Two New Zealand skiers are confirmed to have died in an avalanche in Japan's Hokkaido, near the popular ski resort of Niseko.
Japanese media reports the group of six were skiing on Mt Yotei in Hokkaido when the avalanche hit.
Emergency services were called to help the group at around 11am yesterday, it’s believed the avalanche started at around 10am.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has confirmed to 1News that two Kiwis were killed.
Two New Zealanders were killed on Mt Yotei in Hokkaido. (Source: NHK) (Source: Supplied)
A spokesperson said: “The New Zealand Embassy has offered consular support to the families of those involved.”
Reports of weather in the area indicated it was warmer than usual, which would have led to the snow softening and becoming more prone to avalanches. Another avalanche was reported nearby in Iwaonupuri, where another skier suffered a broken leg.
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