The volcanic alert level has been raised to level 3 and aviation code orange following an eruption at 5:35pm yesterday.
Earth Science New Zealand Duty Volcanologist Steven Sherburn said a "single slug of dark grey volcanic ash that rose to about 1300 metre elevation over two minutes," was observed from cameras at Te Kaha and Whakatāne.
This comes a week after Whakaari was downgraded to a volcanic alert level two following a period of minor volcanic unrest.
The plume was also observed by Metservice satellites.
The ash plume drifted to the west and no further activity has been observed.
Following the eruption, the volcanic alert level to three and aviation colour code to orange.
"While eruptive activity has ceased for now, volcanic activity could re-escalate with little or no warning."
"Further sudden, more explosive events could therefore affect the crater floor and immediate vicinity of the island, although ashfall affecting the mainland remains unlikely," Sherburn said.
Experts will continue to monitor the island for any changes in activity.
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