School Holiday Workshop: Creativity for Kids Club (3)

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 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.

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 Mighty River Domain at Lake Karapiro is situated six kilometres south of Cambridge in the Waipa District. Our 18 hectare domain is open for public access all year round. With a range of facilities, it's the perfect location for aquatic and land-based events. Our world-class Sir Don Rowlands Centre can be hired for family, community, national and international events. We also offer affordable outdoor recreation activities and accommodation including camping, cabins and lodges. There are several walking tracks nearby including the internationally significant Maungatautari Ecological Island Reserve which features a 16 metre high forest canopy viewing tower, a 600 year old rata and flourishing native species.

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.

The Good Life Retreat has been designed and built with relaxation, privacy and a true nature-immersed experience in mind. Each exquisite room ensures sole access to the Retreat, its luxury facilities as well as our unique animal feeding experience. Make yourself at home in our bespoke accommodation in Cambridge, swim in the heated pool, soak in the spa, enjoy the sauna after a workout in our state-of-the-art gym. And don't forget to explore our wine cellar before dinner. Roasting marshmallows over the firepit after cooking pizzas on the wood fired outdoor over, it doesn't get better than this. And of course, there are the many animals to feed and enjoy. Immerse yourself in the beauty of our New Zealand landscape from bedroom and beyond.