Boaties are being warned to stay at least two nautical miles away from Whakaari/White Island.

The active volcano is experiencing a period of elevated unrest.

The Bay of Plenty Harbourmaster advises all vessels to stay at least 2 nautical miles from the island.  

"People on the water are asked to follow safe boating practices and use common sense to ensure that they keep both themselves and those onboard safe from any threat of volcanic activity by keeping their distance," says a statement from the Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

Volcanic Alert Level Status

The Volcanic Alert Level set by GNS Science remains at Level 3 (minor eruption) and the Aviation Colour Code remains at Orange. https://www.geonet.org.nz/vabs/1LXypC2x6ONaGltcfRMH6X

Bay of Plenty Council works alongside Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Group who is in close contact with GNS Science and NEMA (the national emergency management agency) to stay aware of activity on Whakaari.