Two climbers tragically lost their lives while climbing the highest peak in New Zealand. The incident occurred on Monday night as they were completing a grand traverse of Aoraki/Mount Cook. One of the climbers was a qualified mountain guide, and the other was their client. The New Zealand Mountain Guides Association reported that the fatal fall happened around 11.50pm on Monday.
The climbers were part of a group of four, consisting of two guides and two clients, all attempting the route together. The other two members of the team made it down safely from the summit ridge, as confirmed by the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council.
Although the guide has not been officially identified by the police, it is known that they were a significant figure in the guiding community. The organization is providing support to their partner and children during this challenging time. The Chief Executive of the Mountain Safety Council, Mike Daisley, mentioned that this time of year is busy with many climbers heading to the mountains.
The recent good weather has attracted numerous mountaineers to the high alpine region, with several guided and recreational teams successfully summiting Aoraki/Mount Cook in the past week. The mountain’s current conditions are considered ideal for mountaineering, with solid overnight snow and well-filled glaciers following early spring snowstorms.
The President of the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association, Anna Keeling, paid tribute to the guide, emphasizing their importance within the guiding community. The focus is now on supporting the affected family, including the partner and children, as well as the wider guiding community during this difficult period.
These tragic deaths serve as a stark reminder of the risks associated with mountaineering. In a similar incident in December 2024, three climbers, including two guides from the US and Canada, perished while climbing Aoraki/Mt Cook, and their bodies were never recovered. Daisley highlighted the high-consequence environment of alpine mountains, especially the highest peak, stating that even the most qualified professionals cannot eliminate all risks.
A formal investigation into the incident will be conducted in due course by the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association. Keeling expressed that there will be an opportunity to understand and share more about the tragic accident. Both the Mountain Safety Council and the Mountain Guides Association extend their heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and the broader alpine and guiding community.