The mountain is considered an ancestor by the indigenous Maori people. The country's parliament unanimously passed the decision, making it the third natural feature in New Zealand to be granted such status. The law guarantees Taranaki Maunga and its surrounding peaks now have the same rights, duties, and protections as individuals.

Mount Taranaki — now known as Taranaki Maunga, its Māori name — is the latest natural feature to be granted personhood in New Zealand.