Mata Mata Farm

Mata Mata Farm is a working high-country sheep and cattle station near Hanmer Springs, offering an authentic glimpse into New Zealand's farming heritage. Set against a backdrop of rolling hills and the distant Southern Alps, the farm provides a hands-on experience that combines rural life with stunning scenery.

Highlights & What to See

• Farm Tour: Join a guided tour to learn about sheep shearing, cattle mustering, and the daily operations of a working farm. You'll see working dogs in action and maybe even bottle-feed a lamb.
• 4WD Adventure: Explore the rugged terrain on a 4WD vehicle, traversing steep hills and riverbeds while taking in panoramic views of the Hanmer Basin.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for native birds like the New Zealand falcon (kārearea) and introduced species such as red deer and wallabies.
• Sheep Shearing Demonstration: Watch a skilled shearer at work, and learn about the different wool types from Merino and Romney sheep.
• Historic Woolshed: Visit the century-old woolshed, which retains its original kauri timber and tells stories of early settler life.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for a half-day visit, around 3–4 hours, to fully enjoy the farm tour and 4WD experience. The tours typically run in the morning or afternoon, so you can easily combine it with a relaxing soak in the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools later in the day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs: Unwind in the famous thermal pools, try mountain biking on the Woodend Track, or hike up Mount Isobel.
• Waiau Ferry Bridge: A historic bridge over the Waiau River, perfect for a photo stop and a short walk along the riverbank.
• Conical Hill Walk: A short but steep climb through beech forest offering panoramic views of the Hanmer basin.
• Hanmer Springs Forest: Explore the network of walking and biking trails through towering pines and along the river.

Please check official sources for current details.