Most of the defendants accused of health and safety breaches in the lead-up to the deadly 2019 Whakaari eruption say they need more time before they can enter pleas.
Thirteen parties have been charged, among them the island's owners, several tour companies and two government agencies - GNS Science and the National Emergency Management Agency.
The case was called in the Whakatāne District Court this morning - but the judge warned it will be some time before it goes to trial.
Our reporter Sarah Robson filed this story.
