Media Release

Monday, 28 October,

Fatalities on Mount Taranaki

New Zealand Alpine Club General Manager, Sam Newton has acknowledged the tragic passing of two Auckland Section members, Hiroki Ogawa (31) and Nicole Sutton (29), on Mt. Taranaki.

The pair died high on Mount Taranaki after a 36 hour battle against extremely hostile weather conditions.

“Despite the best efforts of the dedicated and professional SAR teams, Hiroki and Nicole succumbed to the elements.”

“The Auckland Section annual trip to Mount Taranaki is a popular Labour weekend tradition. Mount Taranaki is known for sudden deteriorations in weather and conditions.”

“This is a tragic reminder that Mt Taranaki is New Zealand’s deadliest mountain….achievable for day-trippers one minute and fatal to experienced mountaineers the next.”

“NZAC is grateful to the Police and SAR personnel who acted selflessly and professionally in their response. We thank them for their efforts.”

“In past seasons, Hiroki had volunteered his time to teach basic snowcraft to novice climbers. Apart for his own personal achievements in climbing, which were considerable, he will be remembered by the climbing community as someone who gave back to the grassroots.”

“Nicole was relatively new to mountaineering after gaining a lot of experience as a skier. She was already developing a reputation as someone who had a real passion and enthusiasm for the sport.”

“Our thoughts are with the friends and family of Hiroki and Nicole. A double tragedy of the nature is deeply saddening for the club and its members who know and climbed with them.”

Ends.

Background
The New Zealand Alpine Club was formed in 1891 and aims to promote and support climbing at all levels within New Zealand. The club has over 3200 members, and five full-time staff based at its headquarters in Christchurch. The scope of its activities are broad including publishing, the provision of 17 alpine huts and base lodges, instruction, advocacy, insurance and support for overseas climbing expeditions.

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