Download Volcanic Eruption Hazard Awareness factsheet and map (PDF, 292K)

Rāhui

To ensure that the spiritual, emotional, cultural and physical wellbeing of Tongariro and all people who come to enjoy the experience of Tongariro is kept safe and protected from harm.

Eruptions and the volcanic hazard zones

• The area known as Upper Te Maari Crater on the northern side of Mt Tongariro erupted from several vents on 6 August and 21 November 2012.
• You are still at risk from further volcanic eruptions if you are within the 2 kilometre Active Volcanic Hazard Zone around Te Maari.
• You enter the Te Maari Volcanic Hazard Zone at your own risk.
• You should move quickly through this Volcanic Hazard zone.
• Be aware of the potential of renewed volcanic activity.
• Map of Tongariro Alpine Crossing showing hazard zones (PDF, 296K)

Other hazards within the 2 km volcanic hazard zone

Not normally toxic but move away from the area as quickly as possible:

• Falling ash
• Gas

What to do if there is an eruption

• Stop, watch for burning ash clouds and flying rocks.
• Run away from the path of fast moving burning ash clouds.
• Otherwise find shelter behind something - banks, ridges or in hollows.
• Don’t turn away from flying rocks unless you are sure they won’t hit you.
• Evacuate out of the Hazard Zone along one of the indicated escape routes.
• Your escape route may be uphill, downhill or to the west away from the eruption site.

Always check weather conditions before leaving and wear footwear suitable for rough track conditions.

Te Rūnanganui o Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro
Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro te Hapu
Ngāti Tuwharetoa te Iwi

Related links

• Mt Tongariro eruption
• Central North Island alerts
• Tongariro Alpine Crossing re-opening media release - 24 April 2013