The chairman of the ski field claims that the death of mountain climber Wednesday Davis on Ruapehu was a freak accident.
The death of mountain climber Wednesday Davis, who was climbing on Ruapehu mountain in the central North Island, was described as a “freak accident” that occurred during a trip with friends.
Davis passed away on Saturday from a fall while climbing. Her friends remembered her as a kind and passionate person who loved the ocean and sea life.
Nigel Seebeck, the chairman of the Tukino Mountain Clubs Association, called Davis’ fall a freak accident, noting that staying safe in the challenging conditions on Ruapehu required a high level of skill.
The NZ Mountain Safety Council expressed condolences to Davis’ loved ones and is collaborating with other authorities to determine the exact circumstances of the accident.
Council chief executive Mike Daisley said they are still working with other authorities to understand the exact circumstances of her accident. They stress the importance of thorough planning, caution regarding variable early season conditions, and the necessity of the correct equipment. Seebeck also advises individuals in a climbing group to consider recent rainfall and ensure that all members have adequate skills.
According to the police report, Davis was part of a group climbing on the eastern side of Mt Ruapehu near Whangaehu Hut when she slipped and fell a significant distance, sustaining serious injuries.
Despite the immediate response from emergency services, the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter, Ruapehu Alpine Rescue Organisation members, and Tukino Ski Field staff, Davis died at the scene.
The other group members are receiving support from Tukino skifield staff and local iwi Ngati Hikairo ke Tongariro.
The University of Auckland Marine Science Society paid tribute to Davis on its Facebook page, describing her as a beautiful person inside and out and expressing deep sadness at her premature passing.
