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.