Mt Ruapehu Volcano & Eruptions

Located in the Taupo Volcanic Zone, Mt Ruapehu is an active volcano measuring 2797 metres.  

Mt Ruapehu Eruptions

The Taupo Volcanic Zone has seen eruptions occur over the past 2 million years contributing to the geography of the region.  The andesite pebbles found around Mt Ruapehu are evidence of the old lava flows and eruptions from over 300,000 years ago.  The earliest eruption from Mt Ruapehu was reported in 1861 and has a continued history through to present day.  The most recent eruption was in 2007 when clouds of steam and ash erupted and forced a planned ski field evacuation.  In 1996 there was another eruption where cloud eruptions filled the air and ash covered the Central North Island.  Both Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields were closed due to the eruption for a few days.  There have been other recent eruptions of Mt Ruapehu in 1945 and 1995.

Mt Ruapehu has had some evidence of volcanic activity with more gas output, higher lake water temperatures and some small tremors more recently.     

Mt Ruapehu is closely monitored by authorities and safety is of paramount importance.

For more information on Mt Ruapehu and its history check out the GNS site