Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Whakatāne mayor Judy Turner and Police Superintendent Bruce Baird have briefed media on the situation at Whakaari/White Island.
Police say eight people are still missing after Monday afternoon's volcanic eruption.
The latest information is 47 people were on the island, 31 are now in hospital, three have been discharged.
Five have been confirmed dead.
The countries of origin of those caught up in the explosion are Australia, US, UK, China and Malaysia as well as NZ tourists and tour operators.
