Adventure course in no rush to reopen after death fall

Clifford Brabet. Photo / Supplied

An adventure course where an Auckland grandfather fell to his death remains closed and there is no plan set for reopening.

Clifford Paul Brabet fell after stepping from a platform while taking part in a team-building day at Tree Adventures in Woodhill Forest near Helensville on March 3.

Company spokesman Simon Moore told the Herald that reopening was not his main priority.

"Our priority at this time is assisting the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment with their investigation as well as supporting our staff through this difficult time," Mr Moore said. "At this stage we do not have a set date to reopen."

Mr Moore said he was extremely proud of how the Tree Adventures team had coped with the tragedy.

After Mr Brabet died police also launched an investigation to establish whether any crime was committed.

A spokesman said yesterday that police had handed the case over to the ministry as there was no criminal element to the incident.

Ministry spokesman Britton Broun said no further information about the incident could be released.

Among the supporters of Tree Adventures was Adrenalin Forest, who operate similar courses in Christchurch, Wellington and Bay of Plenty.

"The team from Adrenalin Forest would like to send our thoughts and deepest regrets out to both the Brabet family and the Tree Adventures crew.

"This is certainly a tragic event that has occurred and we feel for all involved," they wrote on the Tree Adventures Facebook page.

They had worked closely with Tree Adventures over the past six months to moderate and improve the safety within their industry.

"With adventure activities there is always an element of risk, this is what makes them adventure activities.

"We all strive to assess, eliminate and manage all risks involved in these activities to provide the safest experience possible.

"But if we removed all risk - if possible - would they then provide the same experience?" they wrote.

"Again to the Brabet family we are deeply sorry for your loss and our thoughts are with your family and friends."