In brief
Authorities have announced their presumption of death for three climbers missing on Aoraki/Mount Cook due to severe conditions and lack of communication.
In a somber announcement made on Friday, December 6, 2024, New Zealand authorities have reported that they believe three climbers who went missing on Aoraki/Mount Cook, the country's highest peak, are likely deceased. Commander Inspector Vicki Walker of New Zealand Police confirmed the suspension of the search efforts for the climbers, who included two Americans, Kurt Blair, 56, and Carlos Romero, 50, alongside an unidentified Canadian.The climbers had arrived in New Zealand and began their ascent on Saturday, hoping to reach the 12,000-foot summit before a charter flight departure scheduled for Monday morning. However, when they failed to return as planned, rescuers initiated a search operation. Unfortunately, the search was impeded by extreme weather conditions.Throughout the search, rescuers located several items, including a jacket, an ice ax, and energy gels, believed to belong to the trio. Footprints near Zurbriggen Ridge were also discovered, adding to the evidence that the climbers might have encountered serious trouble. Walker stated, "After reviewing the number of days the climbers have been missing, the absence of any communication, the items we have retrieved, and our reconnaissance today, we unfortunately do not believe the men have survived." Both Kurt Blair and Carlos Romero were recognized as certified guides within the American Mountain Guides Association, showcasing their professional experience in skiing and climbing.
