Rocked by earthquakes and volcano eruptions, New Zealand is a nation that has had to look more closely at risk – and how it is assessed – than most other countries have had to.
A national condolence book for the victims of the volcanic eruption on White Island was set up in the public foyer of New Zealand’s parliament this week. It is an all too familiar scene. A plain table adorned with two New Zealand flags, two books and two pens. Passers-by are taking turns to pay their respects once again to the victims of tragedy.
New Zealand has seen more than its fair share of tragedy over the past decade. This year has been particularly traumatic with the nation only just recovering from the Christchurch massacre in March.
