Tongariro Volcanic Risk Track Status

 

Electronic signs on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The Department of Conservation restricted hikers from completing the whole of the crossing for the summer of 2012-2013 after an eruption on the 21st of November 2012. On the 22nd of October 2013 they have erected electronic signs at both ends of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. These signs are designed to warn hikers of an increase in volcanic activity.

These signs (like international traffic lights) have three lights: red, yellow and green.

  • Red means track closed – volcanic risk too high for track to be open
  • Yellow means elevated risk – volcanic risk higher than normal but track still open
  • Green means track open – volcanic risk normal but not zero

Volcanic warning light the begining