New Zealand Volcano Disaster Victims Awarded NZ$10 Million in Damages

Victims and families affected by the tragic eruption of a volcano in New Zealand in December 2019, which resulted in the loss of 22 lives and left many survivors with severe burns, have been awarded a total of NZ$10 million (approximately US$6 million) in damages. The compensation, ordered by the Auckland District Court on Friday, is to be paid by five companies responsible for transporting 47 tourists to the volcanic island on the day of the eruption. The companies, including the island’s owners, Whakaari Management Limited, White Island Tours, and helicopter firm Volcanic Air Safaris, were also fined for their roles in the disaster.

Judge Evangelos Thomas described the awarded sum as “no more than a token recognition” of the immense suffering endured by the victims and their families. He highlighted the extensive physical, mental, and emotional trauma experienced by the group, many of whom continue to live with the physical scars from that day. The court’s decision comes as an acknowledgment of the victims’ harrowing stories, which Judge Thomas found both heartbreaking and inspiring.

In his ruling, Judge Thomas emphasized the failure of the sentenced companies to properly assess and mitigate risks, which ultimately exposed tourists to the danger of serious injury or death. He noted that the reparation amounts might be adjusted in certain cases, particularly for victims who had lost parents in the disaster. The judgment aims to bring some measure of relief to those affected by one of New Zealand’s most devastating natural disasters in recent history.

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