My daughter Jen sent me a link to the NZ Herald online news site early this morning, and I read with a heavy heart about the eruption on White Island and the tragic loss of life. I am sure that in the days ahead there will be questions and recriminations, as people look for answers and who is to blame. As a New Zealander far from home, and an adventurous traveller, I feel hugely sad reading about this. No one sets out on an adventure, or helps others to experience adventures, for it to end this way. Sometimes the desire to see or experience things outweighs the potential for a risky outcome. It doesn’t make it a bad decision, but in this case it was hugely unlucky. I too have signed waivers acknowledging I accept risks and responsibilities, so there but for the grace of the universe go I.
