White Island: Whakaari

White Island or Whakaari is an active volcano, two km in diameter, situated just under 50 km from the east coast of the North Island, in the Bay of Plenty.

It is New Zealand's only active marine volcano and easily accessible, for this reason attracting scientists as well as many tourists.

The Island has a rich history, including being mined for Sulphur into the early 20th century. The unpredictable environment and poor mineral content of the rock eventually led to the Islands abandonment by miners. Today it is a tourist attraction, both the volcanic Island and its surrounding waters.

Whakaari is privately owned, however, it is easily accessed by authorised tour operators.

Photograph by James Shook