A screen shot of steam rising from Whakaari/White Island on 30 October 2025. Photo: Supplied
The volcanic activity level for Whakaari/White Island has been increased after a possible eruption.
GeoNet cameras in the Bay of Plenty showed a small, low-energy eruption possibly occurred on the island at about 12.30pm on Thursday.
Earth Sciences (formerly NIWA) has increased the island's Volcanic Alert Level to level three out of five as a result of webcam observations.
On its website, GeoNet states alert level three means a minor volcanic eruption has occurred or is likely. Level five would mean a major volcanic eruption.
The island would remain at alert level three for at least 48 hours.
Earth Sciences said its Volcano Monitoring Group and National Geohazards Monitoring Centre would continue to closely monitor the Whakaari for any changes in activity.
Further information about the Volcanic Alert Levels and what they mean can be found on GeoNet's website.
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