A set of initials engraved on the handle of an ice axe has solved the mystery of a 12-year old mountain tragedy in Mount Cook National Park.
The ice axe was found with human remains by two climbers on the Neish Glacier on Wednesday.
Through the initials, the remains have been identified as those of David Cooke, of Wellington.
Mr Cooke, aged 40, was reported missing on February 11 1989 when he was climbing in the Southern Alps from Godley Hut to Sealy Pass.
Extensive aerial and ground searching was carried out at the time with no trace of Mr Cooke or his property being found, Constable Greg Sutherland of the Twizel Police said.
He was identified from the items of property found with the remains.An ice axe with initials engraved in the handle was a key to the identification.
Mr Cooke had borrowed the axe from a friend for the trip.
- CHRISTCHURCH STAR
Mountain climber's body identified
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