Sending aroha to eruption victims

A week on from the deadly eruption on Whakaari/White Island, the public are being urged to remember those still fighting for their lives.

Under a threatening sky, about 50 people gathered inside the Hamilton Gardens pavilion on Monday evening to pray, sing, and to remember those impacted by the tragedy.

The event dubbed ‘‘He Tai Aroha – A show of Aroha’’ was organised by Waikato-Tainui and Hamilton City Council.

In the aftermath of the December 9 eruption, many of the badly injured were flown to Waikato Hospital for treatment.

‘‘As we look across at Waikato Hospital, let’s continue to send our aroha, our love, and our best wishes for those who remain fighting for their lives,’’ Hamilton mayor Paula Southgate told the gathering.

‘‘Let them know that we’re still thinking of them and we’re here for them.’’

Fifteen people remain in hospitals across New Zealand, 11 in a critical condition. Thirteen Australians have been transferred home to receive treatment but one has since died, taking the death toll to 16.

Ngati Awa representative Joe

Harawira said the impact of the Whakaari/White Island eruption had been profound.

On Sunday, Ngati Awa welcomed 17 Australians from two families into their wharenui and prayed for those recovering in hospital and for the grieving.

‘‘I saw the coming together of peoples and the spirit of oneness,’’ Harawira said.

Waikato DHB chief executive Dr Kevin Snee paid tribute to medical staff involved in treating the injured.