Four deaths in four days a shocking start to summer, says New Zealand Mountain Safety Council
Saturday 10 December 2011, 8:15PM
By New Zealand Mountain Safety Council
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The deaths of four people in four days in the outdoors is a shocking start to the summer season says New Zealand Mountain Safety Council Chief Executive Darryl Carpenter.
On Friday, two female tourists, a 20-year-old woman from China and a 23-year-old woman from Malaysia, were killed after being swept down the Waiho river while walking at night near Franz Josef.
A Nelson retiree aged 63 from fell to his death while he and a group of two other trampers were negotiating difficult terrain in the Kahurangi National Park on Friday night.
On Tuesday night, Police recovered the body of a Richmond man and experienced tramper, believed to have drowned while attempting a river crossing in Mount Richmond Forest Park.
All four deaths have been referred to the coroner.
“We are saddened by these tragic deaths. They are a sombre reminder of the need to be thoroughly prepared when going into the outdoors and to take extreme caution - especially when crossing rivers,” says Mr Carpenter.
“Mountain Safety Council will be working with search and rescue agencies, NZ Police and the coronial enquiries to establish what happened and any lessons that can be learnt. We will ensure any outcomes are communicated to the outdoor community in New Zealand and international visitors.
“Anyone going into the outdoors needs to plan well, to be aware of the dangers and have the skills needed for a safe and enjoyable experience. Thorough preparation and careful decision-making is essential to keep people out of danger.
“We urge people to take responsibility for their own and others’ safety. We cannot overemphasise the importance of people following the Outdoor Safety Code. These five simple, easy-to-remember rules could well save your life and that of your travelling companions.
“As hosts, we have a particular responsibility to help visitors to our country understand and prepare for local conditions. Overseas visitors often participate in activities or encounter terrain and weather conditions that differ markedly from those they are used to.
“Taking responsibility for safety has never been easier with the launch of the AdventureSmart.org.nz website by leading outdoor organisations and government agencies earlier this year.
“Here, anyone can access safety information and planning support for a wide range of land, snow, water, boating and air activities at one online location.
“You can also complete the Outdoor Intentions process online. Telling someone your plans - and leaving a date and time for when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned - is a simple and potentially life-saving step.
“Before going on a trip into the outdoors make sure you plan and prepare fully. Use the website AdventureSmart.org.nz. Seek advice from an experienced guide with local knowledge. Talk to Department of Conservation staff, your local Mountain Safety Council branch or tramping club.
“These holidays, we want people’s outdoor experience to be the best of memories, not the worst. Take care, plan well, act wisely and ensure a safe and enjoyable trip,” says Mr Carpenter.