Volcanic risk in Tongariro National Park
Introduction
Tongariro National Park is an active volcanic area. Eruptions can occur with little or no warning. The closer you are to the Park’s active volcanic vents, the higher the risk you are exposed to.
What to do before you go
- Check the current status of the volcanoes in the park and follow the risk reduction advice at appropriate DOC Risk Management Stage (see above).
- Know where the volcanic hazards zones are.
- Check the webpages of DOC tracks you plan to use for any closures and additional safety advice.
- Know the eruption advice for Whakapapa Ski Area or Whakapapa Village if visiting these areas.
- Consider whether you're comfortable with the volcanic risk associated with your trip. If you are not comfortable, visit somewhere outside the Park's volcanic hazard zones.
How to stay safe in an eruption
- Move immediately away from the eruption site, staying out of valleys
- If you’re in a valley, move sideways to higher ground (a ridge top) – a fast moving volcanic mud flow like a flash flood (a ‘lahar’) is possible.
- If you see flying rocks, or a steam and ash cloud coming towards you, take shelter behind a bank or ridge and cover your head with your pack.
- If you are in Whakapapa Ski Area or Village, follow the below instructions
Eruption advice for Whakapapa Ski Area and Whakapapa Village
Lahars are the main volcanic hazard at Ruapehu. There are lahar warning systems that warn visitors when an eruption has occurred, and a lahar is possible. Sirens and voice messages will sound in specific areas to warn visitors.
If ash fall has been forecast for your region
- Before ash fall starts, go home if possible, to avoid driving or walking during ash fall.
- If you have a visual impairment, wear eyeglasses. Do not wear contact lenses because trapped ash can scratch your eyes.
- Bring pets inside and move livestock into closed shelters. Make sure that animals have supplementary feed and access to clean drinking water.
- Close all windows and doors and shut down heat pumps to limit the entry of volcanic ash. Set up a single entry point for your house. Place damp towels at the threshold to prevent ash being tracked indoors.
- Cover sensitive electronics. Do not remove covers until the indoor environment is completely ash free.
- Cover vehicles, machinery and spa pools to avoid ash causing damage. Ash can corrode metal surfaces and cause abrasion damage to windscreens and paintwork.
- Disconnect drainpipes/downspouts from gutters to stop drains clogging. If you use a rainwater collection system for your water supply, disconnect the tank.
- Check on your neighbours and anyone who might need your help.
If your are unsure where to start, we can supply you with free and confidential support and connect you with the services you need.
Call now 0800 787 254 (RURAL HELP)