Hawaii volcano attracts thousands

Lava from a volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island has crept down kilometres of mountainside and is flowing into the Pacific Ocean where it is creating new land and a stunning show for visitors.

Thousands of people from around the world have flocked to Volcanoes National Park by land, sea and air to view the lava, which crackles and hisses, and reeks of sulphur and scorched earth, as it oozes across the rugged landscape and eventually off steep seaside cliffs.

When the hot rocks hit the water, they expel plumes of steam and gas and sometimes explode, sending chunks of searing debris flying through the air.