Canterbury Police SAR can confirm that the body of the climber who fell on the north side of the east ridge of Aoraki Mt Cook on Saturday (13 December 2014) has been recovered. He has been formally identified as 28 year old Stuart Douglas Cargill HASLETT.
Stuart was an experienced climber and has called Mt Cook village home for the last 3 months where he was a seasonal mountaineer, employed by the Department of Conservation (DOC) as part of the Aoraki Alpine Rescue Team.
DOC spokesperson, Conservation Services Director Andy Roberts said “our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Stu’s family, partner, friends and colleagues here at Aoraki.”
The death has been referred to the Coroner. Next of kin have been informed and are understandably very upset. They have been offered support from Victim Support.
A police investigation into what led to the fatal incident is ongoing.
A family spokesperson said “The family would like to thank everyone involved in the recovery of Stuart from the mountain but ask media respect our request for privacy while we work through this tragic event and come to terms with the fact he is not coming home for Christmas.“
A spokesperson from Aoraki Alpine Rescue Team said “ Stuart was a valued member of the community , he was an experienced climber and much loved member of the team. He enjoyed spending time in the Southern Alps and was always professional, courteous and friendly no matter what the circumstances. He will be sadly missed and our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Canterbury Rural Area Commander (Mid South), Inspector Dave Gaskin says “The recovery operation went as planned yesterday (14 December 2014) and despite cloud cover in the morning the climber and his belongings were recovered safely. On behalf of Canterbury Police I would like to commend the professionalism of all of those involved in this SAR response including the Wanaka LandSAR Alpine Rescue Team, Aspiring Helicopters (Wanaka), Alpine Guides Limited (Mt Cook), Aoraki Alpine Rescue Team (DOC), Heli Line Helicopters (Mt Cook) and the community at Mt Cook village.”
“While this is a tragic start to the climbing season in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park incidents such as these are very rare when experienced climbers are involved. Our thoughts are with Stuart’s partner, family, friends and colleagues at this very sad and tragic time.”
No further details will be release regarding this on-going investigation.
ENDS
Media Note: Please txt LM on 021 942 404 if you would like to interview someone from Police to talk to this release between 9-10am today (15 December 2014)
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404