These formations were buried by ash deposits from subsequent eruptions, but have been exposed over the past 7,000 years due to coastal erosion.

Allen and Smith suggest that the prevalence of these formations within the Takapuna Lava Forest may be the result of excess methane released by the burning vegetation.

[4] The formation, burial and re-erosion of the Takapuna Fossil Forest pre-date human arrival in New Zealand (based on Hayward's assessment that they have been exposed in the last 7,000 years).

[4] In the 1970s, prior to the Resource Management Act, a large portion of the Takapuna Fossil Forest was destroyed to facilitate the construction of a carpark and boat ramp.

This was done to protect the coast from further erosion, as a sewerage pipe runs along the coastline and was at risk of collapsing causing pollution and damage to the fossil forest.