<\/p>\n
\nPhoto: RNZ\/Carol Stiles\n<\/p>\n
A r\u0101hui is in place in part of the Tongariro National Park after a death on Friday.<\/p>\n
Police said a man became unresponsive while walking the Taranaki Falls Track.<\/p>\n
“Despite efforts from those who were walking with the man and a passerby, he sadly died at the scene,” a spokesperson said.<\/p>\n
“The death is not being treated as suspicious and has been referred to the coroner.”<\/p>\n
The local hap\u016b, Ng\u0101ti Hikairo ki Tongariro, has placed a r\u0101hui on the Taranaki Falls and Tama Lakes tracks until 6am on Tuesday 30 December.<\/p>\n
To show respect, all hikers in the area were asked to consider using alternative tracks during the r\u0101hui.<\/p>\n
This r\u0101hui will also affect those wishing to hike the Tongariro Northern Circuit between Whakapapa Village and Waihohonu Hut.<\/p>\n
“With deep respect and sadness, we acknowledge a recent passing within Tongariro National Park,” the hap\u016b said in a statement shared by the Department of Conservation.<\/p>\n
“Ng\u0101ti Hikairo ki Tongariro offers aroha to the wh\u0101nau and recognises the significance of this loss within our rohe.”<\/p>\n
Guiding and transport operators for the Taranaki Falls and Tama Lakes tracks have also been made aware of the r\u0101hui.<\/p>\n