WHITE ISLAND TRAGEDY ‘We are all devastated’
As the Weekly went to print, the list of casualties was yet to be confirmed, but the magnitude of this week’s disaster at Whakaari/White Island was difficult to bear.
Coming just two weeks before Christmas, the eruption stole precious lives, critically wounded dozens, and broke the hearts of Kiwis – and indeed, the world, with so many international visitors caught up in the tragedy.
The morning after the disaster, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern flew to meet with those affected, including people lying injured at Whakatane Hospital, and brave first responders.
At the Whakatane Fire Station, she spoke to some of the helicopter pilots, firefighters and ambulance staff who fought to save lives. Later that day, back in Wellington, she addressed Parliament, offering her condolences to the victims and commending the first responders for their bravery.
“In the immediate aftermath of the eruption,” she said, “a number of helicopter pilots made the conscious decision to fly to the island to try to rescue people. I want to acknowledge their courage.
“As we focus on the tragic events, I’m reminded [that] there is no limit to New Zealand’s capacity to mobilise, to respond, to care and embrace those impacted by tragedy. We are a nation full of ordinary people who do extraordinary things.”
Jacinda (39) spoke at length of the nation’s sympathy for those affected. “To those who have lost or are missing family and friends, we share in your grief and sorrow, and we are devastated. To our international partners and friends, we will do everything we can to support you as you have supported us in times past. In particular, our family in Australia has been heavily impacted. We feel the pull of our bond acutely at this time.”
To those from afar who’d lost loved ones, she had a heartfelt message. “You are forever linked to our nation and we will hold you close.”
JACINDA’S MESSAGE OF LOVE