Scientists have recorded an increase in activity in Mt Ruapehu.
Recent fine weather has allowed GeoNet to take measurements from the North Island volcano, which suggest an increase in gas emissions.
Carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide and hydrogen sulphide were all found to be at record-high levels.
The Volcanic Alert Level still remains at 1 and seismic tremor remains at a moderate level.
The current lake temperature is 37degC, near the top of its usual range, which has been sustained over the past two months.
GeoNet says the data suggests the open vent volcano is degassing - which has been observed in the past outside eruptive periods.
The volcano is being closely monitored.
Newshub.
