Firth Tower & Open Air Historical Village Guide
Updated: Oct 12
A standout heritage attraction in the Waikato, Firth Tower offers a deeper look at New Zealand’s rural past just minutes from Matamata. Set on a quiet rural site, this open-air museum features over 13 heritage buildings, showcasing early farming life, local history, and community stories. It’s one of the most complete heritage collections in the region.
Top sights include:
Early New Zealand cinema collection, including links to Waharoa’s film history
Exhibitions on war, local settlement, and pre-European Māori life
Extensive farming equipment displays reflecting Waikato’s agricultural roots
Heritage gardens and shaded picnic areas
Direct access to the Te Aroha shared trail (2km walk from town)
Seasonal programmes and family-friendly activities
Firth Tower is best visited as part of a wider Matamata stay, adding depth beyond Hobbiton and connecting visitors to the region’s history and landscape. Matamata is also a convenient base for visiting Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves.
✈️ Final Thought
Firth Tower isn’t a headline attraction. That’s the point. It adds context to the region, grounding the Waikato’s landscapes in real stories of farming, settlement, and community. Paired with a stay in Matamata, it turns a single-stop visit into a more complete experience; one that’s less about ticking off sights and more about understanding the place.
Where to stay
Browse places to stay in Matamata on Booking.com.
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FAQs
Where is Firth Tower?
Firth Tower is on Tower Road, about 2 km from Matamata township, so it is an easy stop on the way in or out of town.
When is Firth Tower open?
The museum is usually open Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm, and closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and public holidays. Check with the Matamata-Piako District Council before you go.
How long do you need at Firth Tower?
Allow one to two hours to see the tower, the heritage buildings and the gardens, and a little longer if you bring a picnic.
Is Firth Tower good for families?
Yes. The open-air setting, farm machinery displays, picnic areas and seasonal family activities make it an easy outing with children.
Can you visit Firth Tower and Hobbiton on the same day?
Yes. Both are close to Matamata. Book your Hobbiton tour ahead and use Firth Tower to add some real local history to the day.
Keep exploring the Waikato
Start here: Waikato Scenic Drive Guide: Backroads, Farmland and Small-Town Detours
Waikato Savvy Swaps: Smarter Ways to Explore New Zealand's Heartland
Matamata Savvy Swaps: Beyond Hobbiton & Into the Waikato Countryside
Hobbiton Through the Lens: Rolling Hills, Rural Atmosphere & Cinematic Countryside
Cambridge NZ Travel Guide: Slow Travel and Local Experiences
Te Aroha Slow Travel Guide: New Zealand's Most Interesting Deliberate Detour
