New Zealand recovers bodies from volcanic island

New Zealand launched a risky operation on Friday (December 13).

Recovery teams brought back six bodies from a volcanic island that erupted earlier this week.

On the mainland, grieving family members waited, anxious for news

Authorities have faced growing pressure to recover the bodies as soon as possible.

But police had refused to go due to safety risks.

The conditions on Friday (December 13) were potentially deadly

Experts warned the White Island volcano had a good chance of erupting again.

The operation was carried out by a bomb disposal squad.

But, slowed down by heavy protective gear, they had to leave two bodies behind.

Police Commissioner Mike Bush said they haven't given up yet.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) POLICE COMMISSIONER MIKE BUSH SAYING:

"We do believe that at least one of them is in the water and the other one we are unsure so that only leaves two possibilities. One is still on the island and we haven't located them or they too are in the water."

Police have deployed dive teams in the waters around the island, and plan another aerial search of the area later on Friday.

The White Island volcano erupted on Monday (December 9), spewing ash, steam and gases over the island.

Forty-seven visitors were on the island at the time.

The official death toll stands at eight, but that's due to rise after the bodies are formally identified.