Te Kuiti
(population 5000)This town is the best base for visiting the Waitomo Caves. Te Kuiti is host to the national sheep sheering championships. Furthermore this town is blessed with a beautiful Maori Marae and a nice atmosphere.
Outdoor
Tramping
There are some nice tramping opportunities in this small town. First of all the Japanese garden and Redwood Park are nice places to wander around in. If you are looking for some more kilometers: walk through town along the Mangaokewa Stream, walk up to Matakiora Pa in Brook Park or climb up to Te Kuiti Lookout.
Culture and Entertainment
Cultural activity
National Sheep Shearing Championship
This is annually held in March and or April. These are the activities: sheep races, Maori Culture, music, barbeques and so on.