A Canadian is among three climbers who went missing after they planned to scale New Zealand’s highest peak.
A New Zealand police news release said two Americans, Kurt Blair, 56, and Carlos Romero, 50, and an unnamed Canadian flew to Plateau Hut on Saturday morning and planned to summit Aoraki, also known as Mount Cook.
But the release said they did not meet the flight they had planned for Monday morning, and it was reported that it was late.
It says detectives have found several items related to the hike that are believed to belong to the three men.
Get the latest country news
For news that affects Canada and the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you as they happen.
Police said the name and any other information about the Canadian will not be released until they confirm family notifications have been made.
The statement says the weather may prevent the search until Thursday, but police will continue to monitor and assess the situation.
“Police have been working with the US and Canadian embassies to inform and support the families of the three men,” said Inspector Vicki Walker, Aoraki Area Commander, in a statement.
Blair, from Colorado and Romero, from California – are certified alpine guides, according to the American Mountain Guides Association website.
Aoraki is 3,724 meters high and is part of the Southern Alps, a beautiful and snowy mountain range that runs the length of New Zealand’s South Island. The residence of the same name in its area is a destination for domestic and foreign tourists.
The peak is popular among experienced climbers. The terrain is technically difficult due to crevasses, avalanche danger, changing weather and ice movement.
More than 240 people have died on this mountain and in the surrounding reserves since the beginning of the 20th century.
– With files from AP
© 2024 The Canadian Press
