A 30-year-old New Zealand man has died today after being caught in an avalanche on the west face of The Remarkables mountain range at Queenstown.
Two experienced climbers were caught in the avalanche which occurred at approximately 8.35am in an area commonly used by rock climbers due to its remoteness from the ski-field.
The 30-year-old man fell 500 metres down the west face of the mountain in an avalanche that was approximately 4 metres wide and 300 to 400mm deep. It swept the climber from his feet, carrying him down a steep face and he was unable to gain control of his descent.
The climber's 34-year-old male companion who was uninjured in the incident managed to reach the man some time later and raise the alarm for emergency assistance.
An emergency response was activated involving The Remarkables ski-field patrol and Police.
Police say the man's name won't be released until next-of-kin have been notified.
ENDS
Released by Sergeant Steve Watt, Queenstown Police