Canterbury Police are currently leading a SAR operation from the Mt Cook Emergency Centre to rescue a climber who is reported to have fallen on the north side of the east ridge on Aoraki Mt Cook.
A group of climbers raised the alarm shortly at approximately 7.30am by radio this morning after one of their team is reported to have fallen while they were traversing the east ridge. There are no reports of anyone else being injured at this stage.
SAR personnel from the Aoraki Alpine Rescue Team are currently establishing a staging area near Katies Col.
Canterbury Police are leading a SAR team that includes the Aoraki Alpine Rescue Team who are all DOC staff, Heli Line Helicopters based at Mt Cook and support is being requested from Westpac Helicopter.
Weather in Mt Cook village is overcast with low cloud however the climbers are understood to be above cloud level in clear conditions.
At this stage there are no further details available but more information will be released as the rescue operation progresses.
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404