CulturaFest 2026

This peaceful location is positioned for a day of relaxation, adventure or a road trip to Rotorua, Waitomo, and other destinations. A unique self-contained Studio with private courtyard, BBQ, private ensuite and kitchenette with continental breakfast provided. The Studio comes with air-conditioning, seating area, along with a modern and relaxing décor and privacy. Matamata Lodge is the perfect location to base yourself for one night or more. With so many local attractions and experiences like the Hobbiton Movie, Te Waihou Walkway, Blue Water Springs and Wairere Falls at your doorstep. Unwind and soak in the scenery of rolling pastures, Kaimai ranges, stunning sunsets and star gazing.

Set on six hectares of peaceful, park-like grounds, Opal Hot Springs offers a relaxing escape for families, couples, and groups. Enjoy naturally heated mineral pools, private soaking options, open green spaces, and a fun waterslide for kids. Accommodation includes cosy cabins, modern motel units, and powered or non-powered campsites. Just 6km from Matamata, it’s an ideal base for exploring Hobbiton, Wairere Falls, local trails and the wider region. From peaceful morning dips to golden hour soaks, Opal Hot Springs invites you to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy genuine Kiwi hospitality.

Epworth Retreat & Recreation Centre is a long-standing and unique retreat owned and operated by the Methodist Church of NZ. Epworth offers affordable accommodation and stunning surroundings allowing as many families, schools, sporting and other groups the opportunity to experience the golden summers of old and much more.. Epworth is a natural paradise that provides a peaceful break from the pressures of the city living, spread out over 12 acres nestled on the shores of the Waikato river. Kayaking, archery, flying fox on site all provided by contracted adventure company, booking essential. We collaborate with Sanctuary Mountain to offer a unique nature experience being the largest nature reserve in the southern hemisphere.

The Lakehouse. Sleeps 2 A luxurious and serene escape. The pantry and fridge are stocked with meal options produced and harvested from the estate's own chickens, bees, Angus beef, vineyard, olive trees and market garden - a truly unique and memorable experience. The Gatehouse. Sleeps up to 10 A two-storey house overlooking the property from its highest point - incredible lake views from one side of the lake to the other. Take the whole house, or a floor to yourselves: three bedrooms up, two down, with full kitchen and living. The Farmhouse. Sleeps 6 Your tranquil rural retreat at 256 Maungatautari Road - a recently refurbished three-bedroom home on a serene lifestyle block, two minutes from shops and cafés, with Karāpiro Domain.

The original homestead was known in the area for the beautiful cottage gardens and specimen trees. There are some beautiful examples of a hundred plus year old Kauri, Copper beech and magnificent magnolia trees which the tui love to visit. During its history, there have been many families live in the villa with each generation adding their love and attention to the property. The bedrooms that are lovingly restored are named from the families or significant aspects of its history. There are many Victorian features in the villa including original tiled fireplaces, polished floors, leadlight windows and doors and high ceilings. Fully renovated June 2019.

Karapiro Willows has the privacy of a hotel with the charm of a country dwelling. Each of our luxurious guest rooms have been carefully appointed to ensure your stay is relaxing with comfortable beds and private bathrooms. We love to set you up for the day's adventures with a nutritious breakfast of fruit, muesli, yoghurt, a platter of eggs, cheese, avocados and salmon served in our sunny kitchen over looking the willow trees. From Karapiro Willows you can reach either the West coast with the wild black sand beach of Raglan and nearby Waitomo Caves or the East coast golden sand beach of Mt Maunganui in around 60 minutes drive. The Hobbiton movie set is 20 minutes drive over rolling farmland. Dine, shop, cycle, kayak or swim close-by.