Matamata / Waitomo Tours

Take the opportunity to explore the Matamata / Waitomo region with a selection of pre and post-symposium tours. Enjoy discounted rates and discover some of the area’s most popular attractions.

Matamata location 1

Waitomo Glowworm Caves or Black Water Rafting Caves

The Waitomo Caves in New Zealand are a world-renowned natural wonder, famous for their stunning underground landscapes and magical glowworm displays. Located in the Waikato region, the caves are part of a vast network of over 300 limestone caverns, formed over millions of years through geological and volcanic activity

When booking, use the discount code CORAL2026 for a 5% discount. Offer is valid for tour dates: 18th July, 25th July, 26th July 2026.

Hobbiton Tour & Lunch

Hobbiton is a world-famous movie set in Matamata, New Zealand, where visitors can explore the lush, green village of the Shire from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies, complete with Hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and stunning countryside scenery.

A group booking is currently being held:

  • Saturday 18 July - 11.20am - limited spots available
  • Saturday 18 July - 11.50am - limited spots available

Cost per person - NZ$350 including bus transfer return from Auckland.
Note that the transfer time from AKL to Hobbiton is 2.5-3hrs (traffic dependent). Therefore departure from Auckland would be 8.00am & 8:30am.
Return from Hobbiton to AKL would be 2.30pm & 3.00pm - ETA in AKL 5.30pm & 6.00pm.

Bookings can be made during the registration process or by emailing teawa@conference.nz with your preferred tour time.

Hobbiton Evening Tour & Banquet

Hobbiton is a world-famous movie set in Matamata, New Zealand, where visitors can explore the lush, green village of the Shire from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies, complete with Hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and stunning countryside scenery.

A group booking is currently being held:

  • Saturday 25 July - 3.30pm - limited spots available
  • Sunday 26 July - 3.30pm - limited spots available

Cost per person - NZ$350 including bus transfer return from Auckland.
Note that the transfer time from AKL to Hobbiton is 2.5-3hrs (traffic dependent). Therefore departure from Auckland would be 12.15pm.
Return from Hobbiton to AKL would be 8.00pm - ETA in AKL 11.00pm.

Bookings can be made during the registration process or by emailing teawa@conference.nz with your preferred tour date.

Symposium hosted by
Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

VUW Logo OFFSHORE Standard Landscape WHITE