Five people are confirmed dead
New Zealand Defence Force join police in Rescue Operation
Royal Caribbean spokesperson told Newshub: a number of our guests were touring the island ehrn the eruption occurred
Prime Minister's Office says more than 20 Australians were on the island when the volcano erupted
Volcanologists have confirmed it was the biggest eruption in recent history
Ashfall might affect wider areas - Ministry of Civil Defense
Australian PM Scott Morrison offers "full support" to Ardern following the eruption
Ovation of the Seas cruise ship will not be departing Tauranga as scheduled, passengers shocked at White Island horror
Police in New Zealand have confirmed one dead and at least another person was left in a critical condition when country's White Island volcano erupted suddenly on Monday, ading that the police say 'too dangerous' to carry out volcano rescue operations, leaving authorities scrambling to treat the injured and find those unaccounted for. AFP
Several people are unaccounted for, police have said on Monday. 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.
Close to 50 people were on White Island when it erupted on Monday afternoon and many of them remain unaccounted for. "We believe around 100 people were on or around the island at the time, and some of those are at this stage unaccounted for," she told reporters. PM said.
5 people who were rescued earlier on Monday have died, police confirmed.Several people are unaccounted for, police have said on Monday. 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.
Close to 50 people were on White Island when it erupted on Monday afternoon and many of them remain unaccounted for. "We believe around 100 people were on or around the island at the time, and some of those are at this stage unaccounted for," she told reporters. PM said.
The physical environment on White Island remains too unsafe for rescuers and emergency services to return. It is currently a no-fly zone.
In a police briefing, Deputy Police Commissioner John Tims said due to the risks, emergency services were not able to access the island.
A number of people have been taken to Whakatane and Middlemore Hospitals, many suffering from burns. It is still too early for police to confirm how many were involved.
"We believe a number of these tourists have come from the Ovation of the Seas cruise ship," Tims said.
Tims said police are "unsure" of the wellbeing of those on the island. They remain uncertain of the exact number of people remaining on the volcano.
"We're working with a range of people to identify the numbers and names of those on the island and who have visited the island. It takes time. We have to make sure we have the right information.
"Experts say it is unsafe for us to go onto the island."
Tims confirmed the deceased are from "a range" of nationalities, but they are unconfirmed.
A number has been set up so the friends and family of those involved can make contact with the police.
People within New Zealand can call 105 or get in contact through the police website.
A number for people overseas will be provided shortly.
The Red Cross has activated the Family Links website so people can register themselves as safe or submit an inquiry about a loved one.
"Our thoughts are absolutely with the friends and family."
"The NZDF will be working under the direction of NZ Police but has sent a number of assets to the area to help as needed.
"A Royal New Zealand Air Force P-3K2 Orion aircraft has flown over White Island carrying out surveillance over the area, and two NH90 helicopters have flown to Whakatane to assist.
"Royal New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Wellington is currently transiting from Auckland to Whakatane to offer support.
"Our thoughts are with everyone affected."
Royal Caribbean spokesperson told Newshub: a number of our guests were touring the island ehrn the eruption occurred
A Royal Caribbean spokesperson told Newshub: "We can confirm that a number of our guests were touring the island today. We do not have any additional details to share at this time.
"Ovation of the Seas will remain overnight until we learn more about the situation. We will offer all possible assistance to our guests and local authorities.
"Please keep all those affected in your prayers."
One dead in New Zealand volcanic eruption, more likely: police
Police in New Zealand have confirmed one dead and at least another person was left in a critical condition when country's White Island volcano erupted suddenly on Monday, ading that the police say 'too dangerous' to carry out volcano rescue operations, leaving authorities scrambling to treat the injured and find those unaccounted for. AFP
Several people are unaccounted for, police have said on Monday. 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.
Close to 100 people were on White Island when it erupted on Monday afternoon and many of them remain unaccounted for. "We believe around 100 people were on or around the island at the time, and some of those are at this stage unaccounted for," she told reporters. PM said.
Volcanologists have confirmed it was the biggest eruption in recent history. GNS volcanologist Brad Scott told Magic Talk's Ryan Bridge it was a significant eruption.
"It was quite an explosive eruption and significantly impacted the island and the main crater floor area.
"Unfortunately there's not a lot of shelter on the island - the people on the island were quite exposed. We have significant concern for people that may have been on the island."
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the volcanic island -- also known as Whakaari -- off New Zealand's north coast had erupted while groups of tourists were visiting.
The PM confirmed that foreigners were among those caught in New Zealand volcano eruption.
"It is very much an evolving situation and of course all our thoughts are with those affected," she told reporters in Wellington, adding that an undetermined number of people were unaccounted for.
Police said the eruption occurred about 2:11pm local time (0111 GMT) and there had been around 50 people nearby -- fewer than the 100 officials originally estimated.
"Some of those people have been transported to shore, however a number believed to be on the island are currently unaccounted for," the force said in a statement.
"Of those transported to shore, at least one has been critically injured."
St John Ambulance said there were up to 20 people believed injured but medical teams were still en route.
"Emergency services are currently frantically trying to get these people back from the island to hospital for treatment," Whakatane mayor Judy Turner told AFP.
There were particular fears for a group of visitors seen walking on the crater floor moments before the eruption occurred.
Cameras providing a live feed from the volcano showed more than half a dozen people inside the rim before images went dark when the eruption occurred minutes later.
- 'Five made it back' -
The country's National Emergency Management Agency described the eruption as "moderate", although a thick plume of white ash could be seen for miles around.
Several helicopters and aircraft were seen in the area and survivors were pulled off the island in tour boats.
White Island is about 50 kilometres (30 miles) offshore in the picturesque Bay of Plenty and is popular with adventurous tourists willing to don hard hats and gas masks.
At least one group, four tourists and one pilot, who flew to the island on a Volcanic Air helicopter were accounted for, despite landing shortly before the eruption.
Last photos: here are the White Island Tour operators rescuing people, timestamp 14:24 (~12-14 minutes after eruption) by Michael Schade @sch
The New Zealand's Ministry of Civil Defence warns it is hazardous in the immediate vicinity of the volcano, and ashfall might affect wider areas.
Th ministry said People living in or near the affected ashfall areas should be aware of the potential for ashfall. Consider staying indoors. Volcanic ash could be a health hazard, especially if you suffer from breathing difficulties
When indoors, close all windows and doors to limit the entry of volcanic ash
Listen to the radio and/or TV for further assessment and updates
Morrison said Australians have been caught up in the "terrible tragedy" and their wellbeing is yet to be determined.
A terrible tragedy is unfolding in NZ after the volcano eruption on Whakaari/White Island. Australians have been caught up in this terrible event and we are working to determine their wellbeing.— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) December 9, 2019
I have been in touch with @jacindaardern to offer our full support with whatever they need and our authorities are working closely together. I will be staying in direct contact as events continue to unfold. We will provide updates once they are confirmed and are available.— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) December 9, 2019
Later reports by 7NEWS Melbourne citing the Prime Minister's Office also confirmed that more than 20 Australians were on the island when the volcano erupted
7NEWS Melbourne
✔@7NewsMelbourne Replying to @7NewsMelbourne
White Island, New Zealand: One person has died but recovery teams fear the toll is expected to rise following a volcano eruption. The Prime Minister's Office says more than 20 Australians were on the island when the volcano erupted.
Cruise ship passengers were shocked to learn some of their fellow travellers are believed to be among the injured on White Island.
The Ovation of the Seas was yesterday berthed at Tauranga Harbour and some passengers had been scheduled to visit the island, having caught buses to Whakatāne.
Port company chief executive Mark Cairns said he understood the majority of those injured in the eruption were from the ship. Some travelled by bus, sometimes wealthy passengers also travelled by helicopter, he said.
The cruise ship did not depart as it was originally scheduled to last night.
Several people are unaccounted for, police have said on Monday. 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.
Close to 100 people were on White Island when it erupted on Monday afternoon and many of them remain unaccounted for. "We believe around 100 people were on or around the island at the time, and some of those are at this stage unaccounted for," she told reporters. PM said.
Volcanologists have confirmed it was the biggest eruption in recent history. GNS volcanologist Brad Scott told Magic Talk's Ryan Bridge it was a significant eruption.
"It was quite an explosive eruption and significantly impacted the island and the main crater floor area.
"Unfortunately there's not a lot of shelter on the island - the people on the island were quite exposed. We have significant concern for people that may have been on the island."
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the volcanic island -- also known as Whakaari -- off New Zealand's north coast had erupted while groups of tourists were visiting.
The PM confirmed that foreigners were among those caught in New Zealand volcano eruption.
"It is very much an evolving situation and of course all our thoughts are with those affected," she told reporters in Wellington, adding that an undetermined number of people were unaccounted for.
Police said the eruption occurred about 2:11pm local time (0111 GMT) and there had been around 50 people nearby -- fewer than the 100 officials originally estimated.
"Some of those people have been transported to shore, however a number believed to be on the island are currently unaccounted for," the force said in a statement.
"Of those transported to shore, at least one has been critically injured."
St John Ambulance said there were up to 20 people believed injured but medical teams were still en route.
"Emergency services are currently frantically trying to get these people back from the island to hospital for treatment," Whakatane mayor Judy Turner told AFP.
There were particular fears for a group of visitors seen walking on the crater floor moments before the eruption occurred.
Cameras providing a live feed from the volcano showed more than half a dozen people inside the rim before images went dark when the eruption occurred minutes later.
- 'Five made it back' -
The country's National Emergency Management Agency described the eruption as "moderate", although a thick plume of white ash could be seen for miles around.
Several helicopters and aircraft were seen in the area and survivors were pulled off the island in tour boats.
White Island is about 50 kilometres (30 miles) offshore in the picturesque Bay of Plenty and is popular with adventurous tourists willing to don hard hats and gas masks.
At least one group, four tourists and one pilot, who flew to the island on a Volcanic Air helicopter were accounted for, despite landing shortly before the eruption.
Last photos: here are the White Island Tour operators rescuing people, timestamp 14:24 (~12-14 minutes after eruption) by Michael Schade @sch
Ashfall might affect wider areas - Ministry of Civil Defense
The New Zealand's Ministry of Civil Defence warns it is hazardous in the immediate vicinity of the volcano, and ashfall might affect wider areas.
Th ministry said People living in or near the affected ashfall areas should be aware of the potential for ashfall. Consider staying indoors. Volcanic ash could be a health hazard, especially if you suffer from breathing difficulties
When indoors, close all windows and doors to limit the entry of volcanic ash
If caught in volcanic ashfalls: Wear a dust mask or use a cloth handkerchief over your nose and mouth; protect your eyes by wearing goggles. Wear eyeglasses, NOT contact lenses as fine ash will get under the lens.
Listen to the radio and/or TV for further assessment and updates
Effects of a volcanic eruption can be experienced many kilometres from a volcano. The ministry said.
Australian PM Scott Morrison offers"full support" to Ardern following the eruption
The Prime Minister of Australia, Scott Morrison, said he has offered "full support" to Ardern following the eruption.
Twenty-four Australians were on the island at the time of the eruption, according to Nine News. The figure was reportedly confirmed by Scott Morrison's office.
A terrible tragedy is unfolding in NZ after the volcano eruption on Whakaari/White Island. Australians have been caught up in this terrible event and we are working to determine their wellbeing.— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) December 9, 2019
I have been in touch with @jacindaardern to offer our full support with whatever they need and our authorities are working closely together. I will be staying in direct contact as events continue to unfold. We will provide updates once they are confirmed and are available.— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) December 9, 2019
Later reports by 7NEWS Melbourne citing the Prime Minister's Office also confirmed that more than 20 Australians were on the island when the volcano erupted
7NEWS Melbourne
✔@7NewsMelbourne Replying to @7NewsMelbourne
White Island, New Zealand: One person has died but recovery teams fear the toll is expected to rise following a volcano eruption. The Prime Minister's Office says more than 20 Australians were on the island when the volcano erupted.
Ovation of the Seas cruise ship will not be departing Tauranga as scheduled, passengers shocked at White Island horror
The Ovation of the Seas cruise ship will not be departing Tauranga as scheduled according to a source. 28 of their passengers took the White Island Tour. Sadly this can only mean that some of their passengers have not returned to the ship.Cruise ship passengers were shocked to learn some of their fellow travellers are believed to be among the injured on White Island.
The Ovation of the Seas was yesterday berthed at Tauranga Harbour and some passengers had been scheduled to visit the island, having caught buses to Whakatāne.
Port company chief executive Mark Cairns said he understood the majority of those injured in the eruption were from the ship. Some travelled by bus, sometimes wealthy passengers also travelled by helicopter, he said.
The cruise ship did not depart as it was originally scheduled to last night.
The New Zealand Cruise Association stated its main concern was for the wellbeing of the passengers.
"We would like to extend our heartfelt concern to the passengers and their families," NZCA chief executive officer Kevin O'Sullivan said.
The ship was on a 12-day voyage from Australia and had called at the Bay of Islands and Auckland after leaving Sydney last Wednesday.
It was scheduled to arrive at Wellington on Wednesday before cruising around the South Island and then back to Sydney.
At 168,000 gross tonnes, Ovation is the biggest ship to cruise New Zealand waters.
There are 4579 passengers and 1595 crew onboard the ship.
"We would like to extend our heartfelt concern to the passengers and their families," NZCA chief executive officer Kevin O'Sullivan said.
The ship was on a 12-day voyage from Australia and had called at the Bay of Islands and Auckland after leaving Sydney last Wednesday.
It was scheduled to arrive at Wellington on Wednesday before cruising around the South Island and then back to Sydney.
At 168,000 gross tonnes, Ovation is the biggest ship to cruise New Zealand waters.
There are 4579 passengers and 1595 crew onboard the ship.
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