Otorohanga

Otorohanga is a town in the Waitomo District in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island. It sits in a rural area and is commonly described as the gateway to the Waitomo Caves due to its proximity to the limestone cave system and its role as a service centre for travellers and local farms. The name is of Māori origin; the exact meaning is not definitively recorded.

History: The area was traditionally inhabited by Māori. European settlement expanded in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with the development of roads and rail, leading to the establishment of Otorohanga as a commercial and agricultural service town for surrounding farming communities.

Economy and attractions: The local economy relies on agriculture, local services, and tourism. A major tourist draw is the Otorohanga Kiwi House & Native Bird Park, which offers close-up viewing of native birds, including kiwis. The town is also home to the Otorohanga District Museum. The Waitomo Caves nearby attract visitors throughout the year.

Geography and transportation: The town lies on flat to gently rolling farmland in the western part of the Waikato region. Otorohanga is accessible by road via State Highway 3 and is part of a region with historical railway links that supported local industry and travel.

Demographics and governance: The population is in the low thousands. Otorohanga is part of the Waitomo District, within the Waikato region, and falls under the Waitomo District Council and Waikato Regional Council.