Before the devastating eruption, I enjoyed a White Island Cruise in New Zealand. Little did I know that years later, this volcano would erupt and kill 22 people on the island in the Bay of Plenty. Because tours are now cancelled, I wanted to share these photos with information on this dramatic island.
Whakaari / White Island Background
Captain Cook name this island after the white steam pluming from the volcano. And the Maori named it Te Puia Whakaari, meaning “The Dramatic island.” It’s an active stratovolcano just 48 km (30 m) from New Zealand’s North Island in the Bay of Plenty. Below the island is a submarine volcano, much larger than the island. The island is a cone volcano, built up from volcanic activity for 150,000 years. Currently, its elevation is 321 m (1.053 ft). Since 1769 when Captain Cook first saw this volcano, it has been continuously releasing gases. From 1975-2000, Whakaari continuously erupted. This is the world’s longest eruption episode recorded in history. Then, again it erupted in 2012, 2016 and 2019.
The last eruption in 2019 was especially devastating because 22 tourists died. A guided tour led 47 people on to the island for a tour of its caldera. And within seconds it erupted. And a second eruption closely followed. The tourists were ordered to jump in the water. However, the death toll with additional 25 seriously injured is a grim reminder the humbling power of Mother Nature.
My Whakaari / White Island Cruise
Our day for the White Island Cruise was crystal clear, making for a very lucid experience. We stayed a healthy distance and cruised back and forth in front of the caldera steaming into the air. I saw the yellow sulfur sprinkled around the base. Aghast, I just kept thinking, “OMG this is a National Geographic moment.” I knew we were witnessing something very special, unique and exciting.
Five years later, the fatal eruption happened here. During the 2019 White Island Eruption, 49 tourists were one the island and 22 people died. Netflix showed an incredible documentary, “The Volcano: Whakaari Rescue” about the devastating event.
From my observations, I would have never taken a tour on this Vesuvian island. So sorry for those that perished here and wish to be sensitive and sincere about my regrets and prayers for these innocent people.
Related: Stunning Tauranga & Mt Maunganui Attractions in Bay of Plenty
Overall, Lessons Learned
My wish is to share these photos because tours have been cancelled to this island for now. However, also I want it to remind us to be mindful travelers. I am the first to admit that travelling inspires me to take risks and try new adventures. But we must always remember the power and precariousness of Mother Nature and enjoy her beauty and danger at a healthy distance.
Next: Rotorua’s Unique Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park & Mud Spa
