If you will tear yourself away from the hobbits who dwell in Hobbiton at Matamata, you would do well to venture a short drive to Te Aroha and be charmed by the Victorian gardens, be energised by the 3 km hike up Mt Te Aroha then be pampered in the town’s naturally hot soda spa. When I was there last year, I know I didn’t want to leave. If you are a photography enthusiast or an artist, you will find much to inspire your art and keep you there.

Of course, if you are a foodie like me, you can’t be at Te Aroha and not enjoy brunch on the balcony of the Domain Cottage Cafe. The coffee is superb and the lime tart is delectable. For dinner, the pubs serve up more than decent meat and veg menus which leave you well satisfied. Should you crave for something more scrumptious, you can’t go past the Ironique with its rustic iron and timber decor and uber friendly staff. I highly recommend the beef ribs but have to warn you that the portion size will make it unwise to venture into the spa immediately after dinner.

The photos in this post are but a sampling of my album on Te Aroha. I had a restful and inspired time there and look forward to another immersion.