Whakaari / White Island
Bay of Plenty
Whakaari / White Island, also known as Te Puia Whakaari, is an active andesite stratovolcano located 48 km off the east coast of New Zealand's North Island in the Bay of Plenty. Covering approximately 325 hectares, it is the visible peak of a much larger submarine volcano. The island features rugged cliffs, an active crater with an acidic lake, and several volcanic cones including Mount Gisborne and Mount Percival. It is New Zealand's most active cone volcano, with continuous volcanic gas emissions recorded since 1769 and eruptions occurring intermittently, including notable events in 2012, 2016, and 2019. The island's geology is characterized by alternating layers of lava flows, tuffs, and breccias altered by hydrothermal fluids. Historically, sulphur mining took place until the 1930s. The island's unique combination of active volcanic features, dramatic landscape, and ecological sites such as gannet colonies make it a significant natural landmark in New Zealand.
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Tip: Visitors should check current volcanic activity warnings and advisories before planning a trip, as the island is active and potentially hazardous. The best time to visit is during periods of low volcanic activity, typically in calm weather. Pre-booking tours through authorized operators is strongly recommended due to safety regulations and limited access. Discounts may be available for groups or educational tours. Visitors should prepare for rugged terrain and variable weather conditions, and follow all safety instructions provided by guides.
Interesting facts
- •Whakaari / White Island is the most active cone volcano in New Zealand and has been continuously releasing volcanic gases since at least 1769.
- •The island's crater contains an acidic lake formed within the active volcanic cone.
- •A tragic eruption in December 2019 caused 22 fatalities and injured 25 survivors, marking one of New Zealand's deadliest volcanic disasters.
- •The island's visible peak is only a small part of a larger submarine volcano rising 1,600 meters above the seafloor.
- •Whakaari features unique geological formations including multiple volcanic cones and hydrothermal explosion craters that have shaped its bays.
History
Whakaari / White Island has been volcanically active for approximately 150,000 years, continuously shaped by eruptions and volcanic gas emissions.
It was first recorded by Captain James Cook in 1769.
Sulphur mining was conducted on the island until the 1930s, with a tragic accident in 1914 when a crater wall collapse caused fatalities among miners.
The island has experienced multiple eruptions in recent decades, including a major eruption in December 2019 that resulted in significant casualties and injuries.
These events highlight the island's volatile nature and its importance in volcanic research and monitoring.
Place Guide
Central Cone Crater
The amphitheatre-shaped active crater of the Central Cone contains an acidic lake and is the main site of volcanic activity on the island. It features three coalescing sub-craters aligned northwest to southeast and is open to the southeast due to past landslides and eruptions.
Mount Gisborne
The highest point on Whakaari / White Island, standing at 321 meters. It forms the western rim of the crater and offers rugged terrain and panoramic views of the island's volcanic landscape.
Mount Percival
Located on the northern rim of the crater, Mount Percival rises to 283 meters and contributes to the island's distinctive rugged profile.
Te Awapuia Bay (Crater Bay)
A bay southeast of the crater where ash and boulder slopes descend to the sea, featuring derelict mining buildings and the island's wharf. It is a key landing and exploration area on the island.
Gannet Colonies
The island hosts gannet colonies at Otaketake Point and Te Hokowhitu cliff, important for local wildlife and ecological study.
