Wow, it’s always exciting when one of our mountains goes off. At 11.50pm on 6 August Mt Tongariro erupted flinging ash and hot rocks into the air. Although there had been increased earthquake activity in recent weeks and slightly elevated gas signatures there was no real indication that the mountain was anything other than restless. It is thought the incandescent explosions emanated from the Te Mari Craters which are on the northern end of the mountain. Mt Tongariro last erupted in 1897.
Volcanic ash has trended east towards Napier and some flights have been suspended. Roads in the area have been reopened after being closed last night due to ash.
Police have set out this morning to check that no one is stuck in huts on the mountain.
My novel, Fire in the Mountain, is due out in three weeks! Great timing!
lilyennis 