New Zealand police suspend volcano bodies search

Police in New Zealand have called off a search for two people missing after the deadly volcanic eruption earlier this month.

Erupting volcano at White Island in New Zealand. Source: Lillani Hopkins (AAP Image)

New Zealand police are ending the search for the bodies of two people still missing following the deadly eruption of a volcano earlier this month.

"The search for the two missing victims of the Whakaari/White Island eruption has been suspended," Bay of Plenty District Commander, Superintendent Andy McGregor said in a statement on Tuesday.

"The families of the two missing people have been informed of this decision. Police remain ready to respond if new information comes to light," he added.

Those still missing, presumed dead, are Winona Langford, a 17-year-old Australian tourist, and Hayden Marshall-Inman, a 40-year-old New Zealand tour guide. Their bodies are thought to have been swept into the ocean around the uninhabited volcanic island.

The death toll from the eruption stands at 19, including Ms Langford and Mr Marshall-Inman.

The majority of the victims the powerful eruption of White Island, also known by its Maori name of Whakaari, were Australian citizens or permanent residents.

Tourists on a boat look at the eruption of the volcano on White Island. Source: Michael Schade

There has been criticism that tourists were allowed on the island, a popular destination for day-trippers, given the risks of an active volcano. That has led to speculation the incident could lead to major changes for New Zealand's thrillseeker tourism industry.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said official inquiries by coroners and work safety regulators into the eruption could take up to a year, and will carry potential criminal penalties of up to five years' jail.