Te Poi at the Foot of the Kaimai Ranges

Te Poi lies at the foot of the Kaimai Ranges. When planning your trip, it is worth making a distinction: the local Māori community and the history of the marae belong to Te Poi; cycling and cultural destinations in the wider Matamata-Piako District broaden your view of the region. When looking for a hotel, you can decide whether Te Poi itself or the wider district should be the focus of your stay.

Māori History in Te Poi

The Māori community of Te Poi is connected with the Ngati Haua, Ngati Raukawa and Ngati Kirihika tribes. Ukaipo Marae on Lower Kaimai Road was established around 1921. Te Omeka Marae opened in 1937, but was destroyed and abandoned five years later. Reconstruction of Te Omeka Marae was completed in 2000; since then, it has once again served as a gathering place for local Māori.

The histories of the two marae differ: Ukaipo Marae is recorded as having been established around 1921, while the history of Te Omeka Marae also includes its destruction, abandonment and reconstruction. If you are planning to visit a marae, please check in advance whether visits are possible.

Local Meeting Place

The Te Poi Pub, also known as the Big Cow, is a meeting place for bikers, clubs and families. The cow outside the pub became a popular attraction visited by people from all over New Zealand. If you are planning specifically to see the cow, check its current condition. If you plan to stop for a drink or meal, check in advance whether the pub is currently operating.

Cycling and Cultural Experiences in the Matamata-Piako District

In the Matamata-Piako District, Te Miro Mountain Bike Park offers more than 27 kilometres of hand-built trails. The routes pass through native bush, pine forest and rolling farmland. The length and scenery give the park a clear profile as a cycling destination; temporary conditions can change. Check the latest trail information before setting out.

The Matamata-Piako District Heritage Trail offers a different kind of experience: it connects Matamata, Te Aroha and Morrinsville and passes historically significant places along the way. A 2009 council brochure puts the route at 159.6 kilometres and describes sections as an option. It also notes that the trail can be accessed at any point along the route. For specific plans, check the current distance and access conditions.

The Heritage Trail connects several towns and historic sites, while Te Miro Mountain Bike Park offers hand-built cycling trails through varied landscapes. This gives you a concrete distinction on which to base your choice in the Matamata-Piako District: historically significant places along a route or a dedicated mountain biking destination.

Historic Structures and Technology

The wider Matamata-Piako District also reflects different facets of history. The Piako County Tramway in Waiorongomai Valley is considered New Zealand’s oldest bush tramway; the original rails are preserved. Firth Tower was built in 1882 by Josiah Clifton Firth as a lookout tower over the surrounding landscape. Together, these examples represent different historical connections: a bush tramway with preserved rails and a tower originally built to provide a view of the surrounding area.

For an overview of the wider destination: Matamata-Piako District.