New Zealand's White Island volcano is showing increased seismic activity, putting recovery efforts on hold.

Authorities had hoped they would be able to retrieve the bodies of those left behind on the island, all of whom are presumed dead.

BBC News reports the exact death toll is unclear.

Police say at least six people died, two of them since leaving the island, and nine are officially missing.

Another 22 people are in intensive care with severe burns.

One has been moved to Australia.

BBC