The families of the climbers mourn the loss of experienced mountaineers, with tributes highlighting their skills and adventurous spirits.
Three Climbers Missing on New Zealand's Aoraki Mt Cook Believed Dead
Three Climbers Missing on New Zealand's Aoraki Mt Cook Believed Dead
Authorities conclude search efforts for three climbers lost atop New Zealand's tallest peak as harsh weather conditions impede rescue operations.
Police in New Zealand have communicated their belief that three climbers, who recently went missing on Aoraki Mt Cook, are presumed dead. The climbers—Americans Kurt Blair, aged 56, and Carlos Romero, aged 50, along with an unnamed Canadian—were reported missing after they failed to make a scheduled flight from the mountain on Monday.
According to Inspector Vicki Walker, the area commander for Aoraki, the men likely fell while crossing a ridge. Ongoing search operations utilizing helicopters and drones encountered significant obstacles due to severe weather conditions. Despite these challenges, drone footage has revealed signs indicating where the climbers may have attempted to navigate the slopes beneath the Zurbriggen Ridge, including visible footprints and personal items such as clothing and energy gels.
The climb via the Zurbriggen Ridge is categorized as a Grade Four trek by Climb NZ, requiring considerable mountaineering expertise and sound judgment. Both Blair and Romero were noted for their extensive climbing backgrounds. A tribute from Colorado's Silverton Avalanche School honored Blair, recognizing him as a cherished part of the San Juan mountains community, with colleagues emphasizing his calm presence amid the demands of mountain guiding.
Meanwhile, Romero, affectionately known as "Kique," was remembered by the California-based group SWS Mountain Guides as an esteemed guide and mentor, celebrated for his guiding skills and passion for climbing. Reports indicate that Romero, originally from Venezuela, had a history working at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California.
Authorities have opted to withhold the identity of the Canadian climber out of respect for his family's privacy. With its peak soaring to 3,724 meters (12,217 feet), Mt Cook remains a formidable challenge for climbers worldwide, attracting adventurers from across the globe.
