2025 Phase One Coronial Inquest hearing

The First Phase Coronial Inquest hearing opened in the Whakatāne District Court on Friday 3 October 2025.

The hearing reconvened in Auckland on Monday 6 October 2025, where it continued until its completion. 

It addressed matters from the eruption on 9 December 2019. Broadly, those issues are:

  • The events of 9 December 2019
  • The emergency response.
  • Issues relating to those who were left on Whakaari.
  • Medical treatment.
  • The timing and location of the deaths.
  • The causes of the deaths and related issues.

The second phase will take place in Auckland in 2026, on a date to be fixed.

 

 
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