Letters: Volcanoes dangerous but fascinating

View from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter of White Island. Photo / Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust

I cannot begin to comprehend the magnitude of the White Island tragedy and feel genuine sympathy for all those involved in any aspect of this disaster.

Like so many, I have a fascination with volcanoes and we are fortunate to have several accessible active ones on our doorstep.

Part of the excitement is the fear factor of their unpredictability and I am sure that is a drawcard for many.

On a visit to Vanuatu, we went to the island of Tanna specifically to climb Mt Yasur, walk around its crater full of boiling lava and watch this explode into the air right before our eyes.

We knew that two people had been killed by exploding molten lava the previous year, but that didn't deter us.

Yes, we signed a waiver and we knew the risks but decided, like many before us, that the thrill made those risks worthwhile.

People across the world have enjoyed the excitement of a volcano visit and unfortunately, some have been injured or killed. That is the risk, just like the risk involved in any adventure activity.

All precautions are taken but accidents as a result of nature being nature are inevitable and always tragic.

I would hate anyone to be held criminally responsible for this tragedy of unpredictable nature.

I would also hate this disaster to deter others from enjoying the thrill of experiencing active volcanoes close up. (Abridged)

Paddi Hodgkiss
Rotorua

Scooter hazards

No to electric scooters.

Pedestrians going about their business in the CBD have enough problems on the footpaths with jaywalkers, speeding skateboarders, speeding cyclists and even speeding mobility scooters without having to endure the added hazards created by the riders of these abominations.

Ronald Mayes
Rotorua

The Rotorua Daily Post welcomes letters from readers. Please note the following:

• Letters should not exceed 250 words.

• They should be opinion based on facts or current events.

• If possible, please email.

• No noms-de-plume.

• Letters will be published with names and suburb/city.

• Please include full name, address and contact details for our records only.

• Local letter writers given preference.

• Rejected letters are not normally acknowledged.

• Letters may be edited, abridged, or rejected at the Editor's discretion.

• The Editor's decision on publication is final.

Email editor@dailypost.co.nz