26 September 2007

Minister says care needs to be taken on Mt Ruapehu

Associate Conservation Minister Mahara Okeroa said the eruption on Mt Ruapehu was a reminder of the mountain’s extreme unpredictability and he urged everyone to exercise caution by staying away from the upper mountain.

“Sadly, a young climber has been seriously injured.

“I urge everyone to follow advice given by experienced staff from both the Department of Conservation and Ruapehu Alpine Lifts over the next few days. For now, that means staying below the upper boundaries of both the Whakapapa and Turoa skifields.”

While the re-opening of the skifields would be reviewed on a daily basis, a “blue sky” eruption such as the one that occurred yesterday meant there was a remote chance of further seismic activity.

The situation would be closely monitored by DoC and Geological Nuclear Science staff over the next five days.

The Minister praised the rescue party of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts and DoC staff who freed injured climber William Pike and got him back down the mountain.

It appeared the Emergency Response Plan, put in place after fears of a major lahar after the 1995 and 1996 eruptions and implemented during last night’s event, had worked well in the current emergency.

“It was an example of great teamwork and dedicated, skilled people coming together to ensure the best outcome possible in the circumstances.”

ENDS

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