quote [ Moments before one of New Zealand's most active volcanoes erupted on Monday, tourists were seen walking inside its rim.

The privately-owned White Island, or Whakaari, is a popular destination for day tours and scenic flights. It has been dubbed by some tour operators as a "living, breathing, geological giant" and "the world's most accessible active marine volcano".

Five deaths have been confirmed since Monday's eruption. Twenty-three people were rescued but others are reported missing and police have said there is "no sign of life" on the island. ]