Volcanic Activity
Tongariro last erupted in 2012, small ash eruptions from the Te Maari Crater on August 6th and November 21st. These were the first eruptions of Te Maari in 116 years. No one was injured in these events, before these recent eruptions the Red Crater was considered Tongariro’s most active vent, last giving out ash in 1926 and creating the craters known as the Emerald Lakes. The minerals from this eruption gave the lakes their stunning colour. All hikers on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing have managed to see the highlights, Red Crater, Blue lake, the emerald lakes and summit both Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe while authorities look at opening the last leg past the Te Maari Crater.
http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/authorities-look-open-tongariro-crossing-video-5391027