After navigating the eruption of Hawaii's Kilauea volcano this past week, New Zealand born Arapeta Moleni says he better understands the Fire Goddess Pele that looms over the island's inhabitants.
In other words, he understands for the first time the risk of volcanic eruption in reality - not just in Hawaiian folklore.
"When we moved we knew of the risks. That area particularly is very high risk for that kind of volcanic activity," Mr Moleni said.
"So even knowing the risks you never really are prepared for it when it does happen.
"It's helped us to realise that anything can happen at any time so we've got to prepare ourselves the best way we can."
Dozens of properties have been destroyed after news fissures opened shooting lava 70m into the air.
Mr Moleni moved to Hawaii's Big Island four years ago with his wife, four children and dog.
He grew up in New Zealand until he was 12-year-old and has lived in the US ever since.
His family live in Kea'au about 30 minutes from Kilauea.
Around 50 buildings have so far been lost from lava flows from fissures in Mt Kilauea, but there have been no fatalities.
He says the impact of Kilauea on his neighbours has been widespread and demoralising.
"Some people had to leave animals behind, everyone had to leave a bunch of property behind that they worked hard for," Mr Moleni said.
What he does know from living on the Big Island, is that native Hawaiian believe the Fire Goddess Pele is causing the chaos, and that she's angry.
More than 30 homes have been destroyed so far and 1800 residents evacuated.
"I just know she's the one I guess, she's responsible for this somehow. But hey, we live on her island so it's something we should expect."
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