In a significant ruling, a New Zealand court has mandated tour operators and the management of White Island, the site of a catastrophic volcanic eruption, to compensate survivors with over NZ$10 million ($6.1 million). Additionally, fines totaling approximately NZ$2.6 million were imposed for their failure to conduct thorough risk assessments before the tragedy that claimed 22 lives.
The companies held accountable include White Island Tours, Volcanic Air Safaris, Kahu New Zealand, Aerius, and Whakaari Management Ltd, the corporate entity owning the island. The eruption on 9 December 2019 took place while 47 individuals, predominantly international tourists from Australia, the US, and Malaysia, were present on the island, resulting in severe injuries and fatalities.
Also learn about Icelandic Volcano Eruption Shows Signs of Weakening, New Vents Possible.
