New Zealand's team have praised the reception and facilities on offer in Stockport.
The majority of the 22-strong squad, made up of 19 athletes and six officials, arrived at the weekend to fine tune their preparations for the Games.
"The people have been great - we have definitely chosen the right place," said team manager Ken Simpson.
"We have had a great reception with the mayor and are impressed with the training facilities.
"We can't wait for the Games to get underway - they will be the biggest multi-sport event this country has seen since the 1948 London Olympic Games."
The team will use Woodbank Park as a training base before moving into the athletes' village on Friday.
Simpson picked out discus thrower Beatrice Faumuina and 50km walker Craig Barrett as possible medal winners.
He added: "Craig was leading the 50km walk in Kuala Lumpur, but collapsed with dehydration so I guess he has a point to prove while Beatrice is the defending champion."
The team attended an official reception at the town hall yesterday (Tuesday) and will meet the younger Stockport Harriers at the Woodbank track tomorrow (Thursday).