A woman has died following a climbing incident on Mount Ruapehu this morning.
Police say a group of people were climbing on the eastern side of Mount Ruapehu, near Whangaehu Hut, when a woman in the group slipped and fell around 11am.
The woman sustained "serious injuries" after falling a "significant distance", Sergeant Shane McNally said.
Emergency services, the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter, members of the Ruapehu Alpine Rescue Organisation, and Tukino Ski Field staff responded immediately.
"Sadly, despite their best efforts, the woman died at the scene."
The other members of the group are being supported by police, Tukino Ski Field, and local iwi Ngāti Tūwharetoa ki Tongariro.
"Our thoughts are with the woman’s family and climbing companions at this difficult time,"McNally said.
A rahui is in place for the easter slopes of Mount Ruapehu above 2000m until 6am on Tuesday, July 2.
“Taupō Police Search and Rescue would like to thank all those that responded this morning,” he said.
“This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with those involved.
“While the matter is still under investigation, we cannot reiterate enough the importance of understanding the alpine environment and being prepared mentally and physically for this unforgiving environment.”
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