Volcanic alert continues on White Island

Small amounts of volcanic ash erupted from White Island yesterday. Photo/file

Following a minor volcanic eruption on White Island yesterday morning there has been no change in the level of activity.

The Volcanic Alert Level was raised from one to three yesterday and today remains at level three.

The level of volcanic activity yesterday and overnight was minor, with small amounts of volcanic ash being emitted from vents in the active crater.

GNS duty volcanologist Steve Sherburn said seismic activity and gas flux remained low though ash and steam were affecting cameras and limiting observations.

"The poor light conditions and local high cloud make it difficult to assess the amount of ash present.

"It does appear the bulk of the emission was yesterday and only minor amounts are now present."

Mr Sherburn said if ash emissions were to increase there was a low possibility of traces of ash reaching the East Cape.

He said implications for visitor safety remained unclear.