John Tims says the police will open a criminal investigation into the circumstances of the deaths on White island.
New Zealand Police have issued a statement confirming a sixth person has died following the eruption on White Island.
"The person was earlier being treated at Middlemore Hospital," the statement said.
"Police remain focused on supporting families at this terrible time."
NZ Police have announced an investigation after yesterday’s volcanic eruption which may have killed as many as 13 people.
As horrific details emerged about the eruption – in which most victims suffered severe burns – New Zealand Police Deputy Commissioner John Tims announced the investigation as questions emerged over why tour groups were allowed into the volcano zone despite scientists’ warnings of increased activity.
White Island, off the country’s North Island in the Bay of Plenty, erupted with a large plume of ash and jets of scalding steam yesterday while dozens of people explored New Zealand’s most active volcano.
Police, however, revised its statement earlier saying it was opening a criminal investigation.
By the police account this morning, six people were confirmed dead, with at least eight more missing and feared dead.
Conditions on the island remained too dangerous for rescue workers to attend on Tuesday, but officials said flyovers had revealed no signs of life.
The doctors at the hospital have also said the survival chance of those brought for emergency treatment is very slime as 30 more people as still in critical conditions.
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