Matamata is a rural town with a population of 6,306 people nestled at the bottom of the Kaimai Ranges. It is well known for its thoroughbred industry, dairy farming heritage, and historic Firth Tower Museum.

The Kaimai Ranges make a stunning backdrop to the town (and are considered to be the most outstanding natural feature in the district. They provide a range of opportunities for many recreational activities, including bush walking, hunting, 4x4 driving, and mountain biking.

Matamata is internationally known as the location where Peter Jackson filmed "Hobbiton" for the Lord of the Rings movies. Since the launch of the Lord of the Rings movies and the subsequent opening of the Hobbiton Movie Set Tours just out of town, Matamata has become a vibrant visitor destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Centrally situated, Matamata offers a range of walking and tramping options, golf courses and an extensive selections of cafes and accommodation options. The Waharoa airfield (just out of Matamata) is also world reknowned as a gliding spot.

To find out more about all that Matamata has to offer, visit the Matamata i-Site Visitor Centre