Bali's international airport has been forced to close its runway, following the eruption of Mount Agung.
Ngurah Rai International Airport, just south of Denpasar has been forced to ground planes and turn away inbound flights following the eruption.
The airport announced earlier this morning it would be closed "due to the volcanic ashes of Mount Agung", and would be making a further assessment whether to open its runway at 7pm local time.
Air New Zealand has cancelled both of its inbound and outbound flights from Bali today, flight NZ245 and NZ246.
The ash cloud poses "a threat to aircraft flying in the area," wrote the Herald's Grant Bradley.
"Volcanic ash is hard and abrasive, and can damage propellers and turbo compressor blades, as well as scratching cockpit windows."
It's unlikely that flights will resume until it is certain that aircraft will not be damaged.
The new direct Emirates EK 451 service between Bali and Auckland has been severely delayed, and was awaiting a decision from the airline.
Mt Agung has seen increased seismic activity since September last year and caused flight delays during another eruption in December.
A 4km exclusion area is still in place around the base of the volcano.
Those travelling to Bali should check with their carrier for the latest news and travel information.