Bodies taken off volcano-hit island

SIX bodies have been taken off volcanic White Island in New Zealand following Monday’s eruption which has left 16 people dead with many more being treated in hospital.

New Zealand police and defence force personnel began the retrieval operation at first light today, despite ongoing warnings of further activity from the volcano.

While the rescue team successfully recovered six bodies, the search was continuing for two more bodies, believed to be those of New Zealand tour guides.

Police said the recovered bodies had been transferred via helicopter to a navy ship, the HMNZS Wellington, and would be taken to nearby Auckland.

“The operation was not without risk but thanks to sound planning and the skills of the specialist team involved we have recovered the six bodies,” New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush said in a statement.

“The environment the recovery team faced today was highly unpredictable and challenging. They showed absolute courage and commitment to ensure we can offer some closure to the families and friends of those who have lost loved ones.”

The recovery mission began amid sombre scenes near the island, 30 miles off the coast of the Bay Of Plenty on the north-east side of New Zealand’s North Island.

After police confirmed conditions were stable enough to allow the retrieval operation to proceed, a traditional blessing was held at sea with family members of the victims, as two New Zealand Defence Force helicopters took off from the nearby coastal town Whakatane.

Eight military specialists wearing protective clothing and using breathing apparatus were involved in recovering the bodies, as scientists warned of toxic and corrosive gases on the island.

The search for bodies.