Restriction On Whakapapa's Far West T-Bar Lifted

Restriction On Whakapapa's Far West T-Bar Lifted

Scientists from GNS and DOC can now confirm volcanic activity on Mt Ruapehu has settled back to "background", or those levels that were present before Tuesday's eruption.

GNS has completed analysis of the lake water samples taken on Friday, and they can now confirm the eruption was hydrothermal in nature. There is no evidence of juvenile magma intrusion into the lake.

All involved parties are now comfortable the risk of further eruptions and lahar activity has reduced to levels which will allow Ruapehu Alpine Lifts (operator of the Mt Ruapehu ski areas) to reopen all trails and lifts at Whakapapa.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts says the Far West T-Bar at Whakapapa will now operate as soon as the weather clears.

RAL General Manager, Dave Mazey says this is great news as the mountain received more than 30cm of fresh snow over the past two days, and more snow is in the forecast.

"Since the eruption and lahar activity we've been working closely with the authorities monitoring the situation to ensure the ski area is safe for visitors and our staff. The Far-West T-Bar was closed from Wednesday as this lift services trails that had been disturbed by the lahar - now we are clear to open which is great news," says Mr Mazey.

"It's also been snowing quite heavily since yesterday afternoon, so we're looking good for the weekend and the next few weeks. There is still three weeks of our 2007 winter season left and we will be offering superb spring conditions through to closing day on Sunday 28th October."

ENDS

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