GNS volcanologists have analysed the activity at White Island following the 20 August eruption and have lowered the Volcanic Alert Level.

"The level of volcanic activity at White Island has decreased substantially since yesterday’s eruption," GNS reports. "Steam and gas continue to be emitted from the active crater, in a similar fashion to that prior to the eruption."

Weather permitting, GNS plans to fly around White Island on Friday to take airborne measurements of volcanic gas emissions.

GNS stresses that although there is no clear indication yesterday's eruption will lead to a larger one, eruptions can occur at any time and without prior warning.

The Volcanic Alert Level is now at 1, and The Aviation Colour Code is at Yellow.