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Definition of mataura
mataura
/məˈtaʊ.rə/
Ma · tau · ra
mataura Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
11
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
New Zealand A small town situated in the Southland region of the South Island of New Zealand, historically known for its meatworks and paper milling industry.
Example
"The town of Mataura has a rich industrial heritage centered around the historic paper mill that operated beside the falls."
2
New Zealand A major river in the South Island of New Zealand that flows through the Southland region, internationally renowned as a premier destination for brown trout fishing.
Example
"Anglers travel from around the world to cast their dry flies in the clear waters of the Mataura River."
• Rhymes for mataura
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed from the Māori language, traditionally derived from 'mata' (face, eye, or surface) and 'ura' (red or glowing), often interpreted as 'reddish swamp' or 'glowing face'.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Mataura. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/mataura