A volcano has erupted near Mt Ruapehu spewing ash on onto the surrounding area and access roads. The ski slopes though are still open.

Mt Tongariro is just 20km from the ski resorts of Turoa and Whakapapa on the north island.

It is where parts of the film, Lord of the Rings, were filmed and the site of Mount Doom.

It is the first time Mount Tongariro the volcano has erupted in more than 100 years though other volcanoes in the area have erupted in recent time.

It erupted last week and produced an ash cloud 4 miles high and has covered the surrounding areas in thick grey ash. Rocks and debis damaged buildings but no-one was hurt.

Some people have been evacuated from their homes.

Ski resorts have been keen to point out that they are open for business.

"Well what a night! Mt Tongariro did erupt last night, however this poses no risk to Whakapapa and Turoa Ski Areas. The volcanic vents on Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu are independent of each other and there is no reason or indication of volcanic activity on Ruapehu," said a statement formt he Mt Ruapehu ski areas. "You can still come skiing here we would love to see you! There is snow in the forecast .....so start organising your trip now!"

The Te Mari crater where the eruption occurred is 20kms away from the ski area.

The ash has blown out to the east over the Desert Road.

Scientists and the ski resorts are monitoring the situation but there has so far been one single eruption. This is similar to the eruptions on Ruapehu in 2007, 1969 and 1975.

For a news report form ITN see the video below.