Welcome to Firth Tower

Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of our gardens, wide lawns and shady trees. Picnic under the venerable oaks or take a stroll. Learn something of life in a more leisured age through our museum displays housed in 13 buildings. 

The Firth Tower was built in 1882 by Josiah Clifton Firth to provide a lookout over the country side.  It was also used as the estate office and sleeping quarters for single men. The tower stands on rising ground commanding an extensive view of the surrounding country. The Firth Tower Historical Reserve is administered by the Matamata-Piako District Council and museum exhibits and displays are the work of the Matamata Historical Society. The Heritage Centre houses the archives of the Matamata area.

Opening Hours

Historic buildings

Monday 9am-3pm
Tuesday, Wednesday - Closed
Thursday, Friday 9am-3pm
Saturday, Sunday 10am-4pm

Grounds only 

10am - 4pm

Holiday Opening Hours

Open:

Monday 23rd Dec 9am-3pm 

Closed:

Tuesday 24th Dec,
Wednesday 25th Dec,
Thursday 26th Dec

Open:

Friday 27th Dec 9am-3pm,
Saturday 28th Dec 10am-4pm,
Sunday 29th Dec 10am-4pm,
Monday 30th Dec 9am-3pm

Closed:

Tuesday 31st Dec,
Wednesday 1st Jan,
Thursday 2nd Jan

Open:

Friday 3rd Jan 9am-3pm

Normal business hours resume Monday 6th Jan

Entry fees

Museum Admission
Adults $10
Seniors (65+) $5
Child (5-16) $5
Grounds FREE