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Locum tenens interested in geology will love paying a visit to Hokianga, New Zealand, where they can see the unusual Koutu Boulders.
These large stones, which measure up to 10 feet in diameter, are littered across the beach between Koutu and Kauwhare Points on the southern end of Hokianga Harbour. The boulders are actually concretions, or hardened clusters of material bound together by a cementing mineral in the middle of larger chunks of sedimentary rock.
Scientists estimate that the Koutu Boulders took up to 5 million years to form. Over time, the forces of erosion whittled away at the softer rock surrounding the stones. Once enough sediment had been eroded away, the boulders were able to roll down onto the beach, where they continue to sit today.
The Koutu Boulders are a great way for people to experience the outdoors as they learn about this incredible geological phenomenon. The stones are best seen on a walk along the beach, and the area's gentle terrain makes the trek an easy one for people of all ages. Hikers should take care only to come within two hours of low tide, however, as the waterline rises too high on the beach to walk safely at other times of the day.