In brief
New Zealand police announced on Friday that the search for three climbers, who went missing while attempting to summit Aoraki/Mount Cook, is suspended with authorities believing all three are likely deceased.
In the vicinity of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand, authorities have come to a somber conclusion regarding three climbers reported missing during their ascent to the country's highest peak. The missing climbers include Americans Kurt Blair, 56, and Carlos Romero, 50, alongside an unidentified Canadian, all of whom embarked on their climbing expedition last Saturday. A planned charter flight meant to transport them from the mountain on Monday never took place—raising alarms about their safety. Explorations commenced on Monday, facing significant challenges due to inclement weather. Throughout the search, rescuers previously discovered personal items believed to belong to the climbers, including a jacket and ice ax. Notably, on Friday, search teams also identified footprints and additional gear near the treacherous Zurbriggen Ridge slope. Commander Inspector Vicki Walker of the New Zealand Police conveyed in a statement: "After reviewing the number of days the climbers have been missing, no communication, the items we have retrieved, and our reconnaissance today, we do not believe the men have survived.” It has been confirmed that both Americans were qualified guides in ski and alpine climbing, as per the American Mountain Guides Association. The families of the missing climbers have been informed of the situation.
