Update on Fox Glacier situation

One body remains buried under an icefall at Fox Glacier.
The second significant ice collapse that occurred just upstream from the original collapse remains in place. As a result the volume of water flowing though the original site has dramatically reduced. Up until 8.00am this morning there has been little movement in the icefall.
The ice cliffs above the site remain too unstable and unsafe to recommence an active search of the icefall.
The weather in the area is likely to be fine for the rest of the week.
With the combination of the current river flow and weather forecast it is anticipated that there will be little change in the situation in the near future.
The Police are working closely with Doc and Fox Glacier Guides and will continually be assessing the situation. At present DoC staff will be visiting the site on a daily basis to monitor the situation. If there is any significant change in ice structure the response will be reassessed.
The Police understand that there is a significant amount of media and public interest about this incident but can not field any further phone calls from individual media agencies. The volume of calls is preventing the Police from providing a service to the communities in the area. Your cooperation regarding this will be highly appreciated.
An update will issued as soon as there is any significant change in the circumstances of this tragedy.

Tony LeSueur
Constable
Hokitika Police

Issued By: Inspector Alan Weston