounding country. The Firth Tower Historical Reserve is administered by the Matamata-Piako District Council and museum exhibits and displays are the work of the Matamata Historical Society. The Heritage Centre houses the archives of the Matamata area.

This is a woodland park where imaginations are inspired, creative exploration encouraged and mental and physical health restored. A place for the whole family or groups of friends to enjoy together - a great destination to meet up with others. It has many layers of interest to engage a diverse range of people. A destination that contributes significantly to the region by attracting national and international visitors and that also serves the local community and Waikato businesses as an outstanding venue for meetings, promotions, and staff training. A rehabilitated quarry site where care of the environment is a core driver.