Historical Society Annual Book Fair

Off-grid, and built with sustainability in mind, Buster has a Scandinavian simplicity. The birch interior is restful and calm. Natural linens adorn the bed and large windows take in the surroundings. The hut blends seamlessly into its setting with careful landscaping and native plantings. The hut contains a bathroom, and kitchen and sleeps up to four guests in a queen bed and cosy upstairs loft bed. A deck, wood-fired hot tub and firepit are just outside, perfect for taking in the sight and sound of the Waihou river flowing past. In the evenings, get cosy in the hut with the wood burner or head outside to toast marshmallows over the fire pit and enjoy a star-filled sky.

We are now able to offer our newly completed stand alone Chalet called The Oarhouse with a much envied aspect overlooking Lake Karapiro. It has two suites each with either one Californian bed plus one single or three single beds for up to 6 guests. Each suite has its own en-suite. There is a large lounge / dining room with schist fireplace, full kitchen, separate laundry, carport and extensive decking overlooking the lake. We feel The Oar House would not be out of place amongst New Zealand’s finest.

14 modern and spacious fully self-contained units, serviced daily. Bubble baths in 7 units. Sauna, continental & cooked breakfast. Fully catered conference facilities for up to 30 people. O'Reilly's is located 2min from the town centre, 40min to Rotorua, Hamilton and Tauranga, and 1hr 45min drive to Auckland. Matamata is in the heart of rich fertile Waikato dairy farmland and boasts some of NZ's foremost thoroughbred horse breeders and trainers. Matamata is the location of the Hobbiton movie set which is open for tours daily. Other local activities include gliding, sky diving, hot pools, bush walks, golf, and horse racing. Check out our website for further detail and online reservations.

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.

The Oar & Paddle boasts the best view of Lake karapiro on the sunny, sheltered left bank. Ideal accommodation for family or groups of friends, wedding preparation and a honeymoon hideaway. Bike trails and walks are close at hand at Te Awa over-water boardwalk cycle way, only minutes from your door. Follow the boardwalk to the Mighty River Domain and the Don Rowlands Centre, or simply view the rowing course right from your room. Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari and many adventure activities are at your doorstep. The Oar & Paddle offers a grandstand view of the rowing, canoe racing, New Zealand Grand Prix (NZGP) Hydroplanes, Waterski Racing and Waka Ama. The Oar & Paddle is right in the middle of Middle Earth only 18km away from Hobbiton.

The pantry and fridge are stocked with breakfast items that were produced and harvested from the Estate's own chickens, bees, Angus beef, vineyard, olive trees and market garden, making for a truly unique and memorable experience. Whether you're looking to relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings or explore all that the region has to offer, The Lakehouse is the perfect place to stay.