Whakaari 5 years on…
December 9th, 2019 changed our community forever.
Today we remember those who lost their lives in the eruption, and those who survived, and we are thankful for the first responders and helpers at that time.
5 years ago, the EBCF setup a fund collecting donations from NZ and overseas to assist local victims of the eruption, their families, and first responders.
This year as we reflect on the eruption 5 years ago we are pleased to be part of the Whakaari Memorial Fund, The Eastern Bay Community Foundation warmly invites donations toward a long-lasting physical memorial to those affected by the Whakaari eruption tragedy of 9th December 2019.
The Whakaari Memorial will be a fitting tribute to honour those who lost their lives, and to create a space of solace and remembrance where whanau, friends and the community can gather. The project is led by the Whakaari Memorial Steering Group. This group comprises representatives from the Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board, Te Runanga o Ngāti Awa and the community, with support from Whakatāne District Council.
The concept design for the physical memorial is under development and has involved input from those most directly impacted by the events of 9 December 2019. When finalised, it will be shared with the community and everyone interested.
The Whakaari whānau/families have expressed a desire for the Whakatāne riverfront location, as an area that has great meaning and symbolism. A process is currently being worked through to determine the precise location.
The Eastern Bay Community Foundation will be the repository for the funds and the Whakaari Memorial Fund is a key community project of the Foundation.
All donations - both large and small -are now welcome. Find out more here.
