In 1993 Tongariro became the first property to be inscribed on the World Heritage List under the revised criteria describing cultural landscapes. The mountains at the heart of the park have cultural and religious significance for the Maori people and symbolize the spiritual links between this community and its environment. The park has active and extinct volcanoes, a diverse range of ecosystems and some spectacular landscapes. A place of contrasting landscapes, Tongariro National Park is encircled by three volcanoes. Tongariro National Park was given to the nation by the Maori Chief as a gift in 1877. Holding the title of the oldest national park in New Zealand, UNESCO awarded it with the status of a World Heritage Site. You can spend hours gawking at the emerald lakes and alpine meadows that are an absolute treat. While all of the three volcanoes are pretty much active, this does not deter people from taking a hike. One of the most popular things to do here is to embark on the 12 mile long tramp, known as the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This track introduces you to some of the most awe-inspiring natural sceneries you could ever lay your eyes on.