Five climbers have been injured, one critically, after a group got into trouble on Mt Taranaki and needed rescue by helicopter in a "significant search and rescue operation" yesterday.
Emergency services received reports of a group of climbers in trouble, with one under CPR, on the maunga at around 2.15pm on Sunday.
Acting Sergeant David Bentley said a search and rescue operation was stood up, with assistance from RCCNZ, LandSAR, Alpine Cliff Rescue and Civil Defence, and a number of helicopter companies.
The helicopters called in to assist with rescue efforts were unable to reach the summit of the mountain, he said.
"Rescue teams on the ground also began to climb up the mountain towards the group."
The first climber, in a critical condition when rescue teams arrived, was airlifted from the mountain at around 6.20pm, with the remainder of the group taken off by 6.50pm.
Bentley said the group were lucky to be alive.
"The weather improved for a period long enough for us to get helicopters into the area and rescue the climbers," he said.
"We were in and out very quickly and, had it not been for that break in the weather, there was a very good chance we would have been dealing with fatalities."
Hato Hone St John said two people were taken to Taranaki Hospital by helicopter with another taken by ambulance. All three were in a serious condition, St John said.
Two other members of the group received moderate injuries.
NZ Mountain Safety Council chief executive Mike Daisley said the council's thoughts were with the injured and their families.
"We hope for the best outcome and a speedy recovery."
Summit climb a 'serious undertaking'
It was not yet known what trail the group had attempted but footage taken by the Taranaki Rescue Helicopter Trust showed rescuers were focused on a rugged area near the summit.
Daisley said the popular Summit Climb was a "serious undertaking that should not be underestimated".
"While a day hike, it’s both technically and physically difficult, and conditions can change extremely quickly as it is an alpine environment," he said.
"This is an expert route that is undefined and exposed, involving scrambling over rocks, scree slopes and steep drop-offs. Any small mistake can have major consequences. It should only be attempted by experienced trampers with proper equipment and in good weather conditions."
Daisley said it was vital that people planned carefully before hiking, including monitoring weather, packing for all conditions, carrying a communication device and choosing the right trip.
"It’s never too late to change your plans. The mountains will always be there for another day. The top priority should be making it home safe."
SHARE ME