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Tongariro
The Tongariro complex contains multiple volcanic cones; the largest and most famous, Ngauruhoe, last erupted in 1975.
Tongariro network map.
Tongariro from the north-east (Te Māri Crater in foreground).
Emerald Lakes and Red Crater.
Tongariro is a complex of multiple volcanic cones constructed over a period of 275,000 years. The active vents include Te Māri, Emerald, North Crater and Red Crater. There have been five reported eruptions from the Te Māri craters and Red Crater between 1855 and 1896 but they have been dormant since then.
Most Recent Eruption
- Where: Te Māri
- When: 1869, 1892 and 1896
- Effects: In 1869 a large eruption (accompanied by an earthquake) formed the upper Te Māri Crater during an explosive eruption. Māori descriptions talk of "bright red flame through the smoke that would burst and fall like snow". In November 1892 Te Māri again belched forth an immense quantity of steam, mud and boulders; the ejected material rose 2,000 - 3,000 feet (600 - 900 m) before rushing down the mountain side. The last eruption began in November 1896 and continued until the end of the year.
What does GeoNet do?
- Seismic monitoring: 4 seismographs and a microphone to detect volcanic explosions.
- Chemical analysis: Water and gas chemistry and airborne gas measurements.
- Ground deformation: 2 continuous GPS (CGPS) stations.
