A New Zealand court ordered NZ$10 million (£4.8m; $6m) in compensation to be paid to the victims of the White Island (Whakaari) volcano disaster.
The Court's Ruling and Compensation Details
The legal proceedings following the devastating 2019 White Island volcanic eruption concluded with a significant court order for compensation. A New Zealand court mandated the payment of NZ$10 million to individuals affected by the tragedy.
Key Aspects of the Verdict:
- Compensation Amount: A total of NZ$10 million (equivalent to approximately £4.8 million or $6 million USD) was ordered.
- Beneficiaries: This compensation is specifically designated for the victims of the White Island volcano disaster, aiming to provide financial redress for their losses and suffering.
- Responsible Parties: Tour operators involved in the excursions to White Island were held accountable by the court and ordered to make these payments.
Background to the White Island Disaster
The White Island volcano, also known as Whakaari, erupted on December 9, 2019. At the time of the eruption, 47 people, including tourists and guides, were on the active volcanic island. The sudden and violent eruption caused widespread injuries, many severe, and tragically led to the deaths of 22 individuals. The aftermath prompted extensive investigations and legal actions to establish culpability and secure compensation for those impacted by the catastrophic event.
Summary of the Lawsuit's Outcome
The table below summarizes the critical details of the court's decision regarding the White Island lawsuit:
Detail | Outcome/Figure |
---|---|
Total Compensation | NZ$10 million (£4.8m; $6m) |
Beneficiaries | Victims of the White Island volcano disaster |
Parties Ordered to Pay | Tour operators |
Fatalities from Disaster | 22 people |
This ruling underscores the legal system's commitment to holding operators accountable for safety failures and providing financial relief to those who suffered profound losses in the White Island tragedy.