<\/p>\n
\nThe bodies of two climbers were recovered from the north buttress of Sabre Peak in Fiordland National Park.
\nPhoto: Supplied \/ Police\n<\/p>\n
The bodies of two climbers that went missing in Fiordland National Park during the weekend have been recovered.<\/p>\n
Two other climbers are currently overdue on Aoraki Mt Cook.<\/p>\n
The search for the first set of climbers began on Saturday night when the pair did not return from their intended route.<\/p>\n
Police said one body was found that night, but access was difficult due to deteriorating weather.<\/p>\n
The second body was found on Sunday.<\/p>\n
“Both bodies were extracted in what was a difficult and technical rescue,” police said.<\/p>\n
“The north buttress of Sabre Peak, where the bodies were located, is a 500-metre-long route and is on the bucket list of many climbers.<\/p>\n
“One of the deceased was an Australian citizen, the second person was a dual citizen of New Zealand and Canada, residing in Australia.”<\/p>\n
Sergeant Alun Griffiths thanked Wakatipu Alpine Cliff Rescue, the Rescue Coordination Centre, Heliworks and Southern Lakes Helicopters for their roles in a complex and challenging recovery.<\/p>\n
“This is a result nobody wanted, and our thoughts are with their families,” he said.<\/p>\n
“Police are in contact with the families and are offering the necessary support.”<\/p>\n
Formal identification was underway, and the deaths were referred to the coroner.<\/p>\n
Two climbers overdue<\/p>\n
Two climbers are overdue on Aoraki Mt Cook.<\/p>\n
Aoraki Area Commander Inspector Vicki Walker says there are strong winds and rain in the area.<\/p>\n
“Police Search and Rescue, and Department of Conservation Search and Rescue, are working together and will search on the mountain as weather conditions allow,” she said.<\/p>\n