There was a rescue today for two climbers who slipped on ice and went a fair distance over some rough ground. They were just above the Jumbo T at around 2400m. The call came in at around 1120hrs through the National Park Police. Conrad made a couple of quick calls as the Youthtown Trust Rescue Helicopter from Taupo was on route and 2 RARO team members were up lifted from National Park school. Tony, our friendly alpine paramedic, was on board. They team located the injured party drop a heap of gear off at the car park then flew the team up and hover unloaded near the patients. There were 3 others in the group and 2 other climbers who assisted. The patients were assessed and 1 had some bruising to her hip and leg the other had some facial trauma, some abdominal bruising and was in an advanced state of shock. Both patients were assisted to the hover load site and brought down to the car park were the male patient was given IV fluids. He was then transferred to Rotorua hospital for further examination. The rest of the group was air lifted to the car park where they had their vehicles.
They were all fairly well equipped, crampons, ice axe, helmet, etc (staying at the tramping club hut) . I believe the female just lost her footing where as the male lost his foot wear. His foot wear was the only real concern as they were Cat work boot type shoes.
A good job by all involved and very lucky with the weather.
Shots below courtesy of Ross Eden – Top Guides.
