One person has died and more have been injured after a New Zealand volcano erupted.
There were around 50 people on or near Whakaari/White Island when the very active volcano blew its top. A massive emergency rescue operation is now underway to ferry everyone back to shore.
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According to the New Zealand Herald, there are people returning to the shore covered in ash.
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says there are a number of people who remain unaccounted for at this stage.
She added: "At this stage we believe around 100 people were around or on the island at this stage - not all of them are accounted for. It is very much an evolving situation and of course all our thoughts are with those affected."
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A picture from GNS was taken just before the eruption and shows a lot of activity.
People who live near the island, which is about 48 kilometres from the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, in the Bay of Plenty, say it was one of the worst eruptions they've witnessed.
St John Ambulance has released a statement saying: "St John is working with the Royal New Zealand Coast Guard, Ambulance Air Operators and District Health Boards, in a coordinated response to the White Island volcanic eruption.
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"Ambulance officers from Whakatane are travelling to White Island via Coast Guard and we have dispatched seven helicopters to the island with paramedics on board. Also on board one helicopter is St John Medical Director, Dr Tony Smith, who will establish a triage unit on the island.
"The situation is still developing, and we will keep you informed as more information comes to hand."
Featured Image Credit: Tourism of New ZealandTopics: New Zealand, World News, News