Increased signs of volcanic activity at Mt Ruapehu

Date:  03 May 2008

The Department of Conservation advises climbers and other visitors considering visiting the summit area of Mt Ruapehu that there may be an increased chance of eruptions from Crater Lake. Risks to people entering the Summit Hazard Zone within about 2 km of Crater Lake are assessed to be higher than normal. Gas concentrations near the lake have increased to levels that will affect some people.

GNS scientists have continued to monitor the activity at Ruapehu since the moderate-sized eruption on 25 September 2007. No further eruptions have occurred, but an increase in gas output and the internal temperature of the volcano represent an anomalous state of activity.

It is unclear if this is a sign of further eruptions in the near future. If there is are further eruptions they may occur without warning. The Alert Level remains at Level One.  GNS Science will continue to re-assess the situation regularly.