White Island after its volcanic eruption in New Zealand

Two British women are among those injured by a volcanic eruption in New Zealand, which has left at least five people dead and 31 in hospital with several still missing.

There are also five people with a UK birthplace marked missing on a Red Cross list of missing persons, which is updated by the public rather than officials.

The UK’s high commissioner to New Zealand, Laura Clarke, said she and her colleagues were supporting the two women’s families and would do the same for “any other Brits who need our help”.

Prime minister Jacinda Ardern has said 47 people were estimated to be on White Island, in the Bay of Plenty, when the volcano blasted a huge plume of ash and steam into the air on Monday.

Police said that despite spotting “some people” on the island in daring aerial reconnaissance efforts since the blast, rescuers saw “no signs of life” at any point.

Official enquiries with tour companies suggest eight people are still unacounted for. Deputy commissioner John Tims told reporters rescue efforts would resume once conditions improve.