If you’re looking for something local to do with the kids these school holidays - walk, bike or drive to Firth Tower Museum in Matamata for a fun day out.

Nestled on the popular Tower Road stretch of the Hauraki Rail Trail, visitors can bring a picnic and take a complimentary wander around the picturesque grounds, enjoy the wide lawns and relax under the shady oaks. For a nominal museum entry fee, families can climb the tower and explore the 13 historical buildings, including an old jail, chapel and school house, plus a load of extras these school holidays, until 17 October.

“We love visitors!” said Firth Tower manager Amy Hunter. “Firth Tower is a wonderful historical reserve full of treasures for children and adults to discover and explore. These school holidays, we’re laying out a bunch of activities throughout the buildings and grounds for families to enjoy, including silent movies running on loop in the Barn building, a Morse code activity and traditional board games in The Barn, outdoor Victorian games if the weather’s nice and loads more.”

Amy said the buildings and grounds are looking fresh and ready for Spring and a busy wedding season ahead. “The buildings are being washed down and the gardens have all been weeded and prepared for planting,” she said. “Word is spreading about our beautiful little chapel and gorgeous grounds and we’re getting lots of enquiries and bookings for people looking for a rustic, country-style wedding with unique photo opportunities”.

It is also a popular stopover for motorhomes, with powered sites, affordable overnight fees, a public toilet open 24/7 and security surveillance. “We’re proud to offer a quiet and peaceful space for the motorhome community, with beautiful grounds on their doorstep and so close to town.”

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.

For entry into the museum and access to all of the extra activities these school holidays, pay cash or EFTPOS on entry at the office. Museum admission prices are $25 per family (two adults and two school aged children) or get a group of six or more adults and children together and pay just $4.50 each. Regular prices are Adults $10, $5 Seniors (65+) and $5 Child (5-16).