Matamata Market and Craft Fair

The Good Life Retreat has been designed and built with relaxation, privacy and a true nature-immersed experience in mind. Each exquisite room ensures sole access to the Retreat, its luxury facilities as well as our unique animal feeding experience. Make yourself at home in our bespoke accommodation in Cambridge, swim in the heated pool, soak in the spa, enjoy the sauna after a workout in our state-of-the-art gym. And don't forget to explore our wine cellar before dinner. Roasting marshmallows over the firepit after cooking pizzas on the wood fired outdoor over, it doesn't get better than this. And of course, there are the many animals to feed and enjoy. Immerse yourself in the beauty of our New Zealand landscape from bedroom and beyond.

Off-grid, and built with sustainability in mind, Buster has a Scandinavian simplicity. The birch interior is restful and calm. Natural linens adorn the bed and large windows take in the surroundings. The hut blends seamlessly into its setting with careful landscaping and native plantings. The hut contains a bathroom, and kitchen and sleeps up to four guests in a queen bed and cosy upstairs loft bed. A deck, wood-fired hot tub and firepit are just outside, perfect for taking in the sight and sound of the Waihou river flowing past. In the evenings, get cosy in the hut with the wood burner or head outside to toast marshmallows over the fire pit and enjoy a star-filled sky.

This peaceful location is positioned for a day of relaxation, adventure or a road trip to Rotorua, Waitomo, and other destinations. A unique self-contained Studio with private courtyard, BBQ, private ensuite and kitchenette with continental breakfast provided. The Studio comes with air-conditioning, seating area, along with a modern and relaxing décor and privacy. Matamata Lodge is the perfect location to base yourself for one night or more. With so many local attractions and experiences like the Hobbiton Movie, Te Waihou Walkway, Blue Water Springs and Wairere Falls at your doorstep. Unwind and soak in the scenery of rolling pastures, Kaimai ranges, stunning sunsets and star gazing.

This beautifully decorated tiny home features a fully equipped kitchen, cosy bedroom with an ensuite bathroom and space to simply chill. But the real luxury lies outside—soak in the outdoor bath under the stars, unwind in the Panorama Sauna, or gather around the outdoor fire to toast marshmallows. Wander the property’s walkways alongside tranquil ponds, climb to the top for sunrise views, or relax on the large front deck with your morning coffee. Challenge friends to kubb (a lawn game) or corn hole, fire up the Weber BBQ, and let the peace and quiet work its magic. Just a five-minute walk from Lake Karāpiro and less than ten minutes' drive from Cambridge, you’re perfectly positioned to explore—or stay put and soak in the serenity.

The Mighty River Domain at Lake Karapiro is situated six kilometres south of Cambridge in the Waipa District. Our 18 hectare domain is open for public access all year round. With a range of facilities, it's the perfect location for aquatic and land-based events. Our world-class Sir Don Rowlands Centre can be hired for family, community, national and international events. We also offer affordable outdoor recreation activities and accommodation including camping, cabins and lodges. There are several walking tracks nearby including the internationally significant Maungatautari Ecological Island Reserve which features a 16 metre high forest canopy viewing tower, a 600 year old rata and flourishing native species.

We are now able to offer our newly completed stand alone Chalet called The Oarhouse with a much envied aspect overlooking Lake Karapiro. It has two suites each with either one Californian bed plus one single or three single beds for up to 6 guests. Each suite has its own en-suite. There is a large lounge / dining room with schist fireplace, full kitchen, separate laundry, carport and extensive decking overlooking the lake. We feel The Oar House would not be out of place amongst New Zealand’s finest.