Police in New Zealand say they've recovered six bodies from White Island during a risky recovery operation.
However, two people remain unaccounted for following Monday's volcanic eruption - with divers deployed to recover one body that is known to be in the water.
The recovery of the six bodies brings the total death toll from the eruption to 14.
The risky recovery operation was launched on Friday morning local time, despite warnings from experts that another eruption could still occur.
However, police said the operation went according to plan.
Volcanologists onboard a ship stationed just off the island gave the team real-time information on the volcano while the mission was underway.
Speaking on Friday afternoon, Police Commissioner Mike Bush said: "The operation was not without risk but thanks to sound planning and the skills of the specialist team involved we have recovered the six bodies.
"The environment the recovery team faced today was highly unpredictable and challenging.
"They showed absolute courage and commitment to ensure we can offer some closure to the families and friends of those who have lost loved ones."
Ahead of the operation, a blessing for the victims was held at sea with representatives of the families attending.
The team involved in the operation wore protective clothing and used breathing apparatuses as gases on the island are so toxic and corrosive that a single breath could be fatal.
