Deceased tourist named

At 5.00pm yesterday a 57 year old American Tourist was reported overdue from a day walk in The Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. 

The man left no intentions with anyone but was seen leaving Mueller Hut at about 1.45pm walking down the poled route on the Ridge. 

An aerial Search by The Helicopter Line and members of the DOC Mountain Rescue Team failed to locate the man in failing light. 

This morning another aerial search was conducted using Thermal Imaging and DOC Rescue Staff. A Search Member spotted the body from the Helicopter in a narrow rocky gorge. The Thermal Imaging equipment indicated there was no sign of life. 

He was recovered by helicopter and strop at full light and flown back to the Emergency Services Building.

His travelling companion who reported him missing was still in the Village, she was upset and being comforted by Victim Support Staff. 

It is believed that he may have missed the turnoff on the track back to Sealy Tarns and continued down a ridge before slipping and falling to his death. 

He had extensive injuries to his body and head. 

There will be no name release until next of Kin have been informed in the USA. 

30 New Zealand Land SAR Volunteers from Tekapo, Omarama and Fairlie were called in overnight ready to search if the Helicopter reconnaissance was unsuccessful. They have since been stood down.

The Sealy Tarn Mueller Hut walk is a popular day and overnight walk for visitors. 

This accident is a reminder that the New Zealand Alpine environment can be unforgiving and it should not be under estimated. 

For further details on the Track, Park and Thermal Imaging contact Area Manager Richard McNamara Aoraki Mt Cook National Park