Sustainability Fun Day

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.

This beautifully decorated tiny home features a fully equipped kitchen, cosy bedroom with an ensuite bathroom and space to simply chill. But the real luxury lies outside—soak in the outdoor bath under the stars, unwind in the Panorama Sauna, or gather around the outdoor fire to toast marshmallows. Wander the property’s walkways alongside tranquil ponds, climb to the top for sunrise views, or relax on the large front deck with your morning coffee. Challenge friends to kubb (a lawn game) or corn hole, fire up the Weber BBQ, and let the peace and quiet work its magic. Just a five-minute walk from Lake Karāpiro and less than ten minutes' drive from Cambridge, you’re perfectly positioned to explore—or stay put and soak in the serenity.

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.

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.

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.