A moonlit weekend gives Fraser Crichton an opportunity to find out more about Project Tongariro's high-tech Tongariro Alpine Crossing experience.

Officials are looking at reopening tracks which have been closed since the mountain's eruption.

Interest in the Tongariro Alpine Crossing has gone "through the roof" since Mount Tongariro erupted on Monday night.

Locals have criticised the response to last night's Tongariro eruption as too slow but authorities have defended their procedures, saying they quickly established there was no immediate risk and put plans in place.

Rotoaira local David Bennett was concerned by the lack of communication between the authorities and National Park residents when Mt Tongariro erupted about 4km from his home last night.

The aviation colour code around Mt Tongariro has been downgraded from red to orange, but the volcanic alert level remains at 2.

Eruption activity has subsided but another eruption could occur at any time with little or no warning, according to Civil Defence. Read the latest.

Mt Tongariro is one of three major volcanos in the central North Island, sitting alongside mounts Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe.

Edward Rooney discovers he could get used to the pleasures that come with being chairman of the board.

New Zealand's landscape is home to many active and dormant volcanoes.

Joanna Mathers finds plenty to keep her happy away from the slopes.