Hobbiton™ Movie Set Evening Banquet Tour

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.

Discover Waikato’s world class facility, centered around a purpose built 250m wooden with a guided tour. A great opportunity to learn about the history of the Avantidrome and find out more about the facilities and programmes we have on offer. While you are here, grab yourself a spot in the stands and watch New Zealand’s track cyclists train or perhaps rub shoulders with one of the Waikato/BOP Magic players or All Blacks Sevens team in the tunnel. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of New Zealand’s Olympic heroes hanging around. Avantidrome Tours take place on a weekly basis. Private bookings of a minimum of 10 persons welcome outside designated tour times.

Your journey begins with a scenic riverside walk, offering breathtaking views over Lake Arapuni. Then, effortlessly cruise along the Waikato River Trail on a state-of-the-art e-bike, soaking in the stunning landscapes before a leisurely lunch at the charming Rhubarb Café or a secluded picnic spot. As the day winds down, immerse yourself in the twilight magic of our Glowworm Kayak Tour. Drift through the serene Pokaiwhenua Canyon, surrounded by shimmering glowworms and the soft sounds of nature - a truly mesmerising experience. Tailored for those who seek premium, private, and unforgettable adventures, this exclusive, all-in-one experience is the perfect way to discover the best of the Waikato in absolute comfort and style.

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.