Helicopters Still Unable To Reach Climbers
New Zealand Police National News Release
3 December 2008
A helicopter left Mt Cook this morning at 5.30am as a window opened in the weather but it was unable to get near the
site where it is believed two Japanese climbers are 'holed up' in a tent.
Inspector Dave Gaskin says the winds were very strong and it was not possible to get close.
"We have to wait for the weather to improve," he says. "We have helicopters and teams on standby but unfortunately the
weather is not meant to improve until Saturday."
"We have considered all the possibilities but it is just not safe to send a helicopter into the area. The weather is not
forecast to clear until Friday but still with a strong southerly wind. Saturday may be our earliest opportunity," he
says.
ENDS