New Zealand Police have revealed the 21st victim of December's White Island eruption is US man Pratap 'Paul' Singh.
Mr Singh was visiting White Island from Atlanta, Georgia with his wife, Mayuri 'Mary' Singh, who also died as a result of burns suffered in the eruption.
The pair's nephew, Bhupender 'Vick' Singh, released a statement on Thursday night, describing his uncle Paul as an "invincible businessman" and his aunty Mary as "a true supermom".
"His unmatched exuberance and unconditional love for everyone around him will forever be missed," Bhupender Singh said.
"He was the best father, best guardian, best brother, best uncle, best volunteer and the best friend anyone could wish."
White Island volcano victims Pratap 'Paul' Singh and his wife Mayuri 'Mary' Singh. Source: New Zealand Police
After learning his family members were caught up in the eruption, Bhupender Singh travelled to New Zealand to care for them.
He arrived on December 10, 12 days before Mrs Singh succumbed to her injuries, having suffered burns to 72 per cent of her body.
Mr Singh, who suffered burns to 55 per cent of his body, was also stationed at Auckland's Middlemore Hospital - the site of the country's major burns unit.
"I visited Paul and Mary every day since December 10 while they were at the Middlemore Hospital. The last 50 days were distressing, slow and agonisingly painful," Bhupender Singh said.
"We would like to commend and acknowledge the doctors/consultants, nurses and the administrative staff of Middlemore Hospital for their efforts in providing best medical attention and care possible in New Zealand.
"We offer our sincere condolences and do share the pain and sorrow of the families who have lost their loved ones in this tragic incident."
Of the 21 killed in the blast, 14 were Australian.
Several others remain in Australian and New Zealand hospitals receiving treatment.
