Close to 30 survivors and family members of those who died or were injured in the Whakaari White Island eruption on December 9, 2019, are expected to return to Whakatāne this weekend for the fifth anniversary commemorations.

The events aim to honour the lives lost and recognise the resilience of the survivors, as well as the wider community impacted by the eruption.

The memorial activities begin today with the Whakaari Hayden Marshall-Inman Memorial Golf Tournament, to be held at Ōhope Golf Links, followed by a fundraising concert, Whakaari Waiata, tomorrow evening.

The funds raised from the tournament and concert will contribute towards the creation of a permanent memorial to honour those affected by the eruption.

At 5am on Monday, a karakia (prayer) will be held at Te Hau Tutua Park at The Heads and will be open to the public as part of the commemoration. Later, a private memorial service will take place at Te Mānuka Tūtahi Marae.

The commemoration is organised by the Whakaari Steering Committee, which includes representatives from Runanga o Ngāti Awa and the Whakatāne District Council.

Steering committee member Mark Inman, brother of tour guide Hayden Marshall-Inman, who died in the eruption, said it was important to recognise the community’s collective grief and healing as the eruption impacted not only those directly involved but also the entire community.

“A key aspect of these events is holding on to the memories of not just those we’ve lost, but also those who survived, and those who offered support,” said Mr Inman.

“There were many people who weren’t first responders but still played a vital role in the aftermath, providing support and care. It’s essential we acknowledge the impact on them.

“It is all-encompassing when a community gets hit so hard.”

Among those returning to Whakatāne this weekend is Australian Jesse Langford, who lost his mother, father, and sister in the eruption.

Mr Inman, who has kept in close contact with Mr Langford over the years, shared that he was doing well and had recently graduated from university.

The golf tournament and concert are not only an opportunity to reflect and remember but also serve as fundraisers for the permanent memorial.

“It’s crucial to create a place of remembrance for everyone affected, so that they can heal and ensure that no one is forgotten,” he said.

Mr Inman encouraged everyone to come along to the family friendly concert, taking place on the greens at Ōhope Golf Links tomorrow. Tickets can be booked online: whakaariwaiata.co.nz