She said the island was the most active in New Zealand and yet the country did not seem ready for the disaster.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe eruption itself was a geological event that could not have been avoided. But perhaps the suffering of those impacted that day could have been avoided,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
She said many families consider that visitors to the island should not have been permitted at all.<\/p>\n
They asked the coroner to set out a complete account of what occurred on the island the day it erupted, including where everyone was and what they were wearing, and how they were taken off the island.<\/p>\n
Counsel assisting families of deceased and the survivors, Anna Adams. Photo \/ RNZ, Calvin Samuel<\/p>\n
Adams noted that families and survivors are concerned there was a lack of urgency necessary for a mass casualty event.<\/p>\n
\u201cThirty-nine people were rescued from the island on the day of the eruption, entirely by civilian boats and helicopters.\u201d<\/p>\n
Eight people were left behind, presumed deceased.<\/p>\n
However, she said that generally, the bereaved families and survivors recognised those who came to help on the day and were grateful for the care they received.<\/p>\n
Opening statements were also given by counsel for the police, Health New Zealand, Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust, the National Emergency Management Agency and Whakatane District Council.<\/p>\n
The inquest, which has been delayed several years due to criminal proceedings related to the events, was formally opened with a prayer and mihi from local iwi, Ngati Awa.<\/p>\n
It will now move to Auckland from Monday October 6th, after the coroner made the decision to hear evidence at Newmarket following submissions from families and interested parties.<\/p>\n
Coroner Marcus Elliot. Photo \/ George Heard<\/p>\n