Volcanic eruption shines spotlight on New Zealand's adventure tourism

A plume of ash rising into the air as the volcano on White Island erupts off the coast of Whakatane on New Zealand’s North Island last week. Photo: AFP

Adventure tourism is a key part of New Zealand’s international appeal but the recent White Island volcano eruption is a tragic reminder that such activities carry genuine risks that must be better explained to travellers, experts say.

The South Pacific nation offers a wealth of adrenaline-fuelled pursuits, from heli-skiiing on snow-capped mountains to ballooning and blackwater rafting through caves.