We then needed to head south, and conveniently our route took us through the town of Matamata, known to Lord of the Rings fans as the filming location of the Shire. Truth be told, although the town leads tours to the filming site, 90% of the sets have been dismantled and there is really very little left. But, as you drive through this region, you definitely can see why Peter Jackson chose it. I'm pretty certain Hobbits live here if they existed. Matamata is understandably proud of their association with the films, as evidenced by some of the décor on Main Street.
We spent one day in the city of Taupo, situated on the edge of Lake Taupo, a giant lake formed within a volcanic caldera, complete with a southern backdrop view of the snow-covered volcanic mountains of Tongariro National Park. It’s an attractive town, with lots of fun shops, cafes and restaurants. Sadly, we could only stay one night (just like our last trip) so we were left wanting more. The temperatures were noticeably colder in Taupo, and in the higher elevations, which gave me constant shivers. I think my body is rejecting this whole “winter in August” thing in the worst way.
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