The eruption of Whakaari (White Island) on 9th December 2019 led to multiple fatalities from tour groups visiting the volcano. The owners of the island, and the Institute of Geological Nuclear Sciences were both prosecuted by WorkSafe New Zealand.
From a natural hazard perspective, the outcomes provide a case study of interpretation for management of risk “in so far as reasonably practicable” (SFARP) and for learnings on risk culture, systems, and monitoring.
Key findings were the lack of follow up from past safety recommendations, and the lack of a ‘what if?’ after the 2016 night-time eruption.
The snapshot of learnings below come from the written judgments and there are over 20 learnings that may apply to broader management of natural hazard risk.