Woman dies after Mt Ruapehu climbing accident

A person has died after a climbing accident on Mt Ruapehu today. Photo / File

One person has died after a climbing incident on Mt Ruapehu today.

About 11am, a group of people were climbing on the eastern side of Mt Ruapehu, near Whangaehu Hut.

During the climb, a woman in the group slipped and fell a significant distance, suffering serious injuries, police have said tonight.

Emergency services, the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter, members of the Ruapehu Alpine Rescue Organisation, and Tukino Ski Field staff responded immediately.

“Sadly, despite their best efforts, the woman died at the scene,” police said in a statement.

The other members of the group are being supported by police, Tukino Ski Field and local iwi Ngati Hikairo ke Tongariro.

“Our thoughts are with the woman’s family and climbing companions at this difficult time,” said police.

“A rahui is in place for the easter slopes of Mt Ruapehu above 2000m, until 6am on Tuesday 2 July.”

Taupo Police Search and Rescue would like to thank all those who responded this morning, said Sergeant Shane McNally says.

“This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with those involved,” said McNally.

“While the matter is still under investigation, we cannot reiterate enough the importance of understanding the alpine environment and being prepared mentally and physically for this unforgiving environment.”