At least 5 dead after New Zealand's White Island volcano erupts

A volcano has erupted on New Zealand's White Island, leaving five people dead and more than 40 unaccounted for.

New Zealand police said 23 people had been rescued, but warned conditions were hampering rescue efforts.

A tour party from cruise ship Ovation of the Seas were on a tour of White Island when the volcano erupted on Monday.

"A number of people are reportedly injured and are now being transported to shore," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told the media, adding that many of those affected could be tourists.