Woman dies after serious climbing accident on Mt Ruapehu in New Zealand

One person died on June 29 while climbing Mount Ruapehu in New Zealand. At about 11am a group of people were climbing the eastern side of Mount Ruapehu, near the Whangaehu Hut. While climbing, a woman in the group slipped and fell from a great height, sustaining serious injuries, police said this evening.

Emergency services, the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter, members of the Ruapehu Mountain Rescue Organisation and staff from Tukino Ski Centre responded immediately “Unfortunately, despite all efforts, the woman died on the spot,” local police said in a press release. The remaining group members are supported by police, Tukino Ski Field and local iwi Ngati Hikairo ke Tongariro.

“Our thoughts are with the woman’s family and fellow climbers at this difficult time,” Taupo police said in a statement. “Rahui is in force for the eastern slopes of Mount Ruapehu above 2000m above sea level and will last until 6am on Tuesday 2 July.”

Sergeant Shane McNally said Taupo Police’s search and rescue team would like to thank everyone who responded this morning. “This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with those involved,” McNally said. “While the case is still under investigation, we cannot emphasize enough how important it is to understand the alpine environment and to prepare mentally and physically for this unforgiving environment.”

Mount Ruapehu is located on New Zealand’s North Island at an elevation of 2,797 metres (9,176 ft). There are three ski areas on Mount Ruapehu, Whakapapa on the northern side, Turoa on the southern side and Tukino on the eastern side where the accident occurred.

You may also like: