Climber survives 600 metre fall in New Zealand

A climber survived a 600 metre fall down the side of one of New Zealand's most dangerous mountains, local police announced on Monday.

2023-09-11

The man, who was part of a group of climbers, was approaching the snow-covered summit of Mount Taranaki in New Zealand’s North Island when he lost his balance and slipped.

Cited by the AFP news agency, police officer Vaughan Smith said that the climber suffered minor injuries.

“The spring weather, which softened the ice, may have supported the climber’s fall. The man was exceptionally lucky to be alive,” said Smith. “These are challenging areas and when things go wrong there are serious consequences,” he added.