A memorial - White Island

 On December 9,2019 Whakaari/White Island,an active volcano if the Bay of Plenty explosively erupted. Twenty two people of the 47 on the island at the time died. Why is that significant for us? 

 Albert and Brien took a vacation to New Zealand and joined a tour group that was headed by a friendly guide ,Hayden Marshall-Inman from White Island Tours. There had been heightened alert levels even at the time Al and Brien took their tour to the island but it was on their wish list and they went to see the marvels of an active volcano. During the tour, Al and Brien spent time talking with Hayden and enjoyed his company. They mentioned that they would like to see a rugby game while in New Zealand. When they returned from the tour, Hayden graciously offered to get them tickets for a game and they were overwhelmed with his kindness.  It fulfilled another of their wish list items and when they went to pick p the tickets, there was no charge as Hayden had paid for them.  This was an example of the kindness and caring from the New Zealanders that Al and Brien experienced during their entire trip. 

 On December 9,2019 when the island erupted,Hayden was guiding a group of tourists along the trails. His body was never found. Many survivors credited him with helping get as many as possible to safety. Today when we sailed by the island, as we watched the smoke still rise from the back side, Al raised his glass and had a beer with Hayden. he was a good mate who left a lasting impression on those he came into contact with. 

Kia Ora Hayden