Search and rescue operation under way on Aoraki Mt Cook after climbers overdue

A search and rescue operation is under way on Aoraki/Mt Cook this afternoon. Photo / George Heard

A search and rescue operation this afternoon for three climbers on Aoraki Mt Cook was forced to pause because of the weather conditions.

The three men, who were attempting to summit, were due to complete their climb at 8.30am today but did not meet their prearranged transport, police said.

A missing persons report was filed 12.45pm today.

“Police search and rescue and Department of Conservation search and rescue are working together to locate the three men,” a police spokesperson said.

A helicopter and specialist search and rescue personnel have been searching on the mountain this afternoon, police said.

The search has had to pause due to weather conditions in the area and will resume when weather conditions allow.

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