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Hunter Island Volcano | Dr John Seach
Last updated: January 2026
Tafea Province, Vanuatu
22.40 S, 172.09 E
summit elevation 297 m
Stratovolcano
Hunter Island is a remote, uninhabited volcanic island at the southeastern extremity of the Vanuatu arc, positioned between the Loyalty Ridge collision zone and the North Fiji Basin spreading ridge. It has an asymmetrical shape with a southern composite cone (extinct crater) and a northwestern explosion crater enclosed by 100 m high cliffs. The summit features a Pelean-type lava dome. Fumarolic activity persists at the northern tip. The island is part of Vanuatu, with customary ownership claimed by Aneityum Island communities.
Current Activity (January 2026)
Hunter Island remains dormant with no confirmed eruptive activity since the 19th century. Low-level fumarolic emissions continue at the northern tip. Occasional regional earthquakes occur due to tectonic setting, but none indicate volcanic unrest. The island is unmonitored by VMGD due to remoteness and low hazard potential. No thermal anomalies or gas changes reported.
Hunter Island volcano photos
No dedicated photos available from Dr John Seach expeditions; the island's extreme isolation limits access and documentation.
Geological Notes
The island shows contrasting morphology: a southern eroded composite cone and a northwestern explosion crater with steep cliffs. The summit dome and northern fumaroles indicate past vigorous activity.
19th Century Eruptions
Confirmed activity in 1835, 1841, 1892?, 1895, and 1903, primarily from the northern area with possible explosive events.
Earlier Reports
Uncertain sighting in 1797.
Further reading
Maillet, P., Monzier, M. and Lefevre, C., 1986. Petrology of Matthew and Hunter volcanoes, south New Hebrides island arc (southwest Pacific). Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research, 30(1-2), pp.1-27.
Mosses, M., 2019. Revisiting the Matthew and Hunter Islands Dispute in Light of the Recent Chagos Advisory Opinion and Some Other Relevant Cases: An Evaluation of Vanuatu''s Claims relating to the Right to Self-Determination, Territorial Integrity, Unlawful Occupation and State Responsibility Under International Law. Netherlands International Law Review, 66(3), pp.475-506.
Hunter Island Volcano Eruptions
1903, 1895, 1892?, 1841, 1835, 1797?.