Australia and New Zealand would deliver the highest-attended&nbsp;women's&nbsp;soccer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-australia-new-zealand-join-forces-for-2023-womens-world-cup-bid-268042">World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;in&nbsp;2023</a>, with projections of more than 1.5 million spectators and an average crowd of 24,000 if they are&nbsp;awarded&nbsp;the tournament, officials said on Tuesday.

The trans-Tasman neighbours last week launched a joint bid backed by both governments to bring the tournament to the southern hemisphere for the first time in&nbsp;2023.

Their official bid book was presented to&nbsp;world&nbsp;governing body <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-invest-1billion-in-womens-football-in-the-next-four-years-infantino-257832">FIFA</a> last Friday.

Brazil, Colombia and Japan also submitted formal bids to host the tournament, the first to feature 32 teams.

This year's 24-team&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;in France, won by the United States, set&nbsp;records for attendance and attracted unprecedented viewing figures on television.

Average attendance in France was about 23,500, with the final in Lyon attracting 57,900. The 2015 tournament in Canada sold a&nbsp;record&nbsp;total of 1.35 million tickets.

New Zealand Football President Johanna Wood said their bid, which is marketed with the tag-line 'As One', was also built on providing a legacy for soccer in both countries and throughout the South Pacific.

"Moving the dial for&nbsp;women's&nbsp;football across our confederations and beyond sits at the very heart of our vision for the FIFA&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;2023, as well as leading the way for gender equity and creating strong role models for women in leadership," Wood said in a statement on Tuesday.

"We stand ready 'As&nbsp;One'&nbsp;to deliver FIFA the most successful&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;ever, a ground-breaking tournament whose impact will reverberate across the globe."

The pool phase for the joint&nbsp;Australasian bid would be split evenly with four groups in each country.

Auckland's Eden Park, the site of two men's rugby&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;finals, would host the opening ceremony and first match.

Australia, with its bigger stadia, would then host the majority of the knockout matches with five of the eight second round games, three quarter-finals, one semi-final and the playoff for third.

Sydney's redeveloped Olympic Stadium, with a capacity of 70,000, would be the venue for the final.

The&nbsp;Australasian bid is the first that crosses the boundaries of FIFA's six confederations. Australia realigned with the Asian confederation in early 2006, while New Zealand remained in the much smaller Oceania region.

The&nbsp;2023&nbsp;hosts will be decided by FIFA next year.

Australia and New Zealand would deliver the highest-attended women's soccer World Cup in 2023, with projections of more than 1.5 million spectators and an average crowd of 24,000 if they are awarded the tournament, officials said on Tuesday.

Australia and New Zealand would deliver the highest-attended women's soccer World Cup in 2023, with projections of more than 1.5 million spectators and an average crowd of 24,000 if they are awarded the tournament, officials said on Tuesday. The trans-Tasman neighbours last week launched a joint bid backed by both governments to bring the tournament to the southern hemisphere for the first time in 2023. Their official bid book was presented to world governing body FIFA last Friday. Brazil, Colombia and Japan also submitted formal bids to host the tournament, the first to feature 32 teams. This year's 24-team World Cup in France, won by the United States, set records for attendance and attracted unprecedented viewing figures on television. Average attendance in France was about 23,500, with the final in Lyon attracting 57,900. The 2015 tournament in Canada sold a record total of 1.35 million tickets. New Zealand Football President Johanna Wood said their bid, which is marketed with the tag-line 'As One', was also built on providing a legacy for soccer in both countries and throughout the South Pacific. "Moving the dial for women's football across our confederations and beyond sits at the very heart of our vision for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, as well as leading the way for gender equity and creating strong role models for women in leadership," Wood said in a statement on Tuesday. "We stand ready 'As One' to deliver FIFA the most successful Women's World Cup ever, a ground-breaking tournament whose impact will reverberate across the globe." The pool phase for the joint Australasian bid would be split evenly with four groups in each country. Auckland's Eden Park, the site of two men's rugby World Cup finals, would host the opening ceremony and first match. Australia, with its bigger stadia, would then host the majority of the knockout matches with five of the eight second round games, three quarter-finals, one semi-final and the playoff for third. Sydney's redeveloped Olympic Stadium, with a capacity of 70,000, would be the venue for the final. The Australasian bid is the first that crosses the boundaries of FIFA's six confederations. Australia realigned with the Asian confederation in early 2006, while New Zealand remained in the much smaller Oceania region. The 2023 hosts will be decided by FIFA next year.

Australasia promise record crowds if awarded 2023 Women's World Cup

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday that official inquiries into last week's fatal volcano eruption could take up to a year, and will carry potential criminal penalties of up to five years in jail.

Ardern also announced an NZ$5 million ($3.2 million) fund to help small businesses affected by the eruption, after New Zealanders held a minute of silence to honour the victims a week on from the tragedy.

The official death toll from the surprise eruption on White Island, also known by its Maori name of Whakaari, stands at 16. Two people whose bodies are believed to be in the waters around the island are still officially listed as missing.

A further 26 people remain in hospitals in New Zealand and Australia, many in critical condition with severe burn injuries.

"There remains now questions to be asked and questions to be answered," Ardern told reporters in Wellington after she led the country in a minute of silence for the dead and injured, who included tourists from United States, Germany, China, Britain and Malaysia.

There has been growing criticism that people were allowed on the island, a popular destination for day-trippers, given the risks of an active volcano. That has led to speculation the tragedy could foretell major changes for New Zealand's thrillseeker tourism economy.

WorkSafe, New Zealand's primary regulator for workplace-related incidents, has opened a health and safety investigation, Ardern said, while the coroner is conducting a separate inquiry.

Worksafe can prosecute individuals and companies for breaches of health and safety laws, with penalties including fines of up to NZ$3 million and jail terms of up to five years, Ardern said.

A coronial investigation is automatically triggered in the event of a sudden, violent or unnatural death. A coroner can also make recommendations to prevent similar deaths in the future.

Ardern said the Worksafe investigation could take a year, while the coronial inquiry was "also likely to continue for some time."

The NZ$5 million support fund is expected to be distributed among businesses in Whakatane, the mainland coastal town that serves as the jumping-off point for trips to Whakaari. Asked if operators of tours to the island would be among the beneficiaries, Ardern said that specifics had not yet been determined.

Search ongoing

At White Island, recovery teams again conducted aerial searches in a bid to locate the bodies of the last two people known to have been on the island.

Six bodies were retrieved from the island on Friday, and officials believe the remaining two bodies are now likely to be in the surrounding waters. Naval divers are scheduled to continue the search on Tuesday.

"We will continue the operation for as long as we have a chance of recovering those bodies," New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush told Radio New Zealand.

Many of dead and injured were Australians on a day tour from a Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd ship. The 16-deck Ovation of the Seas docked back in Sydney on Monday, with some passengers disembarking in tears as they were reunited with family members.

Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne met with her New Zealand counterpart in Wellington on Monday to express Australia's thanks to emergency and medical crews.

Legal experts said last week they expected to see lawsuits filed in the US courts by injured passengers and families of those who died. Royal Caribbean's potential liability for the deadly excursion could hinge on whether the eruption was an unforeseeable "act of God," maritime lawyers told Reuters.

"We will to continue to provide ongoing support and services to them and their families during this difficult time," a spokeswoman for the company said in an emailed statement on Monday.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday that official inquiries into last week's fatal volcano eruption could take up to a year, and will carry potential criminal penalties of up to five years in jail.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday that official inquiries into last week's fatal volcano eruption could take up to a year, and will carry potential criminal penalties of up to five years in jail. Ardern also announced an NZ$5 million ($3.2 million) fund to help small businesses affected by the eruption, after New Zealanders held a minute of silence to honour the victims a week on from the tragedy. The official death toll from the surprise eruption on White Island, also known by its Maori name of Whakaari, stands at 16. Two people whose bodies are believed to be in the waters around the island are still officially listed as missing. A further 26 people remain in hospitals in New Zealand and Australia, many in critical condition with severe burn injuries. "There remains now questions to be asked and questions to be answered," Ardern told reporters in Wellington after she led the country in a minute of silence for the dead and injured, who included tourists from United States, Germany, China, Britain and Malaysia. There has been growing criticism that people were allowed on the island, a popular destination for day-trippers, given the risks of an active volcano. That has led to speculation the tragedy could foretell major changes for New Zealand's thrillseeker tourism economy. WorkSafe, New Zealand's primary regulator for workplace-related incidents, has opened a health and safety investigation, Ardern said, while the coroner is conducting a separate inquiry. Worksafe can prosecute individuals and companies for breaches of health and safety laws, with penalties including fines of up to NZ$3 million and jail terms of up to five years, Ardern said. A coronial investigation is automatically triggered in the event of a sudden, violent or unnatural death. A coroner can also make recommendations to prevent similar deaths in the future. Ardern said the Worksafe investigation could take a year, while the coronial inquiry was "also likely to continue for some time." The NZ$5 million support fund is expected to be distributed among businesses in Whakatane, the mainland coastal town that serves as the jumping-off point for trips to Whakaari. Asked if operators of tours to the island would be among the beneficiaries, Ardern said that specifics had not yet been determined. Search ongoing At White Island, recovery teams again conducted aerial searches in a bid to locate the bodies of the last two people known to have been on the island. Six bodies were retrieved from the island on Friday, and officials believe the remaining two bodies are now likely to be in the surrounding waters. Naval divers are scheduled to continue the search on Tuesday. "We will continue the operation for as long as we have a chance of recovering those bodies," New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush told Radio New Zealand. Many of dead and injured were Australians on a day tour from a Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd ship. The 16-deck Ovation of the Seas docked back in Sydney on Monday, with some passengers disembarking in tears as they were reunited with family members. Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne met with her New Zealand counterpart in Wellington on Monday to express Australia's thanks to emergency and medical crews. Legal experts said last week they expected to see lawsuits filed in the US courts by injured passengers and families of those who died. Royal Caribbean's potential liability for the deadly excursion could hinge on whether the eruption was an unforeseeable "act of God," maritime lawyers told Reuters. "We will to continue to provide ongoing support and services to them and their families during this difficult time," a spokeswoman for the company said in an emailed statement on Monday.

Probes into New Zealand volcano tragedy to take months and carry criminal penalties

The New Zealand Police confirmed 15 deaths from the volcano eruption in New Zealand's White Island on Sunday, and said two are still missing.

Two still missing after 15 deaths from White Island's volcano eruption

The death toll from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-divers-search-contaminated-waters-for-volcano-victims-268253">New Zealand's White Island volcano eruption</a> rose to 18 Sunday, including two people whose bodies have not been recovered, police said.

A land search early Sunday failed to find any sign of the missing pair and divers returned to the sea in the afternoon amid increasing speculation both could be in the water.

Deputy police commissioner Mike Clement said there was "every chance" the bodies had been washed into the sea from the stream where they were last seen Monday.

He added that searchers were "satisfied that the area we searched near the jetty is clear of the bodies".

"The rescue teams are frustrated. We understand completely how frustrating it is for loved ones who want the bodies back," Clement said.

Forty-seven people were on the island -- a popular tourist attraction -- when the explosion happened.

The death toll now stands at 18 after an Australian victim who had been repatriated to Sydney died in hospital almost a week after the deadly eruption.

Another 26 survivors remain in New Zealand and Australian hospitals, of which at least 18 are listed as "critical" and fighting for their lives after the eruption on the desolate island, which is the country's most active volcano.

The family of the latest victim have requested his name and age not be released.

Police on Sunday named seven victims who have been officially identified including New Zealand tour guide Tipene James Te Rangi Ataahua Maangi, 24.

Four were Australians -- Zoe Ella Hosking, 15, her stepfather Gavin Brian Dallow, 53, 51-year-old Anthony James Langford and Karla Michelle Mathews, 32 -- along with Matthew Robert Hollander, 13 and Berend Lawrence Hollander, 16, who were US citizens with Australian permanent residency.

Clement said although the land and sea searches had so far been unsuccessful in finding the remaining bodies, police had not given up hope.

"There will come a time when we've done everything we can do, when we've done everything that's sensible but we're not there yet... we don't give up easily," he said.

Scientists monitoring White Island said there had been no further significant activity since last Monday's eruption but the risk remained with the volcano alert at Level Two, which indicates "moderate to heightened unrest with potential for eruption hazards".

A glow was visible from the vent area overnight "which confirms there is a high heat flow present," said Geoff Kilgour, a volcanologist with GNS Science, which monitors seismic and volcanic activity in New Zealand.

"This has been confirmed today by an aerial observation this morning that noted an active crater is emitting volcanic gas at a high rate and very high temperature" above 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit).

The disaster has raised questions about why tourists were allowed on a volcano where experts had recently raised threat levels.

The death toll from New Zealand's White Island volcano eruption rose to 18 Sunday, including two people whose bodies have not been recovered, police said. A land search early Sunday failed to find any sign of the missing pair and divers returned to the sea in the afternoon amid increasing speculation both could be in the water.

The death toll from New Zealand's White Island volcano eruption rose to 18 Sunday, including two people whose bodies have not been recovered, police said. A land search early Sunday failed to find any sign of the missing pair and divers returned to the sea in the afternoon amid increasing speculation both could be in the water. Deputy police commissioner Mike Clement said there was "every chance" the bodies had been washed into the sea from the stream where they were last seen Monday. He added that searchers were "satisfied that the area we searched near the jetty is clear of the bodies". "The rescue teams are frustrated. We understand completely how frustrating it is for loved ones who want the bodies back," Clement said. Forty-seven people were on the island -- a popular tourist attraction -- when the explosion happened. The death toll now stands at 18 after an Australian victim who had been repatriated to Sydney died in hospital almost a week after the deadly eruption. Another 26 survivors remain in New Zealand and Australian hospitals, of which at least 18 are listed as "critical" and fighting for their lives after the eruption on the desolate island, which is the country's most active volcano. The family of the latest victim have requested his name and age not be released. Police on Sunday named seven victims who have been officially identified including New Zealand tour guide Tipene James Te Rangi Ataahua Maangi, 24. Four were Australians -- Zoe Ella Hosking, 15, her stepfather Gavin Brian Dallow, 53, 51-year-old Anthony James Langford and Karla Michelle Mathews, 32 -- along with Matthew Robert Hollander, 13 and Berend Lawrence Hollander, 16, who were US citizens with Australian permanent residency. Clement said although the land and sea searches had so far been unsuccessful in finding the remaining bodies, police had not given up hope. "There will come a time when we've done everything we can do, when we've done everything that's sensible but we're not there yet... we don't give up easily," he said. Scientists monitoring White Island said there had been no further significant activity since last Monday's eruption but the risk remained with the volcano alert at Level Two, which indicates "moderate to heightened unrest with potential for eruption hazards". A glow was visible from the vent area overnight "which confirms there is a high heat flow present," said Geoff Kilgour, a volcanologist with GNS Science, which monitors seismic and volcanic activity in New Zealand. "This has been confirmed today by an aerial observation this morning that noted an active crater is emitting volcanic gas at a high rate and very high temperature" above 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit). The disaster has raised questions about why tourists were allowed on a volcano where experts had recently raised threat levels.

New Zealand eruption death toll rises to 18

Australia recorded one of their biggest wins over New Zealand on the fourth day of the first Test at Perth Stadium on Sunday.

Having trailed by 250 runs on the first innings the Kiwis were set a mammoth 468 to win -- which would have been a record chase in Test cricket -- on a deteriorating pitch after Australia declared at 217 for nine in their second innings.

The visitors were never in contention after losing their first wicket with just six runs on the board and were unable to push the match into a fifth day after Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins cleaned up the Kiwi tail under lights in Perth's first ever day-night Test.

New Zealand were dismissed for 171 and were beaten by 296 runs, the last five wickets falling in a hurry for just 17 runs.

It was just one run shy of their biggest losing margin to Australia -- in runs -- in a match where both teams batted twice.

Australia's biggest win, other than innings victories, was 297 runs in Auckland in 1974.

Starc (4-45), who claimed nine wickets for the match, and Cummins (2-31) used the pink ball to good effect under lights to bring the match to a quick conclusion after none of the recognised Kiwi batsmen offered significant resistance.

The chase started poorly, with opener Jeet Raval making just one before being caught at gully by Nathan Lyon (4-63) from the bowling of Starc.

Star batsman and captain Kane Williamson then made just 14, before falling to Lyon's first ball of the innings.

Williamson got off to a fast start with boundaries from the first two balls he faced, but was caught at short leg fending a ball that bounced and turned sharply off his glove into the hands of Matthew Wade.

Ross Taylor was their last real hope of making a revival but on 22 he tried to pull a Starc delivery and got a bottom edge through to wicketkeeper Tim Paine to give the left-arm quick his seventh wicket of the match.

Tom Latham showed plenty of application to face 68 balls for his 18, but was given out leg before wicket to Lyon after an Australian DRS review, with umpire Aleem Dar initially giving him not out.

BJ Watling attempted to stem the tide with a gritty 40 and enjoyed a bit of luck as Australia didn't review when he got a faint outside edge through to Paine.

Smith then dropped a tough chance off the bowling of Lyon at first slip.

He was given out on review caught down leg side by Paine off the bowling of Starc after umpire Nigel Llong had turned down the appeal -- a dismissal that signalled the end of the Kiwi resistance.

Earlier, Australia's second innings fell away dramatically after being 131 for one at one stage on the third day.

The home team lost seven wickets for 58 runs, as they struggled against a sustained barrage of short-pitched bowling on another hot Perth day.

Tim Southee again impressed with 5-69, after also picking up four wickets in the first innings.

Australia recorded one of their biggest wins over New Zealand on the fourth day of the first Test at Perth Stadium on Sunday. Having trailed by 250 runs on the first innings the Kiwis were set a mammoth 468 to win -- which would have been a record chase in Test cricket -- on a deteriorating pitch after Australia declared at 217 for nine in their second innings.

Australia recorded one of their biggest wins over New Zealand on the fourth day of the first Test at Perth Stadium on Sunday. Having trailed by 250 runs on the first innings the Kiwis were set a mammoth 468 to win -- which would have been a record chase in Test cricket -- on a deteriorating pitch after Australia declared at 217 for nine in their second innings. The visitors were never in contention after losing their first wicket with just six runs on the board and were unable to push the match into a fifth day after Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins cleaned up the Kiwi tail under lights in Perth's first ever day-night Test. New Zealand were dismissed for 171 and were beaten by 296 runs, the last five wickets falling in a hurry for just 17 runs. It was just one run shy of their biggest losing margin to Australia -- in runs -- in a match where both teams batted twice. Australia's biggest win, other than innings victories, was 297 runs in Auckland in 1974. Starc (4-45), who claimed nine wickets for the match, and Cummins (2-31) used the pink ball to good effect under lights to bring the match to a quick conclusion after none of the recognised Kiwi batsmen offered significant resistance. The chase started poorly, with opener Jeet Raval making just one before being caught at gully by Nathan Lyon (4-63) from the bowling of Starc. Star batsman and captain Kane Williamson then made just 14, before falling to Lyon's first ball of the innings. Williamson got off to a fast start with boundaries from the first two balls he faced, but was caught at short leg fending a ball that bounced and turned sharply off his glove into the hands of Matthew Wade. Ross Taylor was their last real hope of making a revival but on 22 he tried to pull a Starc delivery and got a bottom edge through to wicketkeeper Tim Paine to give the left-arm quick his seventh wicket of the match. Tom Latham showed plenty of application to face 68 balls for his 18, but was given out leg before wicket to Lyon after an Australian DRS review, with umpire Aleem Dar initially giving him not out. BJ Watling attempted to stem the tide with a gritty 40 and enjoyed a bit of luck as Australia didn't review when he got a faint outside edge through to Paine. Smith then dropped a tough chance off the bowling of Lyon at first slip. He was given out on review caught down leg side by Paine off the bowling of Starc after umpire Nigel Llong had turned down the appeal -- a dismissal that signalled the end of the Kiwi resistance. Earlier, Australia's second innings fell away dramatically after being 131 for one at one stage on the third day. The home team lost seven wickets for 58 runs, as they struggled against a sustained barrage of short-pitched bowling on another hot Perth day. Tim Southee again impressed with 5-69, after also picking up four wickets in the first innings.

Australia beat New Zealand by 296 runs to win first Test in Perth

New Zealand divers searched contaminated waters near the volcanic White Island on Saturday in an attempt to retrieve two remaining bodies, following a fatal eruption earlier this week, said police.

New Zealand divers searched contaminated waters near the volcanic White Island on Saturday in an attempt to retrieve two remaining bodies, following a fatal eruption earlier this week, said police. Waters around the island were contaminated by the massive eruption of rocks, lava and chemicals on Monday, reducing visibility. The death toll from the eruption stands at 14, but may rise with many victims in intensive care with severe burns. "Divers have reported seeing a number of dead fish and eels washed ashore and floating in the water," police said in a statement. "Each time they surface, the divers are decontaminated using fresh water." The remains of six people were successfully recovered on Friday after a military team in gas masks and hazmat suits landed on the uninhabited island and removed the bodies in a high-risk operation. Police said they could not retrieve the remains of two more people, but spotted at least one body in the waters not too far from the island shoreline. Nine police dive squad members resumed their search at 7.00 a.m. local time (1800 GMT Friday) and the operation would be boosted by a navy dive team later in the day. The police said in an earlier statement they will not return to the island for a land-based search on Saturday, but will return in the future. "Today's planning will allow us to return to the island to conduct further land-based searches for the remaining deceased, as the environment on and around the island allows," police said. "There will be no return to the island today." In a statement released on Saturday, geological agency GeoNet said there was a 35% to 50% risk of an eruption that would impact beyond the volcano’s vent area in the next 24 hours. A decrease from the 50% and 60% risk announced on Friday. The volcano, a popular tourist destination for day-trippers, erupted on Monday, spewing ash, steam and gases over the island. Among the 47 people on the island at the time were Australian, U.S., German, Chinese, British and Malaysian tourists. The death toll from the eruption is now at 14. More than two dozen people are in hospitals across New Zealand and Australia, most with severe burn injuries. There has been criticism that tourists were allowed on the island at all, given signs of increasing tremor activity in the days before the eruption. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced on Saturday that a minute’s silence will be observed at 2.11 p.m. local time (0111GMT) on December 16, exactly one week from when the fatal eruption occurred. “Wherever you are in New Zealand, or around the world, this is a moment we can stand alongside those who have lost loved ones in this extraordinary tragedy,” Ardern said in the statement.

New Zealand divers search contaminated waters for volcano victims

Australia and New Zealand Friday launched a joint bid to host the 2023 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/major-takeaways-from-story-packed-womens-world-cup-233968">Women's World Cup</a>, which officials said would help supercharge female&nbsp;sport&nbsp;in the region.

Governing body <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-bans-former-top-afghan-football-official-over-abuse-cover-up-255374">FIFA </a>plans to increase the number of teams to 32 for the tournament from 24 at this year's event in France, and a two-country format would be able to better cope with the extra fixtures, they said.

"Australia and New Zealand have a successful history of both staging and co-hosting major international sporting events," said Australian&nbsp;Sports&nbsp;Minister Richard Colbeck.

"We have the infrastructure, expertise and enthusiasm to co-host the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023."

He added that bringing the tournament to Australia "strongly aligns with the government's commitment to inspire more girls and women to participate in&nbsp;sport".

Eight nations have expressed interest in hosting the 2023 tournament, according to FIFA, with Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Japan, South Korea and South Africa also in the running.

New Zealand&nbsp;Sports&nbsp;Minister Grant Robertson said the joint bid, under the slogan "As One", was an opportunity for the two countries to showcase their commitment to women's&nbsp;sport.

"New Zealand and Australia are both countries that champion and celebrate women's&nbsp;sport, and it has been no surprise to see the football community, stadia, host cities and states across our two countries embrace this bid," he said.

"We know <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/six-bodies-retrieved-from-new-zealand-volcanic-island-as-survivors-face-long-recovery-268003">New Zealand</a> and Australia can work as a team to deliver something unique and world class, while also creating a legacy for women and for football in our countries and across Asia and Oceania."

A decision on the host is expected in May.&nbsp;

Australia and New Zealand Friday launched a joint bid to host the 2023 Women's World Cup, which officials said would help supercharge female sport in the region.

Australia and New Zealand Friday launched a joint bid to host the 2023 Women's World Cup, which officials said would help supercharge female sport in the region. Governing body FIFA plans to increase the number of teams to 32 for the tournament from 24 at this year's event in France, and a two-country format would be able to better cope with the extra fixtures, they said. "Australia and New Zealand have a successful history of both staging and co-hosting major international sporting events," said Australian Sports Minister Richard Colbeck. "We have the infrastructure, expertise and enthusiasm to co-host the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023." He added that bringing the tournament to Australia "strongly aligns with the government's commitment to inspire more girls and women to participate in sport". Eight nations have expressed interest in hosting the 2023 tournament, according to FIFA, with Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Japan, South Korea and South Africa also in the running. New Zealand Sports Minister Grant Robertson said the joint bid, under the slogan "As One", was an opportunity for the two countries to showcase their commitment to women's sport. "New Zealand and Australia are both countries that champion and celebrate women's sport, and it has been no surprise to see the football community, stadia, host cities and states across our two countries embrace this bid," he said. "We know New Zealand and Australia can work as a team to deliver something unique and world class, while also creating a legacy for women and for football in our countries and across Asia and Oceania." A decision on the host is expected in May.

Football: Australia, New Zealand join forces for 2023 Women's World Cup bid

A New Zealand military team has recovered around six bodies from the volcanic island that erupted earlier this week. An eight-member team will work to recover the remaining two bodies on White Island today.

New Zealand military team recovers bodies on White Island

A New Zealand&nbsp;military team recovered six bodies on Friday from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rescue-operation-hampered-in-volcano-hit-new-zealand-island-267755">volcanic island that fatally erupted</a> earlier this week, in a high risk operation watched by dozens of grieving family members waiting on the mainland.

An eight-person bomb disposal squad was helicoptered in and spent four hours on White Island, which experts have said still has a 50-60 per cent&nbsp;chance of another eruption in the coming hours.

Six of the eight bodies on the island were successfully retrieved and taken to a naval patrol vessel for transfer to the mainland for disaster victim identification, New Zealand police said.

The team was unable to recover the remaining two bodies as the cumbersome protective equipment they needed to wear slowed down the tricky operation.

"It has been an incredibly difficult operation but it has been such a priority," New Zealand <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sanna-marin-needs-no-advice-jacinda-ardern-to-worlds-youngest-leader-267606">Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern</a> told Australian Broadcasting Radio Corp on Friday morning. "We just want to bring loved ones home."

New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush said dive teams have been deployed in the waters around the island, which is also known by its Maori name of Whakaari, and another aerial search would be conducted later on Friday.

"It's not over yet," Bush told reporters in Whakatane, the mainland coastal town where about 100 family and local community members prayed and sang together as they watched helicopters fly to and from the island.

The volcano, a popular tourist destination for day-trippers, erupted on Monday, spewing ash, steam and gases over the island. Among the 47 people on the island at the time were Australian, US, German, Chinese, British and Malaysian tourists.

The official death toll stands at eight as the bodies on the island have been classified as missing until they are formally identified. More than two dozen more people are in hospitals across New Zealand and Australia, most with severe burn injuries.

A blessing was held at sea with the victims' families before the mission was launched.

Locals Boz Te Moana, 24 and Michael Mika, 28, came to support families gathered at the marae, a Maori community center in Whakatane on New Zealand's North Island, which lies some 50 km (30 miles) west of the island.

"Where we come from we don’t leave anyone behind, no one gets left behind," Te Moana said of his Maori community. "We all move as one."

Police had been confident of the location of six of the bodies as they had been viewed from the air but had cautioned there would be limited opportunity to search for the other two.

The recovery team of six men and two women wore hooded yellow hazmat suits with gas masks and kept in touch with an emergency standby team via radio.

"The environment that those staff encountered was unpredictable, challenging and those staff showed absolute courage in order to ensure that those six people were returned to their loved ones," Bush said.

Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said she had been advised the six bodies removed from the island were likely to those of Australian tourists.

Payne added that 11 injured Australians have now been transferred from overloaded burns units in New Zealand, with one more to be repatriated in the "coming days".

Australians made up the majority of the tourists visiting the island at the time of the explosion. Many of them were passengers on a Royal Caribbean Cruises&nbsp;ship on a day tour to the island.

Peter Haertsch, the doctor in charge of the burns unit caring for the returned Australians, said they been exposed to fast-moving clouds of very hot volcanic gas, pumice and ash.

"They have suffered severe contact skin burns with severe injuries due to inhalation of gas and ash, and we are looking at extensive and intensive care for these patients, some of whom are still in a life-threatening condition," Haertsch said in an emailed statement.

Payne said Australia was working with the United States and other countries to source some of the urgently needed 1.2 million square cms (186,000 square inches) of skin, an amount that far exceeds annual donations in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-volcano-toll-seen-at-16-police-plan-to-recover-bodies-on-friday-267835">New Zealand</a> and Australia.

"It's jarring for us to hear just the sheer scale of that need because it amplifies just how horrific some of the injuries are," Ardern told ABC Radio.

Authorities had faced growing pressure in recent days from families of some victims to recover the bodies as soon as possible.

There has also been criticism that tourists were allowed on the island at all, given the risks of an active volcano. Ardern has announced an inquiry into the tragedy, which will address such broader questions.

"It's a very unpredictable volcano," she told ABC radio on Friday. "Having said that, that's not sufficient in terms of explanation as to whether or not the right checks and balances were in place."

A New Zealand military team recovered six bodies on Friday from the volcanic island that fatally erupted earlier this week, in a high risk operation watched by dozens of grieving family members waiting on the mainland.

A New Zealand military team recovered six bodies on Friday from the volcanic island that fatally erupted earlier this week, in a high risk operation watched by dozens of grieving family members waiting on the mainland. An eight-person bomb disposal squad was helicoptered in and spent four hours on White Island, which experts have said still has a 50-60 per cent chance of another eruption in the coming hours. Six of the eight bodies on the island were successfully retrieved and taken to a naval patrol vessel for transfer to the mainland for disaster victim identification, New Zealand police said. The team was unable to recover the remaining two bodies as the cumbersome protective equipment they needed to wear slowed down the tricky operation. "It has been an incredibly difficult operation but it has been such a priority," New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told Australian Broadcasting Radio Corp on Friday morning. "We just want to bring loved ones home." New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush said dive teams have been deployed in the waters around the island, which is also known by its Maori name of Whakaari, and another aerial search would be conducted later on Friday. "It's not over yet," Bush told reporters in Whakatane, the mainland coastal town where about 100 family and local community members prayed and sang together as they watched helicopters fly to and from the island. The volcano, a popular tourist destination for day-trippers, erupted on Monday, spewing ash, steam and gases over the island. Among the 47 people on the island at the time were Australian, US, German, Chinese, British and Malaysian tourists. The official death toll stands at eight as the bodies on the island have been classified as missing until they are formally identified. More than two dozen more people are in hospitals across New Zealand and Australia, most with severe burn injuries. A blessing was held at sea with the victims' families before the mission was launched. Locals Boz Te Moana, 24 and Michael Mika, 28, came to support families gathered at the marae, a Maori community center in Whakatane on New Zealand's North Island, which lies some 50 km (30 miles) west of the island. "Where we come from we don’t leave anyone behind, no one gets left behind," Te Moana said of his Maori community. "We all move as one." Police had been confident of the location of six of the bodies as they had been viewed from the air but had cautioned there would be limited opportunity to search for the other two. The recovery team of six men and two women wore hooded yellow hazmat suits with gas masks and kept in touch with an emergency standby team via radio. "The environment that those staff encountered was unpredictable, challenging and those staff showed absolute courage in order to ensure that those six people were returned to their loved ones," Bush said. Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said she had been advised the six bodies removed from the island were likely to those of Australian tourists. Payne added that 11 injured Australians have now been transferred from overloaded burns units in New Zealand, with one more to be repatriated in the "coming days". Australians made up the majority of the tourists visiting the island at the time of the explosion. Many of them were passengers on a Royal Caribbean Cruises ship on a day tour to the island. Peter Haertsch, the doctor in charge of the burns unit caring for the returned Australians, said they been exposed to fast-moving clouds of very hot volcanic gas, pumice and ash. "They have suffered severe contact skin burns with severe injuries due to inhalation of gas and ash, and we are looking at extensive and intensive care for these patients, some of whom are still in a life-threatening condition," Haertsch said in an emailed statement. Payne said Australia was working with the United States and other countries to source some of the urgently needed 1.2 million square cms (186,000 square inches) of skin, an amount that far exceeds annual donations in New Zealand and Australia. "It's jarring for us to hear just the sheer scale of that need because it amplifies just how horrific some of the injuries are," Ardern told ABC Radio. Authorities had faced growing pressure in recent days from families of some victims to recover the bodies as soon as possible. There has also been criticism that tourists were allowed on the island at all, given the risks of an active volcano. Ardern has announced an inquiry into the tragedy, which will address such broader questions. "It's a very unpredictable volcano," she told ABC radio on Friday. "Having said that, that's not sufficient in terms of explanation as to whether or not the right checks and balances were in place."

Six bodies retrieved from New Zealand volcanic island as survivors face long recovery

Police in New Zealand are planning a mission to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rescue-operation-hampered-in-volcano-hit-new-zealand-island-267755">volcanic White Island </a>on Friday to retrieve bodies of people killed in this week's eruption, while the known death toll from the disaster climbed to eight, with two people dying in hospital.

Eight more people are missing and presumed dead, buried under ash and debris from Monday's eruption. More than 20 people are in hospital, many with severe burns, while seven others have been transferred to burns units in Australia.

Watch the video here:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/your-story-8-missing-people-presumed-dead-in-new-zealand-267525/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">"I can now confirm that we are finalising a plan to recover the bodies from Whakaari/ White Island tomorrow morning," police Deputy Commissioner John</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Tims said in a statement on Thursday, adding families will be briefed on the operation.</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

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Our hearts go out to those caught up in the Whakaari/White Island volcano tragedy. Today we activated a repatriation plan to bring a number of the Australians injured home for specialist medical care ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/FJbEmM5kTT">pic.twitter.com/FJbEmM5kTT</a>
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP/status/1204659882395201536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Another police officer, Deputy Commissioner Mike Clement, later told a news conference the mission was risky and that a team would deploy at first light on Friday.

Six bodies could be seen and there would be "very limited" opportunity to search for the other two, he said.

"A lot has to go right for this to work," Clement said.

The volcano on White Island was "highly volatile" and could erupt again within days, said authorities.

There are no signs of life on the uninhabited island.

"We are now living with a growing sense of desperation to bring home those that we know are there and those we love," said Judy Turner, the mayor of Whakatane, the nearest town on the mainland. "The frustration of those families most affected is completely understandable. No news is not good news for people in this situation."

The volcano, a popular tourist destination for day-trips, erupted on Monday, spewing ash and steam over the island.

There were 47 people on the island, also known by its Maori name Whakaari, at the time of the eruption. Twenty-four of those were from Australia, nine from the United States, five from New Zealand, four from Germany, two each from China and Britain and one from Malaysia.

Graham Leonard, a senior scientist at New Zealand's geological science agency GNS Science, said monitoring equipment still active on the island put the risk of a further eruption over the next 24 hours at 50% to 60%, up from 40% to 60% on Wednesday.

"Today is less safe than yesterday and the day before," he said.

In the event of another eruption, anybody on the island could be "pummelled to death" by flying rocks or overcome by ash and gases in temperatures exceeding hundreds of degrees Celsius, said GNS Science volcanologist Nico Fournier.

Clement said earlier the risk of both another eruption and toxic gases were simply too great on Thursday to expose recovery teams, although the situation was being constantly reviewed.

Burn injuries

Many of the injured are being treated for severe burns, and medical officials are importing some 1.2 million square cm (186,000 square inches) of skin. The amount of skin needed equates to about 60 donors. In New Zealand, only five to 10 people donate skin each year, the New Zealand Herald reported.

Teams of surgeons in several burns units around the country were working around the clock.

"What we faced on Monday was beyond comprehension," Dr Heike Hundemer, clinical leader at Whakatane hospital, said at a media conference on Wednesday.

"I've worked in major centres in Germany as well as in New Zealand. I've never seen this number of critically injured patients coming into an emergency department in a short space of time," said Hundemer.

"We used every single bedspace, every single resource we had to care for those people. Those patients we treated and comforted will forever stay in our minds."

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said 12 Australians would be taken back home for treatment. One citizen would remain in a New Zealand hospital.

Morrison said 11 Australians had died, a figure that is believed to be drawn from the 16 people officially listed dead and missing by New Zealand. Further, he said two permanent residents of Australia had died, one was missing and a fourth was hospitalised.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said there will be an inquiry into the tragedy, which will also look more broadly at issues including access to volcanic sites across New Zealand.

Daily tours bring more than 10,000 visitors to privately owned White Island every year, marketed as "the world's most accessible active marine volcano".

Royal Caribbean cruise lines has said that passengers from its ship 'Ovation of the Seas' were on the island at the time. It said it grieved "this tragic loss" and would continue to offer support and services to affected families.

The 'Ovation of the Seas' docked in Wellington on Thursday.

Police in New Zealand are planning a mission to volcanic White Island on Friday to retrieve bodies of people killed in this week's eruption, while the known death toll from the disaster climbed to eight, with two people dying in hospital.

Police in New Zealand are planning a mission to volcanic White Island on Friday to retrieve bodies of people killed in this week's eruption, while the known death toll from the disaster climbed to eight, with two people dying in hospital. Eight more people are missing and presumed dead, buried under ash and debris from Monday's eruption. More than 20 people are in hospital, many with severe burns, while seven others have been transferred to burns units in Australia. Watch the video here: "I can now confirm that we are finalising a plan to recover the bodies from Whakaari/ White Island tomorrow morning," police Deputy Commissioner John Tims said in a statement on Thursday, adding families will be briefed on the operation. Our hearts go out to those caught up in the Whakaari/White Island volcano tragedy. Today we activated a repatriation plan to bring a number of the Australians injured home for specialist medical care ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/FJbEmM5kTT — Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) December 11, 2019 × Another police officer, Deputy Commissioner Mike Clement, later told a news conference the mission was risky and that a team would deploy at first light on Friday. Six bodies could be seen and there would be "very limited" opportunity to search for the other two, he said. "A lot has to go right for this to work," Clement said. The volcano on White Island was "highly volatile" and could erupt again within days, said authorities. There are no signs of life on the uninhabited island. "We are now living with a growing sense of desperation to bring home those that we know are there and those we love," said Judy Turner, the mayor of Whakatane, the nearest town on the mainland. "The frustration of those families most affected is completely understandable. No news is not good news for people in this situation." The volcano, a popular tourist destination for day-trips, erupted on Monday, spewing ash and steam over the island. There were 47 people on the island, also known by its Maori name Whakaari, at the time of the eruption. Twenty-four of those were from Australia, nine from the United States, five from New Zealand, four from Germany, two each from China and Britain and one from Malaysia. Graham Leonard, a senior scientist at New Zealand's geological science agency GNS Science, said monitoring equipment still active on the island put the risk of a further eruption over the next 24 hours at 50% to 60%, up from 40% to 60% on Wednesday. "Today is less safe than yesterday and the day before," he said. In the event of another eruption, anybody on the island could be "pummelled to death" by flying rocks or overcome by ash and gases in temperatures exceeding hundreds of degrees Celsius, said GNS Science volcanologist Nico Fournier. Clement said earlier the risk of both another eruption and toxic gases were simply too great on Thursday to expose recovery teams, although the situation was being constantly reviewed. Burn injuries Many of the injured are being treated for severe burns, and medical officials are importing some 1.2 million square cm (186,000 square inches) of skin. The amount of skin needed equates to about 60 donors. In New Zealand, only five to 10 people donate skin each year, the New Zealand Herald reported. Teams of surgeons in several burns units around the country were working around the clock. "What we faced on Monday was beyond comprehension," Dr Heike Hundemer, clinical leader at Whakatane hospital, said at a media conference on Wednesday. "I've worked in major centres in Germany as well as in New Zealand. I've never seen this number of critically injured patients coming into an emergency department in a short space of time," said Hundemer. "We used every single bedspace, every single resource we had to care for those people. Those patients we treated and comforted will forever stay in our minds." Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said 12 Australians would be taken back home for treatment. One citizen would remain in a New Zealand hospital. Morrison said 11 Australians had died, a figure that is believed to be drawn from the 16 people officially listed dead and missing by New Zealand. Further, he said two permanent residents of Australia had died, one was missing and a fourth was hospitalised. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said there will be an inquiry into the tragedy, which will also look more broadly at issues including access to volcanic sites across New Zealand. Daily tours bring more than 10,000 visitors to privately owned White Island every year, marketed as "the world's most accessible active marine volcano". Royal Caribbean cruise lines has said that passengers from its ship 'Ovation of the Seas' were on the island at the time. It said it grieved "this tragic loss" and would continue to offer support and services to affected families. The 'Ovation of the Seas' docked in Wellington on Thursday.

New Zealand volcano toll seen at 16; police plan to recover bodies on Friday

New Zealand's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/slvsnz-trent-boult-tim-southee-rattle-sri-lanka-in-rain-hit-test-245147">Trent Boult</a> remains a doubt for the first Test against Australia due to a side injury but captain Kane Williamson says he will give the pace spearhead every chance to prove his fitness before the match begins in Perth on Thursday.

The tourists are sweating on the fitness of their ace quick with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-open-to-pink-ball-test-in-australia-with-proper-planning-264249">pink ball</a> used in the inaugural day-nighter at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-class-perth-stadium-gets-icc-green-light-29196https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-class-perth-stadium-gets-icc-green-light-29196">Perth Stadium</a> set to suit Boult’s penchant for swing.

Williamson said the team’s training session late on Wednesday would likely determine the availability of Boult, who had managed to get through training on Tuesday.

"We’re going to have another look at (Boult) today before deciding anything tomorrow,” he told reporters on Wednesday.

“I think you look at it as a long-term decision in terms of this whole series. He has tracked really nicely and felt really good yesterday.”

Williamson was more confident in the injury status of veteran batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ross-taylor-fit-to-play-in-first-test-against-england-kane-williamson-36590">Ross Taylor</a> (thumb) and all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/de-grandhomme-seals-black-caps-win-over-pakistan-29742">Colin de Grandhomme</a> (abdominal muscle).

“Ross is fine, just a bit of a knock but nothing major. Colin is tracking nicely,” he said.

Uncapped fast bowler Lockie Ferguson could make his test debut on an expected fast, bouncy Perth pitch, which is expected to deteriorate with fierce heat forecast for most of the match.

“It’s exciting we’ve got Lockie in our squad to consider him,” Williamson said. “It’s exciting to have a guy in our camp who can bowl at that speed.”

Both teams are to wear black armbands as a tribute to the victims of New Zealand’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/100-people-near-new-zealand-volcano-when-it-erupted-pm-jacinda-ardern-267054">White Island volcano</a> eruption and Williamson said the news had been a shock.

"It’s very hard to comprehend. When a tragedy like this happens it’s such a shock,” he added.

New Zealand's Trent Boult remains a doubt for the first Test against Australia due to a side injury but captain Kane Williamson says he will give the pace spearhead every chance to prove his fitness before the match begins in Perth on Thursday.

New Zealand's Trent Boult remains a doubt for the first Test against Australia due to a side injury but captain Kane Williamson says he will give the pace spearhead every chance to prove his fitness before the match begins in Perth on Thursday. The tourists are sweating on the fitness of their ace quick with the pink ball used in the inaugural day-nighter at Perth Stadium set to suit Boult’s penchant for swing. Williamson said the team’s training session late on Wednesday would likely determine the availability of Boult, who had managed to get through training on Tuesday. "We’re going to have another look at (Boult) today before deciding anything tomorrow,” he told reporters on Wednesday. “I think you look at it as a long-term decision in terms of this whole series. He has tracked really nicely and felt really good yesterday.” Williamson was more confident in the injury status of veteran batsman Ross Taylor (thumb) and all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme (abdominal muscle). “Ross is fine, just a bit of a knock but nothing major. Colin is tracking nicely,” he said. Uncapped fast bowler Lockie Ferguson could make his test debut on an expected fast, bouncy Perth pitch, which is expected to deteriorate with fierce heat forecast for most of the match. “It’s exciting we’ve got Lockie in our squad to consider him,” Williamson said. “It’s exciting to have a guy in our camp who can bowl at that speed.” Both teams are to wear black armbands as a tribute to the victims of New Zealand’s White Island volcano eruption and Williamson said the news had been a shock. "It’s very hard to comprehend. When a tragedy like this happens it’s such a shock,” he added.

Cricket: New Zealand spearhead Boult a doubt for first Test

Eight people were missing and presumed dead on Tuesday (December 10) after a volcanic eruption covered a small New Zealand island popular with tourists in hot ash and steam, killing five people and seriously injuring about 30 more.

Your Story: 8 missing people presumed dead in New Zealand

Thirteen people have been killed and eight people are missing and presumed dead after volcanic eruption covered a small New Zealand island popular with tourists in hot ash and steam.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/white-island-volcano-unexpectedly-erupts-in-new-zealand-267230">In pictures: When White Island volcano unexpectedly erupted in New Zealand</a>

Rescuers have been unable to access the island, which is covered in grey ash.

Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/volcano-erupts-in-new-zealand-267292/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The volcano vent continues to emit steam and New Zealand's geoscience agency has warned on another eruption in the coming 24 hours, with 50-50 chances.

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has expressed "unfathomable grief" after the volcanic eruption have claimed 13 lives.

Ardern confirmed five fatalities and said another eight people were still missing after Monday's tragedy at White Island.

There was little hope of finding the missing alive, after overnight aerial reconnaissance flights found no signs of life.

"The focus this morning is on recovery and ensuring police can do that safely," she told a press conference.

Among those on the island during the cataclysm were tourists from Australia, the United States, Britain, China and Malaysia, as well as their New Zealand guides.

"To those who have lost or are missing family and friends, we share in your unfathomable grief and your sorrow," Ardern said.

"Your loved ones stood alongside Kiwis who were hosting you here and we grieve with you."

Ardern singled out "our Australian family" for sympathy, while her Australian counterpart Scott Morrison warned his compatriots to brace for "a very hard day".

Morrison said there were fears that three of the five dead were Australian, and another eight citizens were unaccounted for. 
He described the tragedy as a "time of great innocence and joy interrupted by the horror of that eruption".

"This is a very, very hard day for a lot of Australian families whose loved ones have been caught up in this terrible, tragedy," he told reporters in Sydney.

A total of 31 people — including 13 Australians — were in hospital with various injuries, some listed as critical with serious burns.

White Island Tours, a trip operator, confirmed that two of its guides were unaccounted for, while Britain's high commissioner in Wellington said two female citizens were hospitalised.

Concerns about further eruptions, poisonous gases and choking ash stalled efforts to recover bodies.

"We will only go to the island when it is safe to do so for our people," police spokesman Bruce Bird said.

He said a helicopter scoured the area for 45 minutes, checking if anyone was still alive -- without success.

(With inputs from AFP)

Thirteen people have been killed and eight people are missing and presumed dead after volcanic eruption covered a small New Zealand island popular with tourists in hot ash and steam.

Thirteen people have been killed and eight people are missing and presumed dead after volcanic eruption covered a small New Zealand island popular with tourists in hot ash and steam. In pictures: When White Island volcano unexpectedly erupted in New Zealand Rescuers have been unable to access the island, which is covered in grey ash. Watch: The volcano vent continues to emit steam and New Zealand's geoscience agency has warned on another eruption in the coming 24 hours, with 50-50 chances. New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has expressed "unfathomable grief" after the volcanic eruption have claimed 13 lives. Ardern confirmed five fatalities and said another eight people were still missing after Monday's tragedy at White Island. There was little hope of finding the missing alive, after overnight aerial reconnaissance flights found no signs of life. "The focus this morning is on recovery and ensuring police can do that safely," she told a press conference. Among those on the island during the cataclysm were tourists from Australia, the United States, Britain, China and Malaysia, as well as their New Zealand guides. "To those who have lost or are missing family and friends, we share in your unfathomable grief and your sorrow," Ardern said. "Your loved ones stood alongside Kiwis who were hosting you here and we grieve with you." Ardern singled out "our Australian family" for sympathy, while her Australian counterpart Scott Morrison warned his compatriots to brace for "a very hard day". Morrison said there were fears that three of the five dead were Australian, and another eight citizens were unaccounted for. He described the tragedy as a "time of great innocence and joy interrupted by the horror of that eruption". "This is a very, very hard day for a lot of Australian families whose loved ones have been caught up in this terrible, tragedy," he told reporters in Sydney. A total of 31 people — including 13 Australians — were in hospital with various injuries, some listed as critical with serious burns. White Island Tours, a trip operator, confirmed that two of its guides were unaccounted for, while Britain's high commissioner in Wellington said two female citizens were hospitalised. Concerns about further eruptions, poisonous gases and choking ash stalled efforts to recover bodies. "We will only go to the island when it is safe to do so for our people," police spokesman Bruce Bird said. He said a helicopter scoured the area for 45 minutes, checking if anyone was still alive -- without success. (With inputs from AFP)

New Zealand volcano eruption: Thirteen dead and eight missing

By Shane Cronin

Five people have been confirmed dead, 31 remain in hospital with injuries and eight are still missing after sudden volcanic eruptions on Whakaari/White Island off the east coast of New Zealand.

The island is a tourist destination and 47 people were on it when it erupted on Monday afternoon. Three of those rescued have now been discharged from hospital.

Volcanologists at GeoNet, which operates a geological hazard monitoring system, described the eruption as impulsive and short-lived, with an ash plume that rose to more than three kilometres above the vent.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern this morning praised the courage of the first responders and pilots who conducted an aerial survey. She confirmed that the flyovers have shown no signs of life. Police are today assessing whether it is safe to return to the island for a recovery operation.

Volcanic Hazards 
 
White Island is one of several volcanoes in New Zealand that can produce sudden explosive eruptions at any time. In this case, magma is shallow, and the heat and gases affect surface and ground water to form vigorous hydrothermal systems.

In these, water is trapped in pores of rocks in a super-heated state. Any external process, such as an earthquake, gas input from below, or even a change in the lake water level can tip this delicate balance and release the pressure on the hot and trapped water.

The resulting steam-driven eruption, also called a hydrothermal or phreatic eruption, can happen suddenly and with little to no warning. The expansion of water into steam is supersonic in speed and the liquid can expand to 1,700 times its original volume. This produces catastrophic impacts.

The expansion energy is enough to shatter solid rock, excavate craters and eject rock fragments and ash out to hundreds of metres away from the vent. We know of sites in New Zealand where material has been blasted out over three kilometres from the vent by such eruptions.

Potential for Further Eruptions

The hazards expected from steam-driven eruptions are violent ejections of hot blocks and ash, and the formation of “hurricane-like” currents of wet ash and coarse particles that radiate from the explosion vent. These can be deadly in terms of impact trauma, burns and respiratory injuries.

The eruptions are short-lived, but once one happens, there is a high chance for further, generally smaller ones as the system re-equilibrates. White Island is an acute location for such activity, but it is not the only location in New Zealand where this can happen.

Mount Ruapehu (crater lake), Mount Tongariro (Te Maari and Ketetahi) and geothermal areas of the central North Island all have the potential to cause such events. We know there have been more than 60 hydrothermal eruptions in the last 100 years in New Zealand. Some of these have caused loss of life.

No Warning

Monitoring and warning for hydrothermal eruptions is a huge challenge. We don’t normally see these eruptions coming, no matter how much we would like to. Many systems are already “primed” for such events, but the triggers are poorly understood.

The warning periods, once an event gets underway, are likely in the order of seconds to minutes. Our only hope for anticipating these events is to track potential vapour and liquid pressure in hydrothermal systems and to learn from their long-term behaviour when they are at a super-critical state. Unfortunately, there are no simple rules that can be followed and each hydrothermal system is different.

In this age of technology and instrumental monitoring, it seems irrational that there should be little or no warning for such eruptions. The eruption is not caused by magma, but by steam, and this is much harder to track in our current monitoring systems.

We have seen several other fatal hydrothermal catastrophies unfold in other parts of the world, such as the 2014 eruption of Mount Ontake in Japan. New Zealand has been luckier than many other parts of the world, until now.

 
(Shane Cronin is Professor of Earth Sciences, University of Auckland)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-white-island-erupted-and-why-there-was-no-warning-128550">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

By Shane Cronin Five people have been confirmed dead, 31 remain in hospital with injuries and eight are still missing after sudden volcanic eruptions on Whakaari/White Island off the east coast of New Zealand.

By Shane Cronin Five people have been confirmed dead, 31 remain in hospital with injuries and eight are still missing after sudden volcanic eruptions on Whakaari/White Island off the east coast of New Zealand. The island is a tourist destination and 47 people were on it when it erupted on Monday afternoon. Three of those rescued have now been discharged from hospital. Volcanologists at GeoNet, which operates a geological hazard monitoring system, described the eruption as impulsive and short-lived, with an ash plume that rose to more than three kilometres above the vent. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern this morning praised the courage of the first responders and pilots who conducted an aerial survey. She confirmed that the flyovers have shown no signs of life. Police are today assessing whether it is safe to return to the island for a recovery operation. Volcanic Hazards White Island is one of several volcanoes in New Zealand that can produce sudden explosive eruptions at any time. In this case, magma is shallow, and the heat and gases affect surface and ground water to form vigorous hydrothermal systems. In these, water is trapped in pores of rocks in a super-heated state. Any external process, such as an earthquake, gas input from below, or even a change in the lake water level can tip this delicate balance and release the pressure on the hot and trapped water. The resulting steam-driven eruption, also called a hydrothermal or phreatic eruption, can happen suddenly and with little to no warning. The expansion of water into steam is supersonic in speed and the liquid can expand to 1,700 times its original volume. This produces catastrophic impacts. The expansion energy is enough to shatter solid rock, excavate craters and eject rock fragments and ash out to hundreds of metres away from the vent. We know of sites in New Zealand where material has been blasted out over three kilometres from the vent by such eruptions. Potential for Further Eruptions The hazards expected from steam-driven eruptions are violent ejections of hot blocks and ash, and the formation of “hurricane-like” currents of wet ash and coarse particles that radiate from the explosion vent. These can be deadly in terms of impact trauma, burns and respiratory injuries. The eruptions are short-lived, but once one happens, there is a high chance for further, generally smaller ones as the system re-equilibrates. White Island is an acute location for such activity, but it is not the only location in New Zealand where this can happen. Mount Ruapehu (crater lake), Mount Tongariro (Te Maari and Ketetahi) and geothermal areas of the central North Island all have the potential to cause such events. We know there have been more than 60 hydrothermal eruptions in the last 100 years in New Zealand. Some of these have caused loss of life. No Warning Monitoring and warning for hydrothermal eruptions is a huge challenge. We don’t normally see these eruptions coming, no matter how much we would like to. Many systems are already “primed” for such events, but the triggers are poorly understood. The warning periods, once an event gets underway, are likely in the order of seconds to minutes. Our only hope for anticipating these events is to track potential vapour and liquid pressure in hydrothermal systems and to learn from their long-term behaviour when they are at a super-critical state. Unfortunately, there are no simple rules that can be followed and each hydrothermal system is different. In this age of technology and instrumental monitoring, it seems irrational that there should be little or no warning for such eruptions. The eruption is not caused by magma, but by steam, and this is much harder to track in our current monitoring systems. We have seen several other fatal hydrothermal catastrophies unfold in other parts of the world, such as the 2014 eruption of Mount Ontake in Japan. New Zealand has been luckier than many other parts of the world, until now. (Shane Cronin is Professor of Earth Sciences, University of Auckland) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Why White Island erupted and why there was no warning

Most destructive volcanic flare-ups in the last 25 years

When White Island volcano unexpectedly erupted in New Zealand

At least five people were killed, up to 20 injured and several were reported missing after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-volcano-eruption-one-dead-more-fatalities-feared-267098">a volcano suddenly erupted</a> off the east coast of New Zealand's North Island on Monday, spewing a plume of ash thousands of feet into the air.

More casualties were feared on White Island, where the volcano erupted at about 2:11 pm, police said.

Twenty-three people, some of them believed to be tourists from the Ovation of the Seas cruise ship, were rescued, police said, adding that others were still on the island.

About 50 people were feared to have been nearby and several were seen near the rim of the crater minutes before the eruption.

St&nbsp;John Ambulance said up to 20 people were believed to have been injured in the eruption, adding that a mobile triage unit was on its way. The organisation said it had sent seven helicopters to the island with medics on board.

Michael Schade, an engineering manager from San Francisco, was one of the tourists who made it off the island just before the eruption.

In a video Schade posted on Twitter as he sped away from the island by boat, a huge plume of white ash soars into the sky as a group of frightened tourists huddles close to the shore.

"This is so hard to believe," Schade said. "Our whole tour group were literally standing at the edge of the main crater not 30 minutes before."

A crater rim camera owned and operated by New Zealand science agency GeoNet shows groups of people walking toward and away from the rim inside the crater, from which white vapour constantly billows, in the hour leading up to the eruption.

At 2:00 pm&nbsp;the crater rim camera catches a group of people - tiny specks in relation to the vast volcano - right at the edge of the rim. At 2:10 pm,&nbsp;just a minute before the eruption - the group is headed away from the rim, following a well-worn track across the crater.

White Island is about 50 km&nbsp;from the east coast of North Island and huge plumes were visible from the mainland. Volcanologists said the ash plume shot 12,000 feet&nbsp;into the air.

"We know that there were a number of tourists on or around the island at the time, both New Zealanders and visitors from overseas," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told a news conference.

"I know there will be a huge amount of concern and anxiety for those who had loved ones on or around the island at the time. I can assure them that police are doing everything they can."

On Twitter, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Australians had been affected by the eruption and the government was trying to learn more. Twenty-four Australians were on White Island when the volcano erupted, Australian media said.

Kevin O'Sullivan, chief executive of the New Zealand Cruise Association, said: "We believe there is a tour party from Ovation of the Seas involved in the White Island eruption. We have no further details at the moment."

Ovation of the Seas is a 16-deck cruise ship owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises. It can take nearly 5,000 passengers and has a crew of about 1,500. It is docked at Tauranga, on the North Island, on a cruise that began in Sydney on Dec 3.

"We can confirm that a number of our guests were touring the island today," a company representative said in an emailed statement. "We do not have any additional details to share at this time."

No-fly zone

There seemed to be no danger for people in coastal areas farther away, authorities said.

The eruption was unexpected, but not unusual, an expert said.

"Sudden, unheralded eruptions from volcanoes such as White Island can be expected at any time," Shane Cronin, a volcanologist at University of Auckland, said in comments published by the Australia Science Media Centre.

"We know hydrothermal and so-called <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/100-people-near-new-zealand-volcano-when-it-erupted-pm-jacinda-ardern-267054">'phreatic' eruptions can occur suddenly</a> and with little or no warning because they are driven by the expansion of super-heated water into steam," he added.

Geological hazard tracker GeoNet raised the alert level for the White Island volcano in November due to an increase in volcanic activity.

Just last week, GeoNet volcanologist Brad Scott said in a report that moderate volcanic unrest continued at White Island, with substantial gas, steam and mud bursts observed at the vent located at the back of the crater lake.

The island's immediate surroundings were hazardous because of the eruption, the National Emergency Management Agency said in an statement, adding that falling ash might affect some areas.

The "short-lived eruption" showed no signs of escalating, New Zealand's geoscience agency GNS Science said in a statement.

The White Island volcano is one of New Zealand's most active.

The White Island volcano's last fatal eruption was in 1914, when it killed 12 sulphur miners. There was a short-lived eruption in April 2016.

White Island became a private scenic reserve in 1953, and daily tours allow more than 10,000 people to visit the volcano every year.

'Whakaari', as it is known in Maori, is New Zealand’s most active cone volcano, built up by continuous volcanic activity over the past 150,000 years, according to geological hazard tracking agency GeoNet.

About 70 percent is under the sea, making the massive volcanic structure the largest in New Zealand.

At least five people were killed, up to 20 injured and several were reported missing after a volcano suddenly erupted off the east coast of New Zealand's North Island on Monday, spewing a plume of ash thousands of feet into the air.

At least five people were killed, up to 20 injured and several were reported missing after a volcano suddenly erupted off the east coast of New Zealand's North Island on Monday, spewing a plume of ash thousands of feet into the air. More casualties were feared on White Island, where the volcano erupted at about 2:11 pm, police said. Twenty-three people, some of them believed to be tourists from the Ovation of the Seas cruise ship, were rescued, police said, adding that others were still on the island. About 50 people were feared to have been nearby and several were seen near the rim of the crater minutes before the eruption. St John Ambulance said up to 20 people were believed to have been injured in the eruption, adding that a mobile triage unit was on its way. The organisation said it had sent seven helicopters to the island with medics on board. Michael Schade, an engineering manager from San Francisco, was one of the tourists who made it off the island just before the eruption. In a video Schade posted on Twitter as he sped away from the island by boat, a huge plume of white ash soars into the sky as a group of frightened tourists huddles close to the shore. "This is so hard to believe," Schade said. "Our whole tour group were literally standing at the edge of the main crater not 30 minutes before." A crater rim camera owned and operated by New Zealand science agency GeoNet shows groups of people walking toward and away from the rim inside the crater, from which white vapour constantly billows, in the hour leading up to the eruption. At 2:00 pm the crater rim camera catches a group of people - tiny specks in relation to the vast volcano - right at the edge of the rim. At 2:10 pm, just a minute before the eruption - the group is headed away from the rim, following a well-worn track across the crater. White Island is about 50 km from the east coast of North Island and huge plumes were visible from the mainland. Volcanologists said the ash plume shot 12,000 feet into the air. "We know that there were a number of tourists on or around the island at the time, both New Zealanders and visitors from overseas," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told a news conference. "I know there will be a huge amount of concern and anxiety for those who had loved ones on or around the island at the time. I can assure them that police are doing everything they can." On Twitter, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Australians had been affected by the eruption and the government was trying to learn more. Twenty-four Australians were on White Island when the volcano erupted, Australian media said. Kevin O'Sullivan, chief executive of the New Zealand Cruise Association, said: "We believe there is a tour party from Ovation of the Seas involved in the White Island eruption. We have no further details at the moment." Ovation of the Seas is a 16-deck cruise ship owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises. It can take nearly 5,000 passengers and has a crew of about 1,500. It is docked at Tauranga, on the North Island, on a cruise that began in Sydney on Dec 3. "We can confirm that a number of our guests were touring the island today," a company representative said in an emailed statement. "We do not have any additional details to share at this time." No-fly zone There seemed to be no danger for people in coastal areas farther away, authorities said. The eruption was unexpected, but not unusual, an expert said. "Sudden, unheralded eruptions from volcanoes such as White Island can be expected at any time," Shane Cronin, a volcanologist at University of Auckland, said in comments published by the Australia Science Media Centre. "We know hydrothermal and so-called 'phreatic' eruptions can occur suddenly and with little or no warning because they are driven by the expansion of super-heated water into steam," he added. Geological hazard tracker GeoNet raised the alert level for the White Island volcano in November due to an increase in volcanic activity. Just last week, GeoNet volcanologist Brad Scott said in a report that moderate volcanic unrest continued at White Island, with substantial gas, steam and mud bursts observed at the vent located at the back of the crater lake. The island's immediate surroundings were hazardous because of the eruption, the National Emergency Management Agency said in an statement, adding that falling ash might affect some areas. The "short-lived eruption" showed no signs of escalating, New Zealand's geoscience agency GNS Science said in a statement. The White Island volcano is one of New Zealand's most active. The White Island volcano's last fatal eruption was in 1914, when it killed 12 sulphur miners. There was a short-lived eruption in April 2016. White Island became a private scenic reserve in 1953, and daily tours allow more than 10,000 people to visit the volcano every year. 'Whakaari', as it is known in Maori, is New Zealand’s most active cone volcano, built up by continuous volcanic activity over the past 150,000 years, according to geological hazard tracking agency GeoNet. About 70 percent is under the sea, making the massive volcanic structure the largest in New Zealand.

New Zealand: Volcano eruption kills five, several missing

The New Zealand cricket team have secured another test series victory after the second Test was called off as a draw.

Williamson and Taylor had registered their centuries and safely guided their team to a draw to claim the series 1-0 against England after their victory in Mount Maunganui.

New Zealand won the first Test by an innings and 65 runs.

The weather turned sour soon after lunch on the fifth day when New Zealand, having taken advantage of some sloppy fielding, were 241 for two in their second innings, 140 ahead with Taylor on 105 and Williamson on 104.

With the weather denying England a second turn at bat, it ensured New Zealand's series win after their innings victory in the first Test, and improved their record to eight wins, a draw and one loss (to South Africa) in their past 10 series.

Williamson brought up his 21st Test century with a four off Joe Root in the third over after lunch, while Taylor reached century number 19 with a flourish in Root's next over when he smacked a four and two sixes in consecutive balls.&nbsp;

Two balls after Taylor had raised his bat and poked his tongue out in his signature celebration, the rain arrived to wash out England's faint hope of forcing a result although that chance had already been damaged by dropped catches.&nbsp;

New Zealand resumed the day at 96 for two with England hunting early wickets but their plans went off track when Ollie Pope and Joe Denly spilled simple chances from Williamson.&nbsp;

The New Zealand skipper was on 39 when wicketkeeper Pope put down a regulation offering off the gloves, much to bowler Ben Stokes annoyance, and on 62 Denly inexplicably dropped an even easier chance.&nbsp;

Williamson gently chipped a slower delivery from Jofra Archer straight to Denly at short midwicket and, as the bowler leapt in celebration and Williamson made an apologetic gesture to Taylor, the ball popped out of Denly's hands.&nbsp;

It drew instant comparisons on social media to the widely regarded worst dropped catch in Test history when England's Mike Gatting put down a sitter off the gloves of India batsman Kiran More in 1993.&nbsp;

Williamson had another life when he should have been run out on 97 but Sam Curran's shy at the stumps was so far off line that the batsmen picked up an extra run.

Even without the rain, Joe Root's chances of pulling off victory seemed very remote as the England bowlers toiled with an ageing ball on an unresponsive wicket.

The one positive for the England captain was his return to form with a double century and man-of-the-match award after a year of averaging below 30 to give him confidence heading into a four-Test tour of South Africa.

New Zealand, meanwhile, head to Australia on Saturday for a three-Test series with the 1-0 win over England cementing their number two world ranking behind India.

The completed scoreboard in the second Test between New Zealand and England in Hamilton on Tuesday:

New Zealand 1st innings 375 (T. Latham 105, D. Mitchell 73, B. Watling 55, R. Taylor 53; Broad 4-73, Woakes 3-83)

England 1st innings 476 (J. Root 226, R. Burns 101, O. Pope 75; Wagner 5-124)

New Zealand 2nd innings (overnight 96-2) 
T. Latham c Root b Woakes 18 
J. Raval lbw b Curran 0 
K. Williamson not out 104 
R. Taylor not out 105 
Extras (b2, lb3, w3, nb1, pen5) 14 
Total (for two wkts, 75 overs) 241 
Fall of wickets: 1-2 (Raval), 2-28 (Latham)

Bowling: Broad 9-0-28-0, Curran 16-2-56-1 (2w), Archer 12-1-27-0, Woakes 11-4-12-1, Stokes 14-1-58-0 (1w, 1nb), Denly 9-1-27-0, Root 4-1-23-0

Toss: England 
Result: Match drawn 
Series: New Zealand win 1-0 
Umpires: Kumar Dharmasena (SRI), Paul Wilson (AUS) 
TV Umpire: Bruce Oxenford (AUS) 
Match Referee: Javagal Srinath (IND)

(With inputs from AFP)

The New Zealand cricket team have secured another test series victory after the second Test was called off as a draw. Williamson and Taylor had registered their centuries and safely guided their team to a draw to claim the series 1-0 against England after their victory in Mount Maunganui.

The New Zealand cricket team have secured another test series victory after the second Test was called off as a draw. Williamson and Taylor had registered their centuries and safely guided their team to a draw to claim the series 1-0 against England after their victory in Mount Maunganui. New Zealand won the first Test by an innings and 65 runs. The weather turned sour soon after lunch on the fifth day when New Zealand, having taken advantage of some sloppy fielding, were 241 for two in their second innings, 140 ahead with Taylor on 105 and Williamson on 104. With the weather denying England a second turn at bat, it ensured New Zealand's series win after their innings victory in the first Test, and improved their record to eight wins, a draw and one loss (to South Africa) in their past 10 series. Williamson brought up his 21st Test century with a four off Joe Root in the third over after lunch, while Taylor reached century number 19 with a flourish in Root's next over when he smacked a four and two sixes in consecutive balls. Two balls after Taylor had raised his bat and poked his tongue out in his signature celebration, the rain arrived to wash out England's faint hope of forcing a result although that chance had already been damaged by dropped catches. New Zealand resumed the day at 96 for two with England hunting early wickets but their plans went off track when Ollie Pope and Joe Denly spilled simple chances from Williamson. The New Zealand skipper was on 39 when wicketkeeper Pope put down a regulation offering off the gloves, much to bowler Ben Stokes annoyance, and on 62 Denly inexplicably dropped an even easier chance. Williamson gently chipped a slower delivery from Jofra Archer straight to Denly at short midwicket and, as the bowler leapt in celebration and Williamson made an apologetic gesture to Taylor, the ball popped out of Denly's hands. It drew instant comparisons on social media to the widely regarded worst dropped catch in Test history when England's Mike Gatting put down a sitter off the gloves of India batsman Kiran More in 1993. Williamson had another life when he should have been run out on 97 but Sam Curran's shy at the stumps was so far off line that the batsmen picked up an extra run. Even without the rain, Joe Root's chances of pulling off victory seemed very remote as the England bowlers toiled with an ageing ball on an unresponsive wicket. The one positive for the England captain was his return to form with a double century and man-of-the-match award after a year of averaging below 30 to give him confidence heading into a four-Test tour of South Africa. New Zealand, meanwhile, head to Australia on Saturday for a three-Test series with the 1-0 win over England cementing their number two world ranking behind India. The completed scoreboard in the second Test between New Zealand and England in Hamilton on Tuesday: New Zealand 1st innings 375 (T. Latham 105, D. Mitchell 73, B. Watling 55, R. Taylor 53; Broad 4-73, Woakes 3-83) England 1st innings 476 (J. Root 226, R. Burns 101, O. Pope 75; Wagner 5-124) New Zealand 2nd innings (overnight 96-2) T. Latham c Root b Woakes 18 J. Raval lbw b Curran 0 K. Williamson not out 104 R. Taylor not out 105 Extras (b2, lb3, w3, nb1, pen5) 14 Total (for two wkts, 75 overs) 241 Fall of wickets: 1-2 (Raval), 2-28 (Latham) Bowling: Broad 9-0-28-0, Curran 16-2-56-1 (2w), Archer 12-1-27-0, Woakes 11-4-12-1, Stokes 14-1-58-0 (1w, 1nb), Denly 9-1-27-0, Root 4-1-23-0 Toss: England Result: Match drawn Series: New Zealand win 1-0 Umpires: Kumar Dharmasena (SRI), Paul Wilson (AUS) TV Umpire: Bruce Oxenford (AUS) Match Referee: Javagal Srinath (IND) (With inputs from AFP)

New Zealand draw second test with England, win series

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-gun-owners-protest-over-tightening-of-laws-265383">New&nbsp;Zealand</a>&nbsp;moved to&nbsp;ban&nbsp;large&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;political&nbsp;donations&nbsp;and misleading social media advertisements Tuesday amid concerns about offshore interference in next year's general election.

Justice Minister Andrew Little said the move,&nbsp;which bars&nbsp;donations&nbsp;over NZ$50 (US$33),&nbsp;was aimed at protecting&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand's democracy from a growing international threat.

"We need to protect the integrity of our elections. These changes will reduce the risk of&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;money influencing our election outcomes," he said.

"We don't want our elections to go the way of recent overseas examples where&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;interference appears to have been at play."

Little did not say which countries prompted the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;but experts have consistently pointed the finger at China.

"It's in China's interest to extend influence in&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand, there's nothing wrong with that,&nbsp;that's what great powers do," Rodney Jones, a&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;economist based in Beijing told Newshub earlier this year.

"It's up to us. We need to set boundaries well ahead of time."

US intelligence says&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;interference played a major part in the 2016 American presidential election and a Canadian intelligence report this year found cyber-attackers targeted half the national elections held in major democracies in 2018.

New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;goes to the polls in late 2020, when centre-left Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will seek a second term. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Under existing laws,&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;political&nbsp;donations&nbsp;in&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;are capped at NZ$1,500 (US$975), although some say loopholes effectively raise the threshold to NZ$30,000.

The&nbsp;new&nbsp;limit for&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;or anonymous&nbsp;donations&nbsp;will be NZ$50.

"There's no need for anyone other than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/air-new-zealand-named-top-carrier-globally-in-annual-airline-awards-264722">New&nbsp;Zealanders</a> to donate to our&nbsp;political&nbsp;parties or seek to influence our elections," Little said.

The changes also require online&nbsp;political&nbsp;advertisements to contain details about their creators, which Little said was aimed at stopping the "avalanche of fake news social media ads" seen during overseas elections.

"Anonymous online advertisements aimed at interfering with our democracy will be prohibited," he said.&nbsp;

"If someone wants to advertise online they need to say who they are, the same as if the ad&nbsp;was published in a newspaper."

New&nbsp;Zealand's spy chief raised concerns about&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;political&nbsp;donations&nbsp;during a rare public appearance at a parliamentary committee hearing in April.

"In broad terms, I can say that we have seen activities by state actors that concern us," &nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;Security Intelligence Service director-general Rebecca Kitteridge said.

The measures must now pass parliament, where the governing coalition has a majority.

New Zealand moved to ban large foreign political donations and misleading social media advertisements Tuesday amid concerns about offshore interference in next year's general election.

New Zealand moved to ban large foreign political donations and misleading social media advertisements Tuesday amid concerns about offshore interference in next year's general election. Justice Minister Andrew Little said the move, which bars donations over NZ$50 (US$33), was aimed at protecting New Zealand's democracy from a growing international threat. "We need to protect the integrity of our elections. These changes will reduce the risk of foreign money influencing our election outcomes," he said. "We don't want our elections to go the way of recent overseas examples where foreign interference appears to have been at play." Little did not say which countries prompted the ban but experts have consistently pointed the finger at China. "It's in China's interest to extend influence in New Zealand, there's nothing wrong with that, that's what great powers do," Rodney Jones, a New Zealand economist based in Beijing told Newshub earlier this year. "It's up to us. We need to set boundaries well ahead of time." US intelligence says foreign interference played a major part in the 2016 American presidential election and a Canadian intelligence report this year found cyber-attackers targeted half the national elections held in major democracies in 2018. New Zealand goes to the polls in late 2020, when centre-left Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will seek a second term. Under existing laws, foreign political donations in New Zealand are capped at NZ$1,500 (US$975), although some say loopholes effectively raise the threshold to NZ$30,000. The new limit for foreign or anonymous donations will be NZ$50. "There's no need for anyone other than New Zealanders to donate to our political parties or seek to influence our elections," Little said. The changes also require online political advertisements to contain details about their creators, which Little said was aimed at stopping the "avalanche of fake news social media ads" seen during overseas elections. "Anonymous online advertisements aimed at interfering with our democracy will be prohibited," he said. "If someone wants to advertise online they need to say who they are, the same as if the ad was published in a newspaper." New Zealand's spy chief raised concerns about foreign political donations during a rare public appearance at a parliamentary committee hearing in April. "In broad terms, I can say that we have seen activities by state actors that concern us," New Zealand Security Intelligence Service director-general Rebecca Kitteridge said. The measures must now pass parliament, where the governing coalition has a majority.

New Zealand to ban foreign political donations over $33

Nearly 50 firearm owners protested against the tightening of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-tightens-gun-laws-again-after-mosque-massacre-249384">gun laws </a>in the wake of mosque shootings in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/accused-christchurch-gunman-to-face-50-murder-charges-nz-police-207812">Christchurch </a>this year that killed 51 worshippers.

As per media reports, the gun owners staged a protest at a gun buy-back event on Saturday in Auckland, where they held placards with slogans including "This bill hurts ordinary Kiwis!" and "Be safe: reject arms bill".&nbsp;

The government is seeking to pass legislation that intends stricter vetting of firearm owners and creating a gun register, among other changes. In April, the Parliament passed almost unanimously laws that will restrict the use and circulation of most of the semi-automatic guns.&nbsp;

The legislation also extends the jail term for supplying firearms to an unlicensed person from three months to two years, as well as as tightening gun importation and sales.&nbsp;

Police are given the power to decide whether someone is "fit and proper" to hold a license, with excluding anyone promoting extrmism, convicted of violent crime or dealing with mental health challenges including an attempt to suicide.&nbsp;

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has earned global praise for her work of controlling gun use, however, domestically, she is facing a lot of pressure, as the elections are approaching, from the federal opposition National Party, gun lobby groups and ordinary citizens over the legislation introduced in September.&nbsp;

Victoria O'Brien, a national shooting champion, said that destroying guns being bought back and destroyed had cultural significance, according to a New Zealand website.&nbsp;

"There is a desecration of New Zealand history going on, we're talking World War I, World War II guns," O'Brien said.

"We want them to stop and actually target the illegal possession of firearms," she said, asking the government to put reforms to hold.&nbsp;

(with inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Nearly 50 firearm owners protested against the tightening of gun laws in the wake of mosque shootings in Christchurch this year that killed 51 worshippers. As per media reports, the gun owners staged a protest at a gun buy-back event on Saturday in Auckland, where they held placards with slogans including "This bill hurts ordinary Kiwis!

Nearly 50 firearm owners protested against the tightening of gun laws in the wake of mosque shootings in Christchurch this year that killed 51 worshippers. As per media reports, the gun owners staged a protest at a gun buy-back event on Saturday in Auckland, where they held placards with slogans including "This bill hurts ordinary Kiwis!" and "Be safe: reject arms bill". The government is seeking to pass legislation that intends stricter vetting of firearm owners and creating a gun register, among other changes. In April, the Parliament passed almost unanimously laws that will restrict the use and circulation of most of the semi-automatic guns. The legislation also extends the jail term for supplying firearms to an unlicensed person from three months to two years, as well as as tightening gun importation and sales. Police are given the power to decide whether someone is "fit and proper" to hold a license, with excluding anyone promoting extrmism, convicted of violent crime or dealing with mental health challenges including an attempt to suicide. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has earned global praise for her work of controlling gun use, however, domestically, she is facing a lot of pressure, as the elections are approaching, from the federal opposition National Party, gun lobby groups and ordinary citizens over the legislation introduced in September. Victoria O'Brien, a national shooting champion, said that destroying guns being bought back and destroyed had cultural significance, according to a New Zealand website. "There is a desecration of New Zealand history going on, we're talking World War I, World War II guns," O'Brien said. "We want them to stop and actually target the illegal possession of firearms," she said, asking the government to put reforms to hold. (with inputs from Reuters and AFP)

New Zealand: Gun owners protest over tightening of laws

New Zealand Cricket has ordered increased security at the second Test against England in Hamilton after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-bit-disturbing-hearing-racial-insults-jofra-archer-264402">crowd member racially abused</a> visiting paceman Jofra Archer during the opening match in Mount Maunganui.

Black Caps captain Kane Williamson described the taunt as "horrific", while NZC said the culprit would be reported to the police and barred from cricket grounds if he was identified from the venue's CCTV footage.

"We're incredibly disappointed, it's just not acceptable and we won't tolerate it," NZC chief executive David White told Newstalk ZB radio.

Barbados-born Archer tweeted after the match concluded late Monday that it was "a bit disturbing hearing racial insults today whilst battling to help save my team".

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
A bit disturbing hearing racial insults today whilst battling to help save my team , the crowd was been amazing this week except for that one guy , <a href="https://twitter.com/TheBarmyArmy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheBarmyArmy</a> was good as usual also
— Jofra Archer (@JofraArcher) <a href="https://twitter.com/JofraArcher/status/1198870354980040714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The 24-year-old later told ESPNcricinfo that the abuser was a solitary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-passes-law-aiming-for-net-zero-carbon-emissions-by-2050-260547">New Zealand</a> spectator making comments "about the colour of my skin" after he was dismissed and walking toward the pavilion.

The incident has overshadowed the result of the first Test ever played at Bay Oval, which New Zealand won by an innings and 65 runs.

Kane said such racism was "against everything that we as Kiwis are about".

"It's a horrific thing. In a country and a setting where it is very much multi-cultural," he told news website stuff.co.nz.

"It's something we need to put to bed quickly and hope nothing like that ever happens again. It certainly won't if there's any influence we can have on it."

White said NZC was determined there would be no repeat at the second Test beginning Friday at Hamilton's Seddon Park and called on spectators to "self-police" unacceptable behaviour.

"We'll be increasing security around the areas where the players are, in particular when they're coming on and off the field, but it's quite difficult when players are on the boundary," he said.

"I'd like to think there's a bit of self-policing going on as well, we shouldn't be accepting this kind of behaviour in our society."

NZC said in a statement that it intends to apologise to Archer on Tuesday and Black Caps coach Gary Stead believed some of his players would also contact the England bowler.

Stead said he and the rest of the New Zealanders were unaware of the incident until after the match and wanted the person responsible caught.

"Hopefully, it was just one idiot in the crowd and they deal with it," he told Radio New Zealand.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said it was cooperating with NZC on an investigation into the incident.

"Whilst this is a relatively isolated incident there is absolutely no place for anti-social or racist behaviour within the game," it said.

"And it is vitally important that all spectators feel able to come forward to report such behaviour and feel safe in doing so."

New Zealand Cricket has ordered increased security at the second Test against England in Hamilton after a crowd member racially abused visiting paceman Jofra Archer during the opening match in Mount Maunganui.

New Zealand Cricket has ordered increased security at the second Test against England in Hamilton after a crowd member racially abused visiting paceman Jofra Archer during the opening match in Mount Maunganui. Black Caps captain Kane Williamson described the taunt as "horrific", while NZC said the culprit would be reported to the police and barred from cricket grounds if he was identified from the venue's CCTV footage. "We're incredibly disappointed, it's just not acceptable and we won't tolerate it," NZC chief executive David White told Newstalk ZB radio. Barbados-born Archer tweeted after the match concluded late Monday that it was "a bit disturbing hearing racial insults today whilst battling to help save my team". A bit disturbing hearing racial insults today whilst battling to help save my team , the crowd was been amazing this week except for that one guy , @TheBarmyArmy was good as usual also — Jofra Archer (@JofraArcher) November 25, 2019 × The 24-year-old later told ESPNcricinfo that the abuser was a solitary New Zealand spectator making comments "about the colour of my skin" after he was dismissed and walking toward the pavilion. The incident has overshadowed the result of the first Test ever played at Bay Oval, which New Zealand won by an innings and 65 runs. Kane said such racism was "against everything that we as Kiwis are about". "It's a horrific thing. In a country and a setting where it is very much multi-cultural," he told news website stuff.co.nz. "It's something we need to put to bed quickly and hope nothing like that ever happens again. It certainly won't if there's any influence we can have on it." White said NZC was determined there would be no repeat at the second Test beginning Friday at Hamilton's Seddon Park and called on spectators to "self-police" unacceptable behaviour. "We'll be increasing security around the areas where the players are, in particular when they're coming on and off the field, but it's quite difficult when players are on the boundary," he said. "I'd like to think there's a bit of self-policing going on as well, we shouldn't be accepting this kind of behaviour in our society." NZC said in a statement that it intends to apologise to Archer on Tuesday and Black Caps coach Gary Stead believed some of his players would also contact the England bowler. Stead said he and the rest of the New Zealanders were unaware of the incident until after the match and wanted the person responsible caught. "Hopefully, it was just one idiot in the crowd and they deal with it," he told Radio New Zealand. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said it was cooperating with NZC on an investigation into the incident. "Whilst this is a relatively isolated incident there is absolutely no place for anti-social or racist behaviour within the game," it said. "And it is vitally important that all spectators feel able to come forward to report such behaviour and feel safe in doing so."

New Zealand boosts Test security after Archer racially abused

The annual airline awards are out, judging the best in the sector across the globe, &nbsp;airline-ratings.com has come out with the top 20 best-in-class airlines.

For the sixth time in seven years, Air New Zealand has emerged as the best carrier in the world.

The assessment was done by an experienced and awarded team of professionals from the aviation sector.

Comparing the best in class service provided by the top names in the industry, the survey named the top 20 airlines.

To be in the top 20, airlines must achieve a seven-star safety rating, they must also demonstrate leadership in innovation for passenger comfort.

Releasing the findings, &nbsp;airline-ratings.com editor-in-chief Geoffrey Thomas said that going by these standards, Air New Zealand is the leader followed by Singapore Airlines.

Last year, Singapore Airlines ended Air New Zealand's five-year dominance.

Following closely behind is Japan's All Nippon Airways, Australia's Qantas and Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific in the top five slots.

The airlines got rated on 12 counts including fleet age, passenger review, investment rating, staff relations, product offering and profitability

Air New Zealand has had an obsession with the top spot. It is one of the few airlines in the world to have the lowest risk of default. Over the years, the airline has enjoyed a healthy expansion in its domestic and international circuit.

Singapore Airlines at no.2 spot has been at the forefront of passenger safety and comfort. In the past two years, they introduced new fleets of Airbus a350 and Boeing 787 known to be the best with cutting-edge technology

Japanese Nippon Airways enters the big league at no 3 standing out for its cabin innovation. Qantas comes in with its best lounge and domestic service and an all-time high customer approval rating.

Delta Airlines was America's favourite choice while Lufthansa was the best airline operator in the European continent.

Cathay Pacific at no. 5 was the best airline in the Asia-Pacific segment.

Emirates figures at no. 6 in overall rating while being the best airline in the Middle-East and Africa sector. In the coming year, the airline will introduce premium economy to its fleet.

The countdown also includes Britain's Virgin Atlantic, Taiwan's Eva Air, Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia, making a maiden entry at no. 10.

The survey also names the best low-cost carriers and leaders in regional sectors. Jet-blue in Americas, Wizz of Europe, Air Arabia in the Middle East and Africa and Air Asia in the Asia Pacific were the top budget carriers.

This is the first time, the rating has extended its survey to name the top 20 instead of top 10 airlines.

The annual airline awards are out, judging the best in the sector across the globe, airline-ratings.com has come out with the top 20 best-in-class airlines. For the sixth time in seven years, Air New Zealand has emerged as the best carrier in the world.

The annual airline awards are out, judging the best in the sector across the globe, airline-ratings.com has come out with the top 20 best-in-class airlines. For the sixth time in seven years, Air New Zealand has emerged as the best carrier in the world. The assessment was done by an experienced and awarded team of professionals from the aviation sector. Comparing the best in class service provided by the top names in the industry, the survey named the top 20 airlines. To be in the top 20, airlines must achieve a seven-star safety rating, they must also demonstrate leadership in innovation for passenger comfort. Releasing the findings, airline-ratings.com editor-in-chief Geoffrey Thomas said that going by these standards, Air New Zealand is the leader followed by Singapore Airlines. Last year, Singapore Airlines ended Air New Zealand's five-year dominance. Following closely behind is Japan's All Nippon Airways, Australia's Qantas and Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific in the top five slots. The airlines got rated on 12 counts including fleet age, passenger review, investment rating, staff relations, product offering and profitability Air New Zealand has had an obsession with the top spot. It is one of the few airlines in the world to have the lowest risk of default. Over the years, the airline has enjoyed a healthy expansion in its domestic and international circuit. Singapore Airlines at no.2 spot has been at the forefront of passenger safety and comfort. In the past two years, they introduced new fleets of Airbus a350 and Boeing 787 known to be the best with cutting-edge technology Japanese Nippon Airways enters the big league at no 3 standing out for its cabin innovation. Qantas comes in with its best lounge and domestic service and an all-time high customer approval rating. Delta Airlines was America's favourite choice while Lufthansa was the best airline operator in the European continent. Cathay Pacific at no. 5 was the best airline in the Asia-Pacific segment. Emirates figures at no. 6 in overall rating while being the best airline in the Middle-East and Africa sector. In the coming year, the airline will introduce premium economy to its fleet. The countdown also includes Britain's Virgin Atlantic, Taiwan's Eva Air, Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia, making a maiden entry at no. 10. The survey also names the best low-cost carriers and leaders in regional sectors. Jet-blue in Americas, Wizz of Europe, Air Arabia in the Middle East and Africa and Air Asia in the Asia Pacific were the top budget carriers. This is the first time, the rating has extended its survey to name the top 20 instead of top 10 airlines.

Air New Zealand named top carrier globally in annual airline awards

New Zealand Cricket chief David White visited England's Jofra Archer in his hotel on Tuesday to apologise for the racial abuse the fast bowler said he was subjected to in the first Test at Mount Maunganui.

The England and New Zealand cricket boards both launched investigations on Monday after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-bit-disturbing-hearing-racial-insults-jofra-archer-264402">Archer reported racial abuse</a> from a spectator to ground stewards at Bay Oval.

White said he had offered assurances to Archer that there would be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-boosts-test-security-after-archer-racially-abused-264531">extra security</a> to ensure there was no repeat when the second test started in Hamilton on Friday.

"I just had a good chat to him," the NZC chief executive said in Hamilton.

"I said that we were very sorry that he had to experience that in our country and we're very disappointed, but he was very thankful I had made the effort to come see him."

Archer, who was born in Barbados and represented West Indies at Under-19 level, scored 30 runs on Monday to delay New Zealand's innings and 65-run victory in the first Test.

The 24-year-old then took to Twitter to say he had found it "a bit disturbing" to hear the racial insults coming from one person in the crowd.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
A bit disturbing hearing racial insults today whilst battling to help save my team , the crowd was been amazing this week except for that one guy , <a href="https://twitter.com/TheBarmyArmy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheBarmyArmy</a> was good as usual also
— Jofra Archer (@JofraArcher) <a href="https://twitter.com/JofraArcher/status/1198870354980040714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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White said, if identified, the alleged perpetrator would be referred to the police and New Zealand Cricket would push for the person to be banned for life from attending cricket matches.

"Our team is working closely with the team at Bay Oval just going through the security footage and trying to get as much information as we can and hopefully we'll find the individual over the next day or so," White added.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, who lives close to the Bay Oval ground, said he would also seek out Archer to offer an apology.

"It's a horrific thing," Williamson told Fairfax media.

"In a country, and a setting where it is very much multi-cultural, it's something we need to put to bed quickly and hope nothing like that ever happens again."

England team director Ashley Giles said the 24-year-old paceman had been affected by the incident but thought his teammates would offer him plenty of support.

"The tweet that went out was obviously emotional. It hurts," Giles said.

"You know what our team is like, they'll rally round him pretty well but it's a serious incident. He's a young man making his way in the game and we don't need this sort of thing."

New Zealand Cricket chief David White visited England's Jofra Archer in his hotel on Tuesday to apologise for the racial abuse the fast bowler said he was subjected to in the first Test at Mount Maunganui.

New Zealand Cricket chief David White visited England's Jofra Archer in his hotel on Tuesday to apologise for the racial abuse the fast bowler said he was subjected to in the first Test at Mount Maunganui. The England and New Zealand cricket boards both launched investigations on Monday after Archer reported racial abuse from a spectator to ground stewards at Bay Oval. White said he had offered assurances to Archer that there would be extra security to ensure there was no repeat when the second test started in Hamilton on Friday. "I just had a good chat to him," the NZC chief executive said in Hamilton. "I said that we were very sorry that he had to experience that in our country and we're very disappointed, but he was very thankful I had made the effort to come see him." Archer, who was born in Barbados and represented West Indies at Under-19 level, scored 30 runs on Monday to delay New Zealand's innings and 65-run victory in the first Test. The 24-year-old then took to Twitter to say he had found it "a bit disturbing" to hear the racial insults coming from one person in the crowd. A bit disturbing hearing racial insults today whilst battling to help save my team , the crowd was been amazing this week except for that one guy , @TheBarmyArmy was good as usual also — Jofra Archer (@JofraArcher) November 25, 2019 × White said, if identified, the alleged perpetrator would be referred to the police and New Zealand Cricket would push for the person to be banned for life from attending cricket matches. "Our team is working closely with the team at Bay Oval just going through the security footage and trying to get as much information as we can and hopefully we'll find the individual over the next day or so," White added. New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, who lives close to the Bay Oval ground, said he would also seek out Archer to offer an apology. "It's a horrific thing," Williamson told Fairfax media. "In a country, and a setting where it is very much multi-cultural, it's something we need to put to bed quickly and hope nothing like that ever happens again." England team director Ashley Giles said the 24-year-old paceman had been affected by the incident but thought his teammates would offer him plenty of support. "The tweet that went out was obviously emotional. It hurts," Giles said. "You know what our team is like, they'll rally round him pretty well but it's a serious incident. He's a young man making his way in the game and we don't need this sort of thing."

New Zealand cricket chief apologises to England's Jofra Archer for racial abuse

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-measles-cases-three-times-higher-than-last-year-who-246324">Deaths related to measles</a>, mostly among small children, have more than tripled to 20 in the past week on the Pacific island of Samoa, the government has said eight days after declaring a state of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/samoa-measles-vaccine-now-mandatory-to-limit-deadly-outbreak-262803">emergency over the outbreak</a>.

The island state of just 200,000, located south of the equator and half way between Hawaii and New Zealand, declared a measles epidemic late in October after the first deaths.

The government has identified 1,644 suspected cases of measles, more than doubling over the past week, with deaths rising to 20 from six, it said on Friday. Children younger than five accounted for all but one of the deaths.

Staff of U.N. agency UNICEF have delivered 110,500 doses of measles containing vaccines this week as they fanned out across Samoa to boost its mandatory immunisation effort, the agency said in a statement.

It has also worked with governments of other tiny Pacific nations to run immunisation campaigns and develop preparedness plans to combat a regional outbreak, it added.

Australia is sending a specialist team of doctors, nurses and public health experts to Samoa, along with equipment and supplies, the foreign ministry said in a statement.

Deaths related to measles, mostly among small children, have more than tripled to 20 in the past week on the Pacific island of Samoa, the government has said eight days after declaring a state of emergency over the outbreak.

Deaths related to measles, mostly among small children, have more than tripled to 20 in the past week on the Pacific island of Samoa, the government has said eight days after declaring a state of emergency over the outbreak. The island state of just 200,000, located south of the equator and half way between Hawaii and New Zealand, declared a measles epidemic late in October after the first deaths. The government has identified 1,644 suspected cases of measles, more than doubling over the past week, with deaths rising to 20 from six, it said on Friday. Children younger than five accounted for all but one of the deaths. Staff of U.N. agency UNICEF have delivered 110,500 doses of measles containing vaccines this week as they fanned out across Samoa to boost its mandatory immunisation effort, the agency said in a statement. It has also worked with governments of other tiny Pacific nations to run immunisation campaigns and develop preparedness plans to combat a regional outbreak, it added. Australia is sending a specialist team of doctors, nurses and public health experts to Samoa, along with equipment and supplies, the foreign ministry said in a statement.

Samoa measles outbreak kills 20, mostly children

Two bolts of lightning were seen striking near a passenger plane on the runway at New Zealand's Christchurch International Airport on Wednesday (November 20), narrowly missing the aircraft, according to an aviation worker.

GCH Aviation employee Daniel Currie was watching the storm and assessing the risk for aircraft to be moved inside the hangers at 3.30 pm local time when he captured the moment on his mobile phone.

The aviation operator said the lightning did not directly hit the Emirates Airbus A380 aircraft and there appeared to be no damage to the plane or harm to passengers.

Two bolts of lightning were seen striking near a passenger plane on the runway at New Zealand's Christchurch International Airport on Wednesday (November 20), narrowly missing the aircraft, according to an aviation worker.

Two bolts of lightning were seen striking near a passenger plane on the runway at New Zealand's Christchurch International Airport on Wednesday (November 20), narrowly missing the aircraft, according to an aviation worker. GCH Aviation employee Daniel Currie was watching the storm and assessing the risk for aircraft to be moved inside the hangers at 3.30 pm local time when he captured the moment on his mobile phone. The aviation operator said the lightning did not directly hit the Emirates Airbus A380 aircraft and there appeared to be no damage to the plane or harm to passengers.

Passenger plane narrowly escapes from lightning at airport in New Zealand

New Zealander Dave Rennie was tasked on Wednesday with resurrecting Australia's rugby team, replacing Michael Cheika as head coach in a "massive coup" that will see him lead the Wallabies to the 2023 World Cup in France.

The 55-year-old, only the second non-Australian appointed to the job, will fulfil his commitments with Scottish side Glasgow Warriors, where he is currently coach, before assuming his new role in July next year, Rugby Australia said.

The Wallabies are due to play Ireland in Brisbane on July 4, giving Rennie little time to stamp his mark on the side before the Rugby Championship, where they face World Cup winners South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina.

That two-game series against the Irish will be an important one to restore faith in the team after their World Cup quarter-final exit to England in Japan, where their tactics were widely criticised.

Rugby Australia chief Raelene Castle, herself a New Zealander, said Rennie had always been the favoured choice to replace Cheika, who fell on his sword after the World Cup and a series of poor results leading up to it.

"This is a massive coup for Australian rugby. Dave Rennie was the clear standout candidate for the job, and we're thrilled to have secured his services," Castle said.

"Dave's coaching philosophy focuses equally on football and team culture, the key pillars of building sustainable success in any team.&nbsp;He has a proven track record in the northern and southern hemisphere."

Castle said six or seven candidates were in the running and confirmed she had spoken to England coach Eddie Jones, but he remained under contract and was ruled out.

Rennie, who follows compatriot Robbie Deans as the only other foreigner to coach the Wallabies, had been sounded out by New Zealand Rugby about applying for the All Blacks job.

All Blacks assistant Ian Foster and three-time Super Rugby-winning Crusaders coach Scott Robertson appear to be the front-runners for that position, left vacant by Steve Hansen's departure.&nbsp;

Japan coach Jamie Joseph also ruled himself out of the All Blacks job when he signed a new, four-year deal with the Brave Blossoms this week.

"I've been coaching professionally for over 20 years and wherever I've gone, I've immersed myself in the community and culture. I believe I can make a difference here," Rennie said in a statement.&nbsp;

"There are some outstanding young men coming through the schools system. I want to create a strong connection with the Super Rugby and national age-grade coaches and help them achieve their goals, which will benefit the Wallabies in time," he said.

"When I met Raelene Castle, I was really impressed with her plans for the future of Australian rugby and I'm keen to be part of that," he added.

Rennie has enjoyed huge success as a coach which bodes well for the Wallabies, who are rebuilding after losing a swathe of senior players through retirement or moves overseas since the World Cup ended.

Rennie joined New Zealand Super Rugby franchise the Waikato Chiefs as coach in 2012 and led them to back-to-back southern hemisphere titles in his first two years in charge.

The Hamilton-based team played finals in each of the six seasons he spent with them, a mark unmatched by any head coach in the competition's history.

He was appointed Glasgow Warriors coach for the 2017/18 season and in his second year took them to the Pro14 final and the last eight of the European Champions Cup, the first time the Warriors have made the playoffs in both competitions.

Australian director of rugby Scott Johnson, who knew Rennie from his previous role with the Scotland Rugby Union, called him a "really humble man, a tracksuit coach".

"He does a lot of work on skills development, plays a very attractive way and what you see is what you get," he said. "That fits our dynamic. He's a hard-working coach too -- first in and last to leave, and he has good people skills."

Johnson said Wallabies assistant coaches would manage the team until Rennie takes over in July, though Rennie will come to Australia at least once to "check directions".

"We will be in complete dialogue through that period," he said.

New Zealander Dave Rennie was tasked on Wednesday with resurrecting Australia's rugby team, replacing Michael Cheika as head coach in a "massive coup" that will see him lead the Wallabies to the 2023 World Cup in France.

New Zealander Dave Rennie was tasked on Wednesday with resurrecting Australia's rugby team, replacing Michael Cheika as head coach in a "massive coup" that will see him lead the Wallabies to the 2023 World Cup in France. The 55-year-old, only the second non-Australian appointed to the job, will fulfil his commitments with Scottish side Glasgow Warriors, where he is currently coach, before assuming his new role in July next year, Rugby Australia said. The Wallabies are due to play Ireland in Brisbane on July 4, giving Rennie little time to stamp his mark on the side before the Rugby Championship, where they face World Cup winners South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina. That two-game series against the Irish will be an important one to restore faith in the team after their World Cup quarter-final exit to England in Japan, where their tactics were widely criticised. Rugby Australia chief Raelene Castle, herself a New Zealander, said Rennie had always been the favoured choice to replace Cheika, who fell on his sword after the World Cup and a series of poor results leading up to it. "This is a massive coup for Australian rugby. Dave Rennie was the clear standout candidate for the job, and we're thrilled to have secured his services," Castle said. "Dave's coaching philosophy focuses equally on football and team culture, the key pillars of building sustainable success in any team. He has a proven track record in the northern and southern hemisphere." Castle said six or seven candidates were in the running and confirmed she had spoken to England coach Eddie Jones, but he remained under contract and was ruled out. Rennie, who follows compatriot Robbie Deans as the only other foreigner to coach the Wallabies, had been sounded out by New Zealand Rugby about applying for the All Blacks job. All Blacks assistant Ian Foster and three-time Super Rugby-winning Crusaders coach Scott Robertson appear to be the front-runners for that position, left vacant by Steve Hansen's departure. Japan coach Jamie Joseph also ruled himself out of the All Blacks job when he signed a new, four-year deal with the Brave Blossoms this week. "I've been coaching professionally for over 20 years and wherever I've gone, I've immersed myself in the community and culture. I believe I can make a difference here," Rennie said in a statement. "There are some outstanding young men coming through the schools system. I want to create a strong connection with the Super Rugby and national age-grade coaches and help them achieve their goals, which will benefit the Wallabies in time," he said. "When I met Raelene Castle, I was really impressed with her plans for the future of Australian rugby and I'm keen to be part of that," he added. Rennie has enjoyed huge success as a coach which bodes well for the Wallabies, who are rebuilding after losing a swathe of senior players through retirement or moves overseas since the World Cup ended. Rennie joined New Zealand Super Rugby franchise the Waikato Chiefs as coach in 2012 and led them to back-to-back southern hemisphere titles in his first two years in charge. The Hamilton-based team played finals in each of the six seasons he spent with them, a mark unmatched by any head coach in the competition's history. He was appointed Glasgow Warriors coach for the 2017/18 season and in his second year took them to the Pro14 final and the last eight of the European Champions Cup, the first time the Warriors have made the playoffs in both competitions. Australian director of rugby Scott Johnson, who knew Rennie from his previous role with the Scotland Rugby Union, called him a "really humble man, a tracksuit coach". "He does a lot of work on skills development, plays a very attractive way and what you see is what you get," he said. "That fits our dynamic. He's a hard-working coach too -- first in and last to leave, and he has good people skills." Johnson said Wallabies assistant coaches would manage the team until Rennie takes over in July, though Rennie will come to Australia at least once to "check directions". "We will be in complete dialogue through that period," he said.

Rugby: New Zealander Rennie appointed Australia coach

New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been rewarded for his success in white-ball cricket with a maiden call-up to the test squad for matches against England and Australia, the country's board (NZC) said on Friday.

Ferguson finished as the second highest wicket-taker at the 50-overs World Cup in England where New Zealand lost a nail-biting final in a super over to the hosts.

The 28-year-old has played 36 one-day internationals and eight Twenty20 matches for the Black Caps while he has also shown strong domestic form with 153 wickets from 42 first-class games at an average of 24.30.

"There's no doubt Lockie has been knocking on the door for a while now and we're delighted to finally bring him into the Test fold," selector Gavin Larsen said in a NZC statement.

"It's well documented he has raw pace, but he also possesses a quality bowling skillset and has proved his durability.

"Our pace bowling stocks are strong at the moment and we feel Lockie will add another dimension to the picture, and will create some great competition."

Batting mainstay Kane Williamson will lead the side after missing the recently concluded T20 international series against England with a hip injury.

Leg-spinner Todd Astle was the only other change to the squad from that which drew a two-test series 1-1 in Sri Lanka in August, with spinners Will Somerville and Ajaz Patel left out.

After hosting England for a two-test series, starting on November&nbsp;21 at Mount Maunganui, New Zealand travel to Australia to play three tests.

&nbsp;

Squad: Kane Williamson (captain), Todd Astle, Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Jeet Raval, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling

New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been rewarded for his success in white-ball cricket with a maiden call-up to the test squad for matches against England and Australia, the country's board (NZC) said on Friday.

New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been rewarded for his success in white-ball cricket with a maiden call-up to the test squad for matches against England and Australia, the country's board (NZC) said on Friday. Ferguson finished as the second highest wicket-taker at the 50-overs World Cup in England where New Zealand lost a nail-biting final in a super over to the hosts. The 28-year-old has played 36 one-day internationals and eight Twenty20 matches for the Black Caps while he has also shown strong domestic form with 153 wickets from 42 first-class games at an average of 24.30. "There's no doubt Lockie has been knocking on the door for a while now and we're delighted to finally bring him into the Test fold," selector Gavin Larsen said in a NZC statement. "It's well documented he has raw pace, but he also possesses a quality bowling skillset and has proved his durability. "Our pace bowling stocks are strong at the moment and we feel Lockie will add another dimension to the picture, and will create some great competition." Batting mainstay Kane Williamson will lead the side after missing the recently concluded T20 international series against England with a hip injury. Leg-spinner Todd Astle was the only other change to the squad from that which drew a two-test series 1-1 in Sri Lanka in August, with spinners Will Somerville and Ajaz Patel left out. After hosting England for a two-test series, starting on November 21 at Mount Maunganui, New Zealand travel to Australia to play three tests. Squad: Kane Williamson (captain), Todd Astle, Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Jeet Raval, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling

Cricket: Fast bowler Ferguson gets New Zealand test call

England won the fifth T20I in a thrilling super-over by nine runs against New Zealand at the Eden Park on Sunday.

England also clinched the five-match T20I series by 3-2. In the super-over, the visitors came to bat first and posted a target of 18 runs for Kiwis.

Skipper Eoin Morgan scored nine off three balls while Jonny Bairstow hammered eight off three deliveries.

On the other hand, the hosts were only able to score eight runs with a loss of one wicket in their super-over bowled by Chris Jordan.

Tim Seifert played a knock of six runs in four balls while Martin Guptill scored one run.

Earlier, England won the toss and decided to bowl. In a rain-affected match, both the teams were allotted eleven overs of play.

Batting first, New Zealand posted a total of 146/5 in their 11 overs. Kiwis got the steady start as their openers Guptill and Colin Munro scored runs at a fast pace and built a partnership of 83-run in 31 balls.

Adil Rashid provided the much-awaited breakthrough for his side as he scalped Guptill (50) in the sixth over.

Colin de Grandhomme failed to leave his mark on the crease and was sent back to the pavilion after scoring six runs in the seventh over.

Munro who played a knock of 46 runs off 21 balls was dismissed by Sam Curran in the 10th over, reducing kiwis to 120/3 in 9.1 overs.

Jimmy Neesham joined Seifert in the middle and built a brief partnership of 23-run. Seifert amassed 39 runs off 16 balls to get past the team`s total to 140.

For England, Curran, Rashid, and Saqib Mahmood scalped one wicket each. Chasing 147 runs, England were only able to score 146/7 in their eleven overs.

After which the match tied and super-over was played. The English team had a poor start as they lost two early wickets Tom Banton (7) and James Vince (1) reducing the visitors to 9/2 in 1.1 overs.

Eoin Morgan and Jonny Bairstow stitched a 30-run partnership for the third wicket before the former was picked by Trent boult in the third over.Sam Curran joined Bairstow in the middle and helped the side to get past the 100-run mark.

Both built a partnership of 61 runs for the fourth wicket. Bairstow played a knock of 47 runs in 18 balls before becoming the victim of Jimmy Neesham in the seventh over.

Sam (24) was also sent back to the pavilion by Mitchell Santner on the next ball. Lewis Gregory (6) and Tom Curran (12) failed to leave their mark on the scoreboard and were scalped by Santner and Neesham, respectively.

Sam Billings and Chris Jordan remained unbeaten on 11 and 12 runs, respectively.

For New Zealand, Boult, Santner, and Neesham scalped two wickets each. The final of the ICC Men`s World Cup between New Zealand and England at the Lord`s Cricket Ground on July 14 could not separate the two sides despite the 50-over match and subsequent super over as both ended in a tie.

England were finally declared the champions on the basis of boundary countback rule. Both the teams will now face each other in the first Test of the two-match series from November 21.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

England won the fifth T20I in a thrilling super-over by nine runs against New Zealand at the Eden Park on Sunday. England also clinched the five-match T20I series by 3-2.

England won the fifth T20I in a thrilling super-over by nine runs against New Zealand at the Eden Park on Sunday. England also clinched the five-match T20I series by 3-2. In the super-over, the visitors came to bat first and posted a target of 18 runs for Kiwis. Skipper Eoin Morgan scored nine off three balls while Jonny Bairstow hammered eight off three deliveries. On the other hand, the hosts were only able to score eight runs with a loss of one wicket in their super-over bowled by Chris Jordan. Tim Seifert played a knock of six runs in four balls while Martin Guptill scored one run. Earlier, England won the toss and decided to bowl. In a rain-affected match, both the teams were allotted eleven overs of play. Batting first, New Zealand posted a total of 146/5 in their 11 overs. Kiwis got the steady start as their openers Guptill and Colin Munro scored runs at a fast pace and built a partnership of 83-run in 31 balls. Adil Rashid provided the much-awaited breakthrough for his side as he scalped Guptill (50) in the sixth over. Colin de Grandhomme failed to leave his mark on the crease and was sent back to the pavilion after scoring six runs in the seventh over. Munro who played a knock of 46 runs off 21 balls was dismissed by Sam Curran in the 10th over, reducing kiwis to 120/3 in 9.1 overs. Jimmy Neesham joined Seifert in the middle and built a brief partnership of 23-run. Seifert amassed 39 runs off 16 balls to get past the team`s total to 140. For England, Curran, Rashid, and Saqib Mahmood scalped one wicket each. Chasing 147 runs, England were only able to score 146/7 in their eleven overs. After which the match tied and super-over was played. The English team had a poor start as they lost two early wickets Tom Banton (7) and James Vince (1) reducing the visitors to 9/2 in 1.1 overs. Eoin Morgan and Jonny Bairstow stitched a 30-run partnership for the third wicket before the former was picked by Trent boult in the third over.Sam Curran joined Bairstow in the middle and helped the side to get past the 100-run mark. Both built a partnership of 61 runs for the fourth wicket. Bairstow played a knock of 47 runs in 18 balls before becoming the victim of Jimmy Neesham in the seventh over. Sam (24) was also sent back to the pavilion by Mitchell Santner on the next ball. Lewis Gregory (6) and Tom Curran (12) failed to leave their mark on the scoreboard and were scalped by Santner and Neesham, respectively. Sam Billings and Chris Jordan remained unbeaten on 11 and 12 runs, respectively. For New Zealand, Boult, Santner, and Neesham scalped two wickets each. The final of the ICC Men`s World Cup between New Zealand and England at the Lord`s Cricket Ground on July 14 could not separate the two sides despite the 50-over match and subsequent super over as both ended in a tie. England were finally declared the champions on the basis of boundary countback rule. Both the teams will now face each other in the first Test of the two-match series from November 21.

England win by 9 runs in super-over against New Zealand, clinch T20I series by 3-2

England have called up batsman Jonny Bairstow for the test series against New Zealand as injury cover for Joe Denly, the England and Wales Cricket Board said on Thursday.

Bairstow, who was due to fly home after the ongoing T20 series, was left out of the Test squad following a disappointing Ashes series against Australia.

Denly injured his ankle in training.&nbsp;

"(Denly) is making progress on his rehabilitation and is hoping that he will be fit to play in the three-day warm-up match starting on Friday, November&nbsp;15," the ECB said.

England have another warm-up game before that in which Bairstow, who has scored more than 4,000 runs in 69 tests, can press his claims for a spot in the side ahead of the two-match series starting on November&nbsp;20.

England have called up batsman Jonny Bairstow for the test series against New Zealand as injury cover for Joe Denly, the England and Wales Cricket Board said on Thursday.

England have called up batsman Jonny Bairstow for the test series against New Zealand as injury cover for Joe Denly, the England and Wales Cricket Board said on Thursday. Bairstow, who was due to fly home after the ongoing T20 series, was left out of the Test squad following a disappointing Ashes series against Australia. Denly injured his ankle in training. "(Denly) is making progress on his rehabilitation and is hoping that he will be fit to play in the three-day warm-up match starting on Friday, November 15," the ECB said. England have another warm-up game before that in which Bairstow, who has scored more than 4,000 runs in 69 tests, can press his claims for a spot in the side ahead of the two-match series starting on November 20.

Cricket: England call up Bairstow as cover for Denly

New Zealand has placed itself on the right side of history in the battle against climate change. NZ Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Thursday after lawmakers adopted a measure to cut carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050.

New Zealand lawmakers adopted measure to cut-down carbon emissions to net zero by 2050

New Zealand has placed itself on the right side of history in the battle against climate change, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Thursday (November 7), after lawmakers adopted a measure to cut carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050.

"Our world is warming, and so, therefore, the question for all of us is, 'what side of history will we choose to sit on in that moment in time?' I absolutely believe and continue to stand by this statement that Climate change is the biggest challenge of our time. And for us in Aotearoa, New Zealand, that means for this generation this is our nuclear moment.&nbsp;We have made a choice that I am proud of, that will leave a legacy and that I hope means the next generation will see that we, in New Zealand, were on the right side of history," she said on the floor of the parliament.

Thursday's framework enshrines in law the new 2050 greenhouse gas reduction target and makes it a legally binding objective to keep global warming below a rise of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/limiting-global-warming-to-15-will-require-a-social-transformation-170375">1.5 degrees</a> Celsius forecast by the United Nations.

The bill, spearheaded by her centre-left Labour-led coalition government, was passed with cross-party support from the main opposition National Party, despite changes promised by the latter if it wins the next election in 2020.

The bill accords different treatment to methane emissions from animals versus other greenhouse gases, but still targets a cut of 10 percent&nbsp;in biological methane by 2030 and up to 47 percent&nbsp;by 2050.

New Zealand has placed itself on the right side of history in the battle against climate change, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Thursday (November 7), after lawmakers adopted a measure to cut carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050.

New Zealand has placed itself on the right side of history in the battle against climate change, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Thursday (November 7), after lawmakers adopted a measure to cut carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050. "Our world is warming, and so, therefore, the question for all of us is, 'what side of history will we choose to sit on in that moment in time?' I absolutely believe and continue to stand by this statement that Climate change is the biggest challenge of our time. And for us in Aotearoa, New Zealand, that means for this generation this is our nuclear moment. We have made a choice that I am proud of, that will leave a legacy and that I hope means the next generation will see that we, in New Zealand, were on the right side of history," she said on the floor of the parliament. Thursday's framework enshrines in law the new 2050 greenhouse gas reduction target and makes it a legally binding objective to keep global warming below a rise of 1.5 degrees Celsius forecast by the United Nations. The bill, spearheaded by her centre-left Labour-led coalition government, was passed with cross-party support from the main opposition National Party, despite changes promised by the latter if it wins the next election in 2020. The bill accords different treatment to methane emissions from animals versus other greenhouse gases, but still targets a cut of 10 percent in biological methane by 2030 and up to 47 percent by 2050.

New Zealand passes law aiming for net zero carbon emissions by 2050

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