Google has deleted reviews of White Island/Whakaari posted by users following its eruption, many of which made light of Monday's disaster.
At 2:11pm the island volcano erupted, sending plumes of ash and steam thousands of metres into the air. Five people have been confirmed dead, with 31 injured. Eight are missing and presumed dead.
News of the eruption gripped the world, with many affected by the disaster coming from countries such as the United States, Australia and China. Twenty-eight of the tourists who ventured to White Island on Monday were touring on the Ovation of the Seas cruise ship.
Tours of the island have been happening for years, and following the eruption, the Google reviews function was inundated with people leaving comments.
Many of the reviewers shared positive memories on the island and sent their sympathies to the people affected by the disaster.
"Sending my Prayers to all the people from White Island much love peace & respect," said one person alongside a five-star review.
"Our thoughts are with everyone as we were there only nine days ago may all the wonderful staff be safe and our thoughts are with everyone."
But some of the reviews have made light of the eruption.
"A great place to visit if you're looking for an Indiana Jones, action-packed vacation," said one person.
"Best Minecraft starting island, free cobblestone generator," said another. The user is referencing the video game Minecraft, in which users can use lava and water items to create cobblestone blocks to build objects with.
"Great place for a barbecue."
"Pros: Beautiful island, Cool walk, Nice water. Cons: Nearly Died."
After Newshub raised the reviews with Google, posts since the eruption disappeared from the site. Google is now monitoring the reviews.
"Google removes reviews that violate our policy. If a user finds a review that they believe is in violation, they can flag it for removal and we use automated and manual systems to detect for spam and fraud," a spokesperson told Newshub.
Anyone with a Google account can write a review. These can't be posted anonymously. The internet search company says it takes down fake reviews or any that don't comply with its guidelines.
"Contributions must be based on real experiences and information. Deliberately fake content, copied or stolen photos, off-topic reviews, defamatory language, personal attacks, and unnecessary or incorrect content are all in violation of our policy. If you see this behaviour, please report it," Google says on its website.