The High Court of New Zealand has overturned the conviction of the owners of a volcano that erupted in 2019 and killed 22 people.
In 2023, Whakaari Management Limited (WML) was fined little more than NZ$1 million ($560,000; £445,000) for failing to ensure the safety of tourists. Additionally, they were mandated to compensate the victims with NZ$4.8 million.
But after an appeal, the High Court decided on Friday that the firm was solely in charge of the land and had no responsibility for the protection of the public.
The most active volcano in New Zealand, White Island, also called Whakaari in Māori, has been erupting in some capacity since 2011.
