Another person who was injured in the volcanic eruption in New Zealand has died in an Auckland hospital, bringing the official death toll to 17 while two remain missing.
"Police can confirm a further person has died in Middlemore Hospital last night ... police were advised of the death shortly before 11pm," New Zealand Police Deputy Commissioner John Tims in a statement on Monday.
Police did not provide any details on the identity or nationality of the person. The majority of the previously named victims after the powerful eruption of White Island on December 9, 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
Those still missing, presumed dead, are Winona Langford, a 17-year-old Australian from Sydney whose parents also died in the tragedy, and Hayden Marshall-Inman, a 40-year-old New Zealand tour guide. Their bodies are believed to have been washed out to sea.
Police have scaled back a search for the bodies but have said they have not given up hope of finding them.
There has been criticism that people were allowed on the island, a popular destination for day-trippers, given the risks of an active volcano. That has led to speculation the tragedy 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 one year, and will carry potential criminal penalties of up to five years in jail.
