The Battle of the Mountains
The mountains of the central North Island were once living warriors who fought for the love of the beautiful mountain Pihanga. Tongariro, the greatest volcano, won her heart. In jealousy, Taranaki (then located in the center) challenged Tongariro. During their terrible battle, Tongariro erupted in fury and Taranaki was defeated. Wounded and exiled, Taranaki carved a great path as he moved westward, forming the Whanganui River. He now stands alone near the west coast, his peak forever turned away from the central plateau where Pihanga lies. The story also includes Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe, Tongari