Walks and Trails
Keep New Zealand Beautiful
Take in more nature and beauty in Matamata and the surrounding area by trying one of the local nature walks. You will find there are many trails ranging from easy to advanced. Many of these trails can be done in any season of the year with each season bringing its own beauty to the natural surroundings. If you are tramping throughout New Zealand, we ask that you do this responsibility and practice safety. The walks listed below range from beginner to advanced. If you have further questions visit the Department of Conservation or contact the i-SITE.
Local Walks
Centennial Drive
Matamata
Located in the town, Centennial Drive is a stunning botanical park that winds its way through the Matamata town centre.
Tower Road Walk
Matamata
Walk 2km from the edge of town to the Tower Road Museum along a sealed path. Large, developed trees shade the footpath as you stroll along the countryside, passing local farms.
Wairere Falls
Matamata/Kaimai Ranges
** Track Maintenance starting in late January 2024 for a period of 16-18 weeks **
A short 15 min drive from the Matamata town centre, Wairere Falls Track weaves its way through moss covered rocks and tree roots. Large round boulders form natural pools and cascading waterfalls. See the Wairere falls itinerary here
Waiorongomai Valley tramping tracks
Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park
A 26 min drive will take you to the Wairongomai Valley Tramping tracks. Explore pack tracks and tramlines from gold mining days – the shorter option is suitable for children and follows New Zealand’s oldest known railway (1882-83) with the original rail still in place.
Neil Algar/Furness Park Walkway
Matamata
Located on the edge of town off Peria Road, this pleasant walk on flat ground links Furness and Neil Algar Reserves. The walk is mostly flat and pathed, making it ideal for older people and people with limited physical abilities.
Mount Te Aroha
Te Aroha
A short 30 min drive from Matamata, there are a series of walks up and around Mount Te Aroha that offer stunning views and give access to the Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park.
Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway
Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park
50 mins drive from Matamata is the Karangahake Gorge. Situated at the base of the Coromandel Range, the Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway follows the old railway line between Paeroa and Waihi, giving access to impressive remains from the mining and railway eras.
The Blue Springs
Waikato/Putaruru
Closed from 13 November 2023 – November 2024
Visit the picturesque crystal-clear blue water at the Blue Springs just 30 mins drive from Matamata where you can do either the Te Waihou Walkway or the Blue Springs walk. See the Blue Springs Itinerary here
Tom Grant Drive
Matamata
Located in town, Tom Grant Drive is an extension of Centennial Drive which continues through the residential area of Matamata. This part of the drive is newer, with fewer developed trees, but featuring several beautiful gardens and a children’s playground.
Te Tapui Scenic Reserve
Waikato/Cambridge
23 mins drive out of Matamata you can climb up the Maungakawa summit to the lookout tower for great views of the surrounding countryside.
Waitawheta Tramway
Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park
Drive an hour to the Waitawheta Tramway where you follow an old tramline (1898 – 1928) on a relatively flat track through the spectacular Waitawheta Gorge – with interpretation panels as well, it’s a great option for kids.
Planning for Local Walks and Trails
We have created a number of premade Itineraries for you to explore for your convenience. These Itineraries explore the local area at a variety of budgets to cater for all. Explore the Wairere Falls Itinerary or the Blue Springs Itinerary to find out more.
Accommodation
Matamata has a range of local accommodation providers including B & B's, motels and a campground.
Places to Eat
Visit the wealth of cafes, bars and restaurants that Matamata has to offer with takeout and dine in options available.
Explore Matamata
Keen to explore Matamata but too busy to do the planning? The team at the Matamata i-SITE is happy to help plan your visit.
