Page "Mount Taranaki" Paragraph 17

According to Māori mythology, Taranaki once resided in the middle of the North Island, with all the other New Zealand volcanoes.

The beautiful Pihanga was coveted by all the mountains, and a great battle broke out between them.

Tongariro eventually won the day, inflicted great wounds on the side of Taranaki, and causing him to flee.

Taranaki headed westwards, following Te Toka a Rahotu ( the Rock of Rahotu ) and forming the deep gorges of the Whanganui River, paused for a while, creating the depression that formed the Te Ngaere swamp, then heading north.

Further progress was blocked by the Pouakai ranges, and as the sun came up Taranaki became petrified in his current location.

When Taranaki conceals himself with rainclouds, he is said to be crying for his lost love, and during spectacular sunsets, he is said to be displaying himself to her.

In turn, Tongariro's eruptions are said to be a warning to Taranaki not to return.