A land sculpted by volcanoes

There are many active volcanoes in New Zealand, and eruptions occur often. In New Zealand, there are three types of volcanoes. In New Zealand, there are six volcanic areas: five on the North Island and one offshore in the Kermadec Islands. Volcanoes in New Zealand are divided into zones with more intense and long-lasting activity, and their location (as well as the composition of the lavas produced) can be linked to the large-scale movement of the tectonic plates in the region.

The Taupo Volcanic Zone has seen the most volcanism in New Zealand over the last 1.6 million years (TVZ). From Whakaari/White Island to Ruapehu, the zone is defined. On a global scale, the Taupo Volcanic Zone is extraordinarily active, with three often active cone volcanoes (Ruapehu, Tongariro/Ngauruhoe, and Whakaari/White Island) and two of the world's most productive calderas (Okataina and Taupo). It is one of the things about New Zealand you should know.