New Zealand Court Overturns Conviction of Whakaari Volcano Owners

The High Court ruled that the company managing White Island was not legally responsible for ensuring safety during the 2019 eruption that killed 22 people.

• The High Court of New Zealand overturned the 2023 conviction of Whakaari Management Limited, the private owners of White Island, for breaching workplace safety laws.
• The 2019 volcanic eruption on White Island resulted in 22 deaths and serious injuries to 25 others, primarily international tourists and local guides.
• Justice Simon Moore ruled that Whakaari Management was not responsible for managing safety on the island, as it only granted access to tour operators and scientists through permits.
• The ruling absolves the company from paying millions in fines and reparations, which were initially ordered in the 2023 trial.
• The case has led to changes in New Zealand's adventure tourism regulations, requiring operators to take more comprehensive steps to inform customers of potential hazards.

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