KEY POINTS:
White Island tour operator Isaac Tait says it is business as usual at the volcano.
Despite geologists saying the White Island crater lake has undergone a jump in temperature to a record 74C and the water level has plunged, both of which could signal an eruption, Mr Tait said both boats from White Island Tours had been taking visitors to the island every day for the past week and the volcano was no more active than normal.
GNS Science volcanic surveillance co-ordinator Brad Scott said the drop in water level might cause instability in the geothermal system that could result in minor eruptive activity.
"The water temperature in its crater lake has jumped from 45C last August to over 60C in January and was now 74C. The lake water was also very acidic like scalding hot battery acid," Mr Scott said.
"The increase in gas through the lake might cause some discomfort to visitors to the island when they are close to the lake."
But according to Mr Tait, the only difference he has seen is that during the last two days it has been close to rain on the island and the steam that normally disperses into the air cannot get past the heavier and colder air now on top.
"What geologist Brad Scott is saying is true - it's scientific, but as far as we are concerned there have been no significant changes for some time."
He said tour operators kept a close eye on things and were also in constant contact with GNS scientists. "I know they would alert us if there was considered to be any increased danger on the island and we have not heard anything."
About 20,000 tourists visit White Island each year, most of them ferried in boats from Whakatane, 48km away. Four helicopter operators - three from Rotorua and one from Whakatane - also take people to the island.
- DAILY POST (ROTORUA)/NZPA
