NZ, under Ardern, is becoming an even worse totalitarian state. While it may not have been wise to visit the island, life is about risk; after all, why visit a volcano in the first place if not to say “I’ve been there” which is part of the fun in going? These “unnamed” groups will now face charges and fines in retrospect and all because those who got caught in the eruption, or their families, want to sue the taxpayer.
“These “unnamed” groups will now face charges and fines in retrospect and all because those who got caught in the eruption, or their families, want to sue the taxpayer.”
I understand the ‘buyer beware’ concept, and I usually support it, but we are pretty good at predicting eruptions - although not perfect.
In this case, the government, the cruise line, and the excursion company had the information that the volcano was at its highest risk of blowing. The passengers, however, did not - they had no clue as to risk. Had they been informed, I’m sure some would have gone anyway (after all, what you don’t see can’t hurt you) - but others wouldn’t have and most of the liability would have fallen on the passengers for making the decision to go. On top of that, after it blows, a private company did the helicopter rescues (at their own expense), and the government wouldn’t even attempt going there...definitely causing unnecessary loss of lives. It was a horrible situation (obviously).
Anyway, lots of good videos on this!