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Volcanic Activity

A volcanic eruption of Mt Taranaki has been assessed as a moderate – very high hazard for the Taranaki region and is the top hazard for the Taranaki region. The probability of an eruption is a 30 – 50% chance in the 50 years.

Mount Taranaki or Taranaki Mounga is one of the most symmetrical volcanic cones in the world and, at 2,518 meters high, is the second-highest peak in the North Island. The Mounga is located within Te Papakura o Taranaki (Egmont National Park).  

Mount Taranaki is a composite cone or strato-volcano, made up of alternating layers of volcanic ash and lava flow. Eruptions from strato-volcanoes usually occur from a central vent and commonly create lava domes and flows, lahars, floods, and sometimes major collapses. The current summit crater of Mount Taranaki contains a lava dome surrounded by ice and snow.

How to get ready for a volcanic eruption

  • Stay informed. Listen to the radio and follow official advice from Emergency Management and emergency services
  • Stay at home unless you are told to evacuate. Do not go into the national park area around Mount Taranaki. Avoid rivers and valleys as there may be lahars.
  • Prepare your home for ashfall – see the next section below.
  • Check on your neighbours and anyone who might need your help.

 

1Taranaki Infographicseries 2022 V1.0 Overview (1)

Volcanic Infographic Posters

These infographics show what might happen in an eruption on Taranaki Mounga. They are designed to give a simple and accessible overview of common volcanic processes and what to do in an eruption.