NZ volcano...

[Gob]

A volcano has erupted in New Zealand, leaving one dead and several unaccounted for, police have said.



Tourists were seen walking inside the rim of the White Island crater just moments before the eruption. (circled in image.)

Police said 23 people had been rescued, but warned the number of dead was "likely" to rise. The area is currently too dangerous for a rescue operation.

White Island, also known as Whakaari, is one of the country's most active volcanoes.

Despite that, the island is a tourist destination with frequent day tours and scenic flights available.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said there were "a number" of tourists on or around the island, both from New Zealand and overseas.

"I know there will be a huge amount of concern and anxiety for those who have loved ones at the island at that time - and I can assure them police are doing everything they can," she said.

She said police had launched a search and rescue operation but falling ash was hampering attempts to get to the site.

Deputy police commissioner John Tims said "at this stage, it is too dangerous for police and rescue services to go to the island," adding that the island was "covered in ash and volcanic material".

"We continue to assess the conditions that would allow us to go on to the island... we are taking expert advice with regards to the safety of any rescue attempt."

Police initially said there were 100 people on or near the island, then later revised down the number to 50.

Some of the visitors are thought to be passengers from cruise ship Ovation of the Seas, owned by Royal Caribbean. It is currently at port in Tauranga, a coastal city near White Island.

[ex-khobar Andy]

The Guardian is saying five dead and "up to two dozen people remain unaccounted for."

[Long Run]

Waiver and release. Wonder if there were any signs of likely eruption being imminent.

[Sue U]

Waiver and release. Wonder if there were any signs of likely eruption being imminent.

New Zealand did away with negligence-based tort law nearly 50 years ago, replacing it with a universal no-fault compensation fund for all types of injury.