The final defendant in the trial of New Zealand tourism operators, accused of safety violations following the death of 22 people in a 2019 volcanic eruption on White Island (Whakaari), has been found guilty on one count.
Safety Violations Verdict
The management company of the volcanic island that erupted in 2019, leading to the deaths of 22 individuals, has been convicted of violating health and safety regulations.
Twenty-five others sustained severe injuries when White Island, also known as Whakaari, erupted suddenly, emitting ash and vapor.
On Tuesday, a district court in Auckland ruled that Whakaari Management Ltd. had neglected its duty to mitigate the danger to visitors.
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Judge Evangelos Thomas held the business guilty of failing to undertake a risk assessment despite knowing about a 2016 eruption.
“It should have taken reasonably practicable action to fulfill its obligation,” the judge said, noting that its failure constituted a “major failure.”
The second charge of ensuring the safety of those on the island was dismissed.
Survivor Testimonies
In a three-month, judge-only trial brought by regulators against thirteen organizations, six had previously pleaded guilty, and proceedings against the remaining six were dropped.
The trial concluded with Whakaari Management Ltd., the holding company for the island’s owners, Andrew, James, and Peter Buttle, as the last remaining defendant.
Testimony was provided by a newlywed couple from Richmond, Virginia, who had survived the eruption.
Lauren Urey, 35, recalled fleeing for her life with her husband Matt upon seeing a massive plume from the volcano. She hid behind rocks and vividly remembered the intense heat.
“I distinctly recall howling in anguish. And I felt my body heat up,” Lauren Urey testified.
“I expressed my deepest love for you,” she told her husband. “I will pass away today.”
Several organizations, including a scenic flight operator and companies offering helicopter excursions and boat tours, had previously pleaded guilty.
In February, these parties will face convictions and a maximum fine of NZ$1.5 million (£720,000).
New Zealand’s east coast’s White Island volcano is 31 miles offshore from Whakatane.
