In a significant legal development, the owners of Whakaari/White Island in New Zealand, where a deadly eruption occurred in 2019, have had their conviction overturned by the High Court.
High Court Overturns Conviction of New Zealand Volcano Owners After Deadly Eruption
High Court Overturns Conviction of New Zealand Volcano Owners After Deadly Eruption
New Zealand's High Court dismisses conviction of Whakaari Management Limited for 2019 eruption that killed 22.
The tragedy at the active volcano claimed 22 lives and left many others injured, leading to a fine and reparations ordered against Whakaari Management Limited (WML). However, the High Court ruled that the owners were not responsible for public safety, sparking discussions on landowner liability.
The 2019 eruption at Whakaari/White Island resulted in extensive human loss; the volcano had been increasingly active prior to the incident, involving numerous tourists on the island at the time. Justice Simon Moore emphasized the emotional toll of the case but concluded that WML could depend on external tour operators for safety assessments. Thirteen parties faced charges, but WML's was the final verdict delivered, with six other parties previously pleading guilty and others having charges dismissed.
Legal representatives for the Buttle family, the owners since the 1930s, welcomed the ruling, expressing hope for clarity on liability for landowners in similar situations. Worksafe NZ, the regulatory body involved, is reportedly reviewing the decision and considering further actions.
The 2019 eruption at Whakaari/White Island resulted in extensive human loss; the volcano had been increasingly active prior to the incident, involving numerous tourists on the island at the time. Justice Simon Moore emphasized the emotional toll of the case but concluded that WML could depend on external tour operators for safety assessments. Thirteen parties faced charges, but WML's was the final verdict delivered, with six other parties previously pleading guilty and others having charges dismissed.
Legal representatives for the Buttle family, the owners since the 1930s, welcomed the ruling, expressing hope for clarity on liability for landowners in similar situations. Worksafe NZ, the regulatory body involved, is reportedly reviewing the decision and considering further actions.
