GeoNet confirms there's been no escalation in the level of activity on White Island, while the emission of ash is currently very minor.

The level of activity on Tuesday and overnight is minor, with small amounts of volcanic ash being passively emitted from vents within the active crater, says Duty volcanologist Steve Sherburn.

White Island's crater floor this morning at 6.30am. Photo: GeoNet

'We have reviewed all available data sets; seismic activity remains low, the gas flux remains low and there are no measureable acoustic signals,” explains Steve.

'Some of our cameras are still affected by ash and steam, hence limiting our observations.”

The Volcanic Alert Level remains at Level 3, while implications for visitor safety remain unclear.

Steve says poor light conditions and local high cloud make it difficult to assess the amount of ash present, but it appears the bulk of the emission took place on Tuesday and only minor amounts are now present.

'Should ash emission increase today there is a low possibility of traces of ash reaching the East Cape area, based on weather and ashfall models. The current activity is minor. We will review the situation if changes occur,” says Steve.

While Tuesday's eruption on White Island may have been ‘minor', the ash cloud was visible from space and for those on land looking out to the island, like Whakatāne and Ōpotiki.

To view images of White Island's crater floor visit the GeoNet website.

White Island's crater rim this morning at 6.30am. Photo: GeoNet