HBRW 2026 - Surviving White Island

The eruption of Whakaari White Island in December 2019 was one of Aotearoa’s most devastating disasters, shocking New Zealanders and the world alike. Kelsey Waghorn, a young guide caught up in it all, has written an inspiring memoir, Surviving White Island: and everything that came after. She will be chatting with author, Lauren Keenan (The Other Catherine) about the lengthy road to recovery, both physically and mentally, a story about acceptance, strength, perseverance and hope.

Author bio
Kelsey Waghorn grew up in Whakatane. She was still in high school when she discovered a passion for the sea and everything in it and on it. She gained a diploma in marine science and a degree in biological sciences and when, after graduating, she was offered a job taking tourists around Whakaari White Island. She accepted so she could spend the summer on the sea going back and forth to the island. Five years and one day later she was still in the job. But that was the day her whole life changed.

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