Volcano Owners' Conviction Over 2019 Eruption Overturned by High Court

In a landmark ruling, the High Court of New Zealand has overturned the conviction of Whakaari Management Limited (WML) related to the deadly eruption of Whakaari/White Island in December 2019, which took the lives of 22 individuals. Initially found guilty of failing to ensure visitor safety and fined over NZ$1 million, WML had been tasked with paying NZ$4.8 million in reparations to victims' families. However, following an appeal, the court clarified that as landowners, WML bore no responsibility for the safety of individuals on the island, which remains the country’s most active volcano. Justice Simon Moore acknowledged the immense loss suffered by families but affirmed WML's reliance on tour operators for safety assessments. The High Court case emerges after a series of charges against other parties involved, with WML being the final company to receive a verdict. Worksafe NZ, the regulatory body, is currently contemplating whether to appeal this ruling. The Buttle family, who own Whakaari/White Island, expressed relief at the decision, which they hope will offer clarity for landowners managing recreational access to their properties.

Whakaari/White Island has a long history of volcanic activity, notably showing signs of unrest before the tragic eruption that affected numerous tourists, as well as injuring 25 others.