Missing skier located deceased

A 25 year old skier reported missing from National Park on Saturday afternoon has been located deceased at the bottom of a rocky area on Mount Ruapehu known as the 'Pinnacles'.

The man, a European visitor to New Zealand, who was last seen on Thursday was located late on Sunday afternoon by the Taupo Rescue Helicopter and members of the Ruapehu Alpine Rescue Organisation.

Searching for the missing skier was made difficult due to the treacherous terrain and unsettled weather conditions.

Initial indications are that the man strayed into an area of steep slopes and rocky terrain where he has fallen.

He has been taken to Taumaranui Hospital for a Post Mortem examination and the matter has been referred to the Coroner.

Release of the man's name will not be made until his next-of-kin in Europe have been notified.