White Island explosion death toll rises to 22

The death toll of the tragic White Island explosion off New Zealand last year has risen to 22.

Horst Westenfelder, 64, died in an overseas hospital due to medical complications while receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the blast.

He died on July 2, however his death has now officially been linked to the explosion on December 9, 2019.

"It is unbelievable, how many months my joyful, sensible and strong husband "Horsti", was fighting for his life and I am thankful to everyone who was thinking of us and helping us during that very hard time," his wife Angelika Westenfelder said in a statement on behalf of the family.

"He lost this battle and started his last journey in July.

"It is an irreplaceable loss for our family, his friends and of course for myself.

READ MORE: Melbourne survivor of White Island eruption speaks of grief, anxiety, pain

"In loving memory of a full and exciting life.

"I will always miss you," Mrs Westenfelder said.

Mr Westenfelder was a German national, and there was a coronial inquest into his death.

"In regard to the timing of confirming the death this was done as soon as practically possible following a confirmation of the cause of death, a Coroner's ruling that the death was due to injuries suffered in the explosion and after all relevant parties had been notified," a New Zealand Police spokesperson told Nine.com.au.

New Zealand Police also said its thoughts are with his family, "who have requested privacy as they are still coming to terms with the death of their much-loved husband, father and grandfather."