Edgecumbe

Edgecumbe is a town in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand's North Island. Situated inland from the coast, it lies approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) east of Kawerau and 50 kilometers (31 miles) southeast of Tauranga.

Edgecumbe is located on the Rangitaiki Plains and is primarily an agricultural service town. Dairy farming and horticulture are key industries in the surrounding area.

The town's history is closely tied to the Rangitaiki River and the development of the Rangitaiki Plains. It suffered significant flooding in 1987 when a breach occurred in a stopbank along the river. This event led to extensive damage and required a major recovery effort.

Edgecumbe has a primarily rural character with a range of local amenities including schools, shops, and community facilities. Its population fluctuates but generally numbers in the low thousands.