Matawai

Matawai is a very small settlement on State Highway 2 in the Gisborne Region of New Zealand. It is on the upper reaches of the Motu River, which flows into the eastern Bay of Plenty, and is about half-way between Gisborne and Opotiki.

With a population less than 100, Matawai is a very small village. Despite its size it's a popular destination for mountain bikers, kayakers and other adventurers. This is because the start of the Motu Road Trail and the Motu River are nearby.

• Waterfalls

Matawai is a great summertime destination & if you visit, it's worth venturing a little further out to Motu where you can see the great Motu Falls, kayak along the river or bike the Motu Trails.

• -38.2915177.38411 Manganuku Track. A 4 hour tramping track to the Manganuku Hut (a basic 6 bunk hut). The track follows the Manganuku Stream.  (updated Apr 2026)
• Motu Road Trail. A 67km cycle trail on the first vehicle road to Gisborne, which was first used in 1915. (updated Apr 2026)

Dining in Matawai is very limited with only day time cafes.

• Hard Drive Cafe
• Matawai Camp Store

• Matawai Camp
• -38.291177.38541 Manganuku Campsite. 20 pitch non-powered DoC campsite with flush toilets and water from a stream.  (updated Apr 2026)