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Thames is the main commercial centre of the Coromandel District and is rich in gold-mining history. The mine and stamper battery, a local historical museum, the main street and various marked locations around the township reflect the local history. Also of note is the Ngati Maru tribe's Totara Pä and a local war memorial momunment that looks out upon the town.
Late in the nineteenth century Thames was the largest settlement in New Zealand and it was for a long time larger than Auckland City. Now the town has a population of about 10,000 and boasts local arts and pottery, a butterfly garden and various outdoor activities.
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