The following is adapted from a media release provided by the New Zealand Defence Force.

A New Zealand Defence Force helicopter lifted a 2.4-tonne shipping container to the volcanic White Island near Whakatāne to provide visitors an emergency shelter in case of an eruption.

Air Component Commander Air Commodore Darryn Webb said an NH90 helicopter from the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s 3 Squadron shifted the six-metre container from Whakatāne Airport, about 50 km south of the island. The container was placed on an old mining site on the island to provide a natural protective barrier in case of a volcanic eruption.

“We are pleased that we have been able to help address what has been a longstanding concern of communities as well as police and emergency management authorities in the Bay of Plenty and Whakatāne areas. The airlifting of the container is the latest example of how the NZDF assists our communities and other government agencies,” Webb said.

White Island is an active volcano that is visited by over 10,000 tourists every year. It fluctuates through periods of increased activity and quiescence, and last erupted in April.

Clinton Naude, the Director of Emergency Management Bay of Plenty, said the shipping container will help ensure people have a safe area to go to in the event of a volcanic eruption or an emergency event.

“The shipping container will also be used to store safety gear, spare clothing, food supplies and emergency and rescue items,” Naude said.