Interest in the Tongariro Alpine Crossing has gone "through the roof" since Mount Tongariro erupted on Monday night.

Former TVNZ newsreader Judy Bailey says good timing probably saved her from near disaster.

Locals have criticised the response to last night's Tongariro eruption as too slow but authorities have defended their procedures, saying they quickly established there was no immediate risk and put plans in place.

Rotoaira local David Bennett was concerned by the lack of communication between the authorities and National Park residents when Mt Tongariro erupted about 4km from his home last night.

The aviation colour code around Mt Tongariro has been downgraded from red to orange, but the volcanic alert level remains at 2.

Mt Tongariro is one of three major volcanos in the central North Island, sitting alongside mounts Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe.

WeatherWatch.co.nz says today's wind map shows building north to north west winds which should keep the ash around less populated parts of NZ.

News of Tongariro's eruption sparked a flurry of activity by Kiwis who have been awake into the early morning.

Edward Rooney discovers he could get used to the pleasures that come with being chairman of the board.

New Zealand's landscape is home to many active and dormant volcanoes.

He may not have reached the peak of Mt Ruapehu but Winston Aldworth had fun trying.

Actor and avid runner, Anna Hutchison, shares her happy place with us.

Diana Clement and a friend took two long weekends away from men and children to discover the tracks of Tongariro National Park.

Cold, icy conditions may have been a factor in a crash between a car and a truck between Waiouru and Rangipo this morning, which killed two men.