Small eruption on Mount Tongariro

Taupō Civil Defence team is responding to the small ash eruption on Mount Tongariro about 1.30pm.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) has confirmed the eruption, which is believed to have lasted about two minutes. Locals in the immediate vicinity of Mount Tongariro have also reported the eruption.

A helicopter has been sent up by DOC to survey the mountain to ensure anyone on or around the mountain is safe.

Emergency manager Phil Parker says that with the current wind direction, there is a possibility ash may travel north over Taupō.