The scenic city of Queenstown is full of attractions, such as Skycity Queenstown Casino and Steamer Wharf, and is loved for its skiing and hiking trails.
Hobbiton Movie Set is 6.6 mi (10.6 km) from central Matamata, and is a popular place to see during your stay. If you'd also like to explore some of the parks in Matamata, head to Founders Park and Maungatautari Ecological Island.
If you're planning a bit of sightseeing head to Sky Tower— just one of the monuments in Auckland Central Business District. Hotels.com travelers also say the area is full of friendly people and has lots of nice beaches. It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander.
Explore the great outdoors at Aoraki / Mount Cook and enjoy the stunning glacier views during your trip to Mount Cook. Wander the lakeside in this quaint area.
Enjoy the mountain views and explore Mount Cook National Park, a lovely green space in Mount Cook. Discover the spas in this walkable area, or seek out its hiking trails.
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Milford Sound during your travels in Fiordland National Park. Discover the area's waterfalls and glaciers.
Check out reviews of New Zealand hotels guests love
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
10/10 Excellent
"The staff were qonderful. We dealt with Kenneth who was fabulous to deal with!
Everything was seamless and such clean snuggly rooms with fantastic location right in the middle of Lampton Quay. "
"Room was amazing with great views. However the 2 bedrooms get really hot since there is no AC in the bedrooms and the sun is super hot with the windows. The dinning room area had AC. Service of the staff was great and restaurant below was excellent too!"
"Great location with a clean, well-appointed room. The staff, especially the concierge were very helpful, friendly, and accommodating. I would stay there again and recommend it to others."
Family fun in New Zealand: Kid-friendly activities
New Zealand is packed with family-centric activities that make it a must-visit destination for those with children. First, explore the stunning landscapes and geothermal wonders of Rotorua, where kids will love the bubbling mud pools and geysers. Next, visit the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, where families can step into the enchanting world of "The Lord of the Rings" and enjoy a guided tour of this iconic film location. For a taste of adventure, head to Queenstown, known for its outdoor activities like bungee jumping and jet boating, which can be exhilarating for older kids and teens. The Auckland Zoo offers a fun and educational experience, showcasing native wildlife and exotic animals that will captivate younger visitors. Lastly, don’t miss the stunning beaches of the Bay of Islands, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing in the sun. A great area to stay while exploring these attractions is Rotorua, where family-friendly hotels often offer amenities like pools and activities designed for kids, making it easy to unwind after a day of adventure. Enjoy the excitement of discovering New Zealand together, with plenty of opportunities for fun and bonding along the way!
