A popular hiking trail in New Zealand’s North Island has been closed due to an erupting volcano. Mount Tongariro in Tongariro National Park erupted for just five minutes – but it was enough for park authorities to warn walkers to stay away from the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.The trail will open again shortly, once the threat of further volcanic activity has been assessed. Several flights were cancelled due to the eruption.
The national park has three volcanoes, and was used as a backdrop in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings films. A neighbouring volcano featured as the fictional Mount Doom.
Other routes in the park remain open. For up-to-date information, visit the website www.tongarirocrossing.org.nz
