Volcano in New Zealand erupts after more than a century

After lying dormant for more than 100 years, Mount Tongariro erupted in New Zealand just before midnight causing cancellations of flights and closure of major roads.

Dramatic scenes of bright flashes, steam and ash billowing in the air were reported by witnesses after the 6,490ft volcano erupted taking seismologists by surprise.

The volcano, which is one of a chain of three at the centre of the North Island, caused two main roads to be closed for a while due to falling ash.

Police search and rescue teams in helicopters flew around the national park in the surrounding area to check for hikers residing in accommodation huts.

Airports at Palmerston North, Napier, Taupo and Rotorua were closed due to a large ash cloud which covered the areas throughout the day on Tuesday.

The ash was being swept clear by road maintenance crews and locals said they found it difficult to breathe during the event.

Despite a lack of official orders, some residents fled their homes overnight for fear of being trapped as the whole landscape turned ‘murky and grey’.

Authorities warned that the eruption could be an indicator for more serious events to come and a volcanologist said there may be a quiet period before further eruptions at a later time.

The last time Mount Tongariro erupted was in 1897 after periodic bursts began in 1855.