The trial of parties facing WorkSafe charges relating to the Whakaari-White Island disaster two and a half years ago, begins 300km away from the site of the calamity.

The charges relate only to allegations of health and safety failures in the lead up to the eruption. None relate to the rescue and recovery of victims on the day of the eruption.

There were 47 people on the island at the time – Australians, Americans, New Zealanders, Germans, Chinese, Britons and a Malay. Twenty two of them died from extreme burns and blast injures in the volcanic explosion.

There are six defendants for the judge alone trial in Auckland District Court this afternoon.

The trial has been set down for four months. They include the island's owners, the Buttle family.

The trial comes after WorkSafe's biggest ever investigation, involving 40 per cent of its inspectors, and is expected to attract worldwide attention.

The charges, brought by WorkSafe New Zealand, allege health and safety failings relating to the fatal eruption.

Several other parties that were charged have since pleaded guilty, including three commercial helicopter tour operators.

There'll be no need for them to face trial, also over health and safety failings leading up to the disaster, and they will be sentenced in the weeks to come.

Because of the widespread interest in the case from the public and media, the trial is being held in the large Environment Court in Auckland.

Whakatāne people will be able to watch a livestream at Acacia House, 19 Louvain Street, with doors opening at 2pm.