By - Rotorua Daily PostA deep geothermal vent has sprung into life near Rotorua after laying dormant for more than 30 years. The Mud Rift is a 36m long, 5-6m wide, and 15m deep geothermal vent in Raupo Pond Crater, formed in the June 1886 Tarawera eruption. The Mud Rift formed in 1906 and last erupted in 1981. The Mud Rift in the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, about 25km south of Rotorua, erupted last month, releasing steam and water into the surrounding area. GNS Science Volcanologist Brad Scott said the eruption seemed to be mainly steam and fine sands.

Source: New Zealand Herald June 16, 2016 22:57 UTC