2 climbers die after fall on New Zealand's highest peak, 2 others rescued

By Saadet Gokce

ISTANBUL (AA) - Two mountain climbers died Monday night after a fall while attempting to summit New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook, while two others from the same group were rescued, according to a statement from Canterbury Police.

The two climbers, who fell from a ridge near the summit, "were located deceased at around 7 am (1800GMT Monday) this morning," police said.

Authorities were notified Monday night that four climbers needed assistance on the west side of the mountain.

A dispatched helicopter located the two surviving members of the group, who were "airlifted from the mountain at around 2.15 am (1315GMT Monday)."

"The two climbers who were airlifted last night were uninjured, and support is being provided," police added.

Inspector Vicki Walker said the bodies of the deceased have been recovered, according to 1News.

"At this stage, we are working through the coronial jurisdiction to identify and get the family’s loved ones home," Walker added.

Aoraki is New Zealand's highest peak at 3.7 kilometers (2.2 miles) and is found in the Southern Alps.