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 9 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.