1997 Mount Ruapehu Definitive

Mount Ruapehu is the highest mountain (2,797 metres) in the North Island of New Zealand. It is located in the volcanic central area which includes Tongariro, Taupō, Tarawera and Edgecumbe. This is one of the most active volcanic regions of its kind in the world, with the massive Taupō eruption occurring in AD 186, Tarawera erupting in 1886 and Ruapehu in 1945. Ruapehu made headlines around the world in 1995 when it began spitting rock and steam.

Volcanic activity reached a peak at the end of September 1995 with plumes of ash and steam reaching heights of 19 km, and mudflows running down the mountan. Large blocks of rock were thrown hundreds of metres during what was the largest eruption in New Zealand in the last 400 years. Nearby towns were evacuated and roads, railways and air space in the area were closed. Volcanic activity continued throughout October and November 1995.

Ruapehu's volcanic activity intensified again in early 1996, with a flood of mud and boulders moving down the Whangaehu River in late April. During June 1996 moderate-sized ash eruptions occurred, with lava bombs ejected 100-500 metres above the volcano's vent on 17 June. Noise from the eruptions and shockwaves were reported as far away as Hawke's Bay.

Ruapehu has been relatively quiet since August 1996, with the Alert Level down to Level 2.

This $10 definitive stamp features a striking aerial photograph, by New Zealand photographer Craig Potton, of Ruapehu in eruption in June 1996. The stamp is bordered with an image of volcanic rocks.