White Island tourist tragedy

FIVE tourists have been killed and 11 are still missing after a volcano erupted on New Zealand’s White Island in the Bay of Plenty yesterday.

Australians are believed to be among the victims, with many exploring the island at the time of the eruption as part of a land excursion during an Ovation of the Seas Royal Caribbean cruise.

The cruise line released a statement today expressing their shock and sadness at the news.

“The news from White Island is devastating, the details that are emerging are heartbreaking,” Royal Caribbean said.

“We are communicating with our guests and their families and we’re making sure they are taken care of in terms of medical help, counselling, accommodation, and transport”.

Media reports on the ground suggest 24 Australians were on the island at the time of tragedy, with three of the five confirmed dead believed to be Australian.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison conveyed his sorrow at a press conference this morning.

“This is a very, very hard day for many families whose loved ones have been caught up in this terrible tragedy - I fear there is worse to come,” he said.

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has also expressed its sympathy for the tourists caught up in the disaster.

“We express our sincere condolences to those who have lost loved ones and our thoughts are with those who have suffered injuries,” a CLIA spokesperson said today.

Ovation of the Seas remains docked in Tauranga today until further notice.

Family members concerned about relatives aboard Ovation of the Seas can call 1300 026 240 in Australia & 0800 002 141 in NZ.