A local man presumed dead in the White Island eruption has been remembered as 'full of life'.
Hayden Marshall-Inman is one of numerous people believed to have died in Monday's eruption.
Five people have been confirmed dead and eight people remain missing and are believed to be dead.
Former Whakatane Mayor Tony Bonne says he knew Marshall-Inman personally and his death has come as a shock to the community.
"I felt really numb. I know the person, I think my company actually helped him, we taught him how to dive a couple of years ago, he's a keen fisherman, sportsperson and he's been a guide for White Island Tours for many years," Bonne said.
"[He was] full of life, loved fishing, loved diving."
Inman's brother, Mark Inman, announced the news on Facebook on Monday evening.
"Friends and family, very sad news this evening. My bro Hayden Marshall-Inman has past [sic] away doing the one thing he loved," wrote Inman. "Thanks for all your messages. I’ll be in touch when we know more."
The post was met with condolences from family and friends.
One person called him "an absolute spectacular human".
Another said he was an "awesome man" who will be "dearly missed".