Media Release

Monday, 4 November, 2013

New Zealand Alpine Club announces independent review of fatalities on Mt. Taranaki.

New Zealand Alpine Club President, John Cocks has today announced the establishment of an independent review of the Club trip to Mt Taranaki, on which Hiroki Ogawa and Nicole Sutton tragically passed away.

“The tragic loss of Hiroki Ogawa and Nicole Sutton whilst on a Club trip has initiated an independent review of the incident and how the Club conducts its trips,” said Mr Cocks.

“Since its inception in 1891, members of NZAC have teamed up to go climbing together. Climbing is a high risk activity, yet attracts many who wish to explore and share experiences in the mountains. Club trips provide opportunity for such people to develop as climbers.”

“In recent years, providing for the safety of those involved with the Club has been of increasing importance to us. Yet this tragedy is a stark reminder that more must be done. A key objective of the review is to establish what more can be done to support the safety and wellbeing of our members.”

“The suffering of Hiroki’s and Nicole’s families is a driver for an exhaustive review.”

“The Club members who were on the trip are grieving. The Club is working to assist them, and acknowledges the commitment of their fellow members in rallying to provide support, and the gallant efforts of the rescue team under extreme circumstances.”

The terms of reference for the independent review will be finalised this week, before the selection of an appropriately qualified and independent review team.

Background

The New Zealand Alpine Club was formed in 1891 and aims to promote and support climbing at all levels within New Zealand. The club has over 3200 members, ten regional sections and five full-time staff based at its headquarters in Christchurch. The scope of its activities are broad including publishing, the provision of 17 alpine huts and base lodges, instruction, advocacy, insurance and support for overseas climbing expeditions.

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