Whakaari prosecution expected to draw crowds Twenty-two people died following the eruption on December 9, 2019. Photo: NZDF. '); } else { // } Intense community and media interest in the next Whakaari WorkSafe prosecution hearing is expected to see the Whakatane District Court crammed to its limits – so much so the Ministry of Justice will be livestreaming the event to a second location in the town. The 13 companies and individuals charged by WorkSafe over the deadly eruption will be appearing in the Whakatane court next Thursday and Friday for an administrative hearing at which several matters could be discussed, including the venue for future hearings and any trial or trials.