[1] An age of 123 ± 10 ka has been challenged and potentially redating suggests first formation greater than 180,000 years ago.

[3]: 13, 284  The more recent eruptions are consistent with the north-north-east to south-south-west alignment of the present southern Taupō Volcanic Zone rifting.

Its slopes are covered in native bush and currently part of a major nature conservation project.

Tongariro's victory resulted in Taranaki's banishment to the west coast, with his movement creating features such as the Whanganui and Pātea Rivers, and the Ngaere swamp.

Some members of the chieftain line of the Matapuna people, who held mana, were given the honor of being buried on the mountain.