In a recent development, tour booking agents and managers of White Island in New Zealand have been directed to pay fines and reparations amounting to nearly $13 million. This decision comes in the aftermath of a tragic volcanic eruption in 2019 that claimed the lives of 22 individuals.
Following a three-month trial last year, the holding company of the island's owners, a boat tour operator, and three helicopter tour companies were found guilty of safety breaches. White Island, also known as Whakaari, was a popular tourist spot before the eruption occurred on December 9, 2019, resulting in the deaths of several tourists and tour guides.
