Canterbury Police SAR are retrieving the body of the climber who fell on the north side of the east ridge of Aoraki Mt Cook yesterday (13 December 2014).
A four strong alpine rescue team (inc pilot) from Wanaka have flown directly to the scene this morning. They have established a staging post near Cinerama Col and are currently working at the scene. A fixed long-line is being used to deploy one of the team who will complete a scene examination before undertaking the safe recovery of the man and his belongings.
The death has been referred to the Coroner. No details of the deceased man will be released until formal identification has taken place and next of kin are fully informed.
A police investigation is underway into the fatal incident.
There is medium high cloud at Mt Cook village today, but the weather at the scene is described as clear and sunny. Estimated flying time from the scene to Mt Cook Emergency Centre is approximately 10-15 minutes. However their return may be delayed until cloud clears at Mt Cook village.
No further release will be made until the recovery has been completed.
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404