national park in New Zealand
Tongariro National Park (; Māori: [tɔŋaɾiɾɔ]), located in the central North Island, is the oldest national park in New Zealand and the sixth national park established in the world. It has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its mixed cultural and natural values. The active volcanic mountains Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro are located in the centre of the park. Three ski fields operate from the slopes of Mount Ruapehu, and the park is also a popular recreation area for hiking, fishing, hunting and other outdoor pursuits. Tongariro National Park is home to the famed Tongariro Alpine Crossing, widely regarded as one of the world's best one-day hikes. The natural environment of the park ranges from temperate rainforest to beech forest, tussock shrubland and alpine ecosystems. A variety of endemic and native birds and plants are found in the park. There are a number of Māori religious sites within the park, and many of the park's summits, including Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu, are tapu, or sacred. There are many small towns around the boundary of the park including Ohakune, Waiouru, Horopito, Pokaka, Erua, National Park Village and Tūrangi.
