A small earthquake struck near volcanic White Island this afternoon, an aftershock from Friday’s 5.4 tremor.

The quake, at 1.53pm, measured 3.7 on the Richter scale. It was close to the centre of Friday’s jolt – 10km west of White Island at a depth of 7km.

GNS Science volcano surveillance co-ordinator Brad Scott said Friday’s quake had been followed by several hundred aftershocks – the larger ones felt on the Bay of Plenty coast.

Some minor volcanic tremor had been recorded at White Island.

“Activity appears normal for White Island, however, we cannot guarantee there will be no response at the island in the future.”

More than 10,000 people visit the island every year.

This article was sourced from Stuff.

Tourists warned off volcano after quakes, The New Zealand Herald, Friday June 13 2008.

Filed under: Ali Perkins, News/Current Affairs