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Locum tenens working in New Zealand can explore a wide range of landscapes at Tongariro National Park, the oldest national park in the country.
Situated in the center of New Zealand's North Island, Tongariro is one of just 25 places around the globe to be deemed a mixed cultural and natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The park's natural attractions are centered around Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Tongariro, three volcanoes situated in the center of the reserve. Visitors can hike up the volcanoes in summer or go skiing down the peak's slopes during the winter.
The park's cultural importance stems from its role in the culture of New Zealand's native Maori people. Several Maori religious sites are located throughout the reserve, while the peaks of its three volcanoes are considered to be sacred. In fact, the park was initially established to protect these sites from exploitation by European settlers.
Although it's not as historical as the Maori religious meaning, Tongariro National Park is culturally important for another reason as well—it served as a filming location for Peter Jackson's acclaimed "The Lord of the Rings" movie trilogy.