On November 18 the alert level for Whakaari/White Island lifted to 2 on the 0-5 scale, indicating moderate volcanic unrest, prompting questions as to why tours were still going ahead on the island when the eruption occurred. NZDF Recovery personnel at Whakaari/White Island. Information obtained from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed tourism activity, like that on Whakaari/White Island, is subject to adventure tourism regulations under the Health and Safety at Work Regulations 2016, as well as the more general health and safety laws. NZ Police Police divers prepare to search the waters near Whakaari/White Island. "While the minister has territorial authority, that doesn't make her responsible for decisions about access to the island, permitting tourism activities or health and safety."

Source: Stuff December 16, 2019 03:00 UTC