An eruption occurred at Tongariro at approximately 11:50 pm last night, (Monday August 6).
GNS Science has issued an ash fall projection. This morning, flights between Auckland and Napier have been cancelled as a precautionary measure.
Volcanic ash can damage jet engines (see commentary on last year’s Chilean volcanic eruption and more commentary here on 2010’s volcanic eruption in Iceland.
The SMC is gathering reaction from experts. Contact the SMC if you need assistance finding an expert 04 499 5476 / 021 859 365
News coverage
NZ Herald: Tongariro eruption – code red