The sudden eruption of Whakaari/White Island in 2019 resulted in the death of 22 people and ongoing pain and suffering for their families and the injured survivors. It was a tragedy the likes of which had not been seen before by those who responded. It presented challenges that required dedication, dignity and innovative solutions. The local police, DVI specialists and coronial investigators who rose to those challenges share their experiences. By Ellen Brook.
Police led two recovery missions to Whakaari/White Island after the December 9, 2019, eruption - one on December 13 and one on December 15. By Ellen Brook.
A tight team of Bay of Plenty police officers have dedicated themselves to helping the families of those who died as a result of the Whakaari/White Island eruption and to the survivors. By Ellen Brook.
The professionalism, competency and commitment of police to shut down the protesters’ occupation of Parliament grounds and the nearby streets, are to be applauded and I am immensely proud of the officers involved.
The burden of mental health callouts on police nationwide could be significantly reduced if a proven multi-agency response model is approved, and funded, for use in Police districts.