Matawai

Tucked away in the lush hills of the Gisborne region, Matawai is a tiny settlement that feels like a well-kept secret. It’s the kind of place you stumble upon while winding through the backcountry, where the air smells of damp earth and the only soundtrack is birdsong. This is classic rural New Zealand – sheep-dotted pastures, misty valleys, and a sense of calm that seeps into your bones.

Highlights & What to See

• Matawai Hotel – A historic country pub that’s been serving travellers since the 1920s. Stop in for a cold beer, a hearty meal, and a yarn with the locals. The wooden interior and open fire make it a classic Kiwi pit stop.
• Matawai Railway Station – Once a bustling stop on the Palmerston North–Gisborne line, now a nostalgic relic. You can still see the platform and station building, a nod to the region’s rail history.
• Te Urewera Forest – The vast native forest to the west is prime tramping (hiking) country. The Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk is a multi-day trek through ancient podocarp forest and along the lake’s edge – book ahead for huts.
• Matawai Scenic Reserve – A short walk through native bush leads to a lookout over the surrounding farmland and hills. It’s a peaceful spot for a picnic or a leg-stretch.
• Sheep & Cattle Stations – The backbone of the local economy. You’ll see working farms and maybe even a mustering dog in action – it’s a living slice of rural life.

Suggested Time to Spend

Matawai is more a stopover than a destination. If you’re driving the scenic route between Gisborne and the central North Island, plan for a quick hour to stretch your legs, grab a bite at the pub, and snap a photo of the railway station. For hikers heading into Te Urewera, allow a full day to reach Lake Waikaremoana and start the trail.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gisborne City – An hour’s drive east, Gisborne is the main hub with a vibrant food scene, surf beaches, and Māori cultural experiences. Don’t miss the farmers’ market and the Eastwoodhill Arboretum.
• Eastland – The rugged coastline north of Gisborne offers remote beaches, the East Cape Lighthouse, and hot springs at Te Puia. It’s a road trip for those who love wild, untamed scenery.
• Lake Waikaremoana – Part of Te Urewera, this stunning lake is encircled by a world-class walking track. Even if you’re not doing the full trek, day walks and boat trips are rewarding.
• Rere Rockslide – A natural waterslide on the Rere River, about 40 minutes from Matawai. It’s a fun spot for a splash on a warm day – bring a picnic and a sense of adventure.

Please check official sources for current details.