Unique Experiences in Matakana & Warkworth
August in Matakana and Warkworth is a special time. Crisp air, quieter streets, and a slower pace invite you to explore local culture, nature, and craft in a new way. Here are some unique activities to enjoy during this still-cold month.
Carve Your Own Greenstone Pendant
Discover the ancient art of carving Pounamu (greenstone) at Matakana Carving. In a welcoming studio nestled in Matakana Country Park, you can spend a few hours crafting your very own jade pendant. Guided by expert carvers, this hands-on experience connects you to Māori traditions while creating a meaningful souvenir to treasure. It is a meditative, creative way to warm up indoors on a chilly day.
Taste Rich Flavours and Learn About Bees
Just outside Matakana, Beetopia NZ Honey Tasting Shed invites you to savour a wide range of 100% raw New Zealand honeys, including unique native varieties like Mānuka, Rewarewa, and Tāwari. Beyond tasting, Beetopia offers immersive learning experiences with their Beginner’s Beekeeping Courses, where you can gain hands-on knowledge about hive management, bee biology, and sustainable beekeeping. These courses provide full protective gear and are perfect for anyone curious about the fascinating world of bees. It is a sweet and enriching stop that warms you from the inside out during the chilly winter days.
Beetopia
Escape Into Film at Matakana Cinema’s Japanese Film Festival
Opened in 2007, this three-screen boutique complex features stunning design details: the Tivoli boasts a beautiful chandelier, while the Paradiso is adorned with 32,000 cloth roses, and the Roxy provides a cozy, silk-draped boudoir-like atmosphere. Curl up in one of the comfy seats at Matakana Cinemas and immerse yourself in the captivating stories of the Japanese Film Festival running through August. From timeless classics to contemporary gems, this festival is a cultural feast for film lovers. The boutique cinema’s intimate atmosphere and warm setting make it an ideal escape from the cold.
Matakana Boutique Cinema
Explore Warkworth’s Scenic Trails on Horseback
Experience the stunning Warkworth countryside with a guided trek from Horse Riding Warkworth. Whether you are a novice or experienced rider, meandering through farmland and native bush with a horse companion brings a unique perspective to the landscape. The cool air and peaceful surroundings create a refreshing outdoor adventure that is both invigorating and soothing.
August’s chill invites you to slow down, connect deeply with your surroundings, and experience Matakana and Warkworth in a uniquely intimate way. Stay with us at Woodhouse Mountain Lodge, a serene retreat nestled in the Matakana hills. We are the perfect base for making your escape truly unforgettable.