Matawai, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Matawai, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to Matawai, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Matawai, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in Matawai, New Zealand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Matawai, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Matawai, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Matawai, New Zealand by month

January

If you go to Matawai in January, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matawai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

February for Matawai is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matawai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

If you vacation in Matawai during March, you might notice that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matawai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

April

If you go to Matawai in April, you will notice that it is crisp and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C). There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matawai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

If you are traveling to Matawai in May, you will notice that it is crisp and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matawai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

June

Traveling to Matawai in June, you will notice that it is brisk and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matawai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

July

Traveling to Matawai in July, you will notice that it is cold and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (single digits C). There is frost regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matawai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

August

Traveling to Matawai in August, you will notice that it is cold and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matawai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

September

If you visit Matawai during September, you will probably find that it can be chilly and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matawai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

October

October in this region is chilly and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matawai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you visit Matawai during November, you are likely to find that it is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matawai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

December in Matawai is balmy and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matawai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

What to do in Matawai, New Zealand

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Gisborne district, Matawai is a quaint little town that is quickly growing into a popular tourist destination in New Zealand. It is well-known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor activities. Visitors coming to Matawai can expect to find plenty of exciting things to do and places to explore.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Matawai that you should definitely consider visiting:

1. Rere Rockslide

The Rere Rockslide is a natural waterslide that has become a must-visit attraction in Matawai. The slide is a 60-meter-long surface of smooth rock that creates a perfect chute for exciting, fast-paced slides. The rockslide is located within the Rere Falls Reserve area and is surrounded by lush vegetation and beautiful sceneries. It is an excellent spot for a family outing or a fun day out with friends.

2. Rere Falls

Rere Falls is another attraction located within the Rere Falls Reserve in Matawai. The falls are a stunning example of natural beauty and are a popular site for both tourists and locals. The water cascades over a series of rock formations into a deep pool, creating an impressive spectacle of thundering water. Visitors can enjoy swimming or kayaking in the pools or simply enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings.

3. Mount Titirangi

Mount Titirangi is a popular hiking spot located on the outskirts of Matawai. It offers visitors a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding landscape. The hike to the summit is well marked and takes about an hour, but it can be challenging in some parts. Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with breath-taking views of the Pacific Ocean, the Gisborne district, and the Tairawhiti ranges.

4. Matawai Museum

The Matawai Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of the region. The museum houses an extensive collection of artefacts, photographs, and documents that detail the lives of the Maori and European settlers who once lived in the area. Visitors can learn about the local industries, such as farming, forestry, and hunting, and view antique machinery used through the ages.

5. Eastwoodhill Arboretum

Eastwoodhill Arboretum is New Zealand’s national arboretum, and it is located just outside Matawai. It is home to over 4,000 exotic and native trees and shrubs, as well as a range of bird species. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the gardens and enjoy the beauty of the trees and flowers or take a guided tour of the facility.

In summary, Matawai is a town that offers plenty of attractions that cater to diverse interests. Whether you are looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience at the Rere Rockslide or want to take a hike up Mount Titirangi, you will find something to suit you. The region’s rich history and natural beauty are just waiting for you to explore. With so many exciting things to do and see, Matawai should definitely be on your list of places to visit in New Zealand.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Patan, India, I-380 Corridor, Iowa, United States of America, M'Hamid, Morocco, Liverpool, England, United Kingdom, San Saba, Texas, United States of America, Chinnadagudihundi, India, Taichung, Taiwan, Vrsar, Croatia, The Pas, Manitoba, Canada, Nangqen, China, and Harrisburg area, Pennsylvania, United States of America.