White Island

The owners of New Zealand’s White Island (Whakaari), where a volcanic eruption in 2019 killed 22 tourists and local guides, have had their conviction overturned by the country's High Court.

• About White Island (Whakaari): An active composite stratovolcano in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand, 48 km off the coast of Whakatāne (North Island).
• Volcanic Activity: Most active cone volcano in New Zealand.

o Formed over the past 150,000 years due to continuous activity.

o Last major eruption: December 9, 2019 (caused fatalities & injuries).

• Geographical Features: Covers 325 hectares (only 30% above sea level; the rest is submerged).
• Diameter: 2 km, Peak height: 321 m above sea level.

o Features hot springs, geysers, and fumaroles.

• Historical & Ownership Facts: Named by Capt. James Cook in 1769.

o Privately owned; declared a private scenic reserve in 1953.

o A site of tourism and geological research.