Search for Missing Climbers Halted by Weather
New Zealand’s tallest peak, Aoraki/Mt. Cook, has claimed another chapter in its storied and dangerous history. Three climbers—two Americans and one Canadian—have been reported missing after failing to return from a weekend ascent, according to New Zealand police.
Kurt Blair, 56, from Colorado, and Carlos Romero, 50, from California, were experienced alpine guides certified by the American Mountain Guides Association. The Canadian climber, whose name has not been released, awaits formal family notification.
The trio flew to a hut on Saturday, intending to begin their climb from there. When they missed their prearranged transport pickup on Monday, concerns were raised, prompting an immediate search effort. Search and Rescue (SAR) teams discovered climbing gear and personal items linked to the men, but no sign of the climbers themselves.
Images Silverton Avalanche School Facebook
Weather Closes In
Tuesday’s worsening weather—a brutal mix of heavy rain and snow—forced a halt to search efforts. Police stated that conditions are unlikely to improve until Thursday, leaving rescuers grounded. The challenging alpine environment of Aoraki, with its ever-shifting weather, crevasses, and risk of avalanches, remains one of the most formidable in the Southern Hemisphere.
Standing at 3,724 meters, Aoraki is part of the stunning Southern Alps range, a magnet for seasoned climbers worldwide. But its beauty masks a deadly record.
“More than 240 people have lost their lives
on Aoraki and in its surrounding
national park since the early 20th century.”
The Colorado-based Silverton Avalanche School shared grim news on Facebook, indicating that authorities believe the climbers suffered a fatal fall.
Images Silverton Avalanche School Facebook
“Gear and equipment found from the party has helped SAR piece together the tragedy,” the post read. “Remote, technical, and heavily glaciated terrain, combined with deteriorating weather, has prevented recovery of the climbers.”
Thye went on to sayu “Kurt Blair, one of the missing climbers, was well-known in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, not only for his alpine skills but also for his calm, humble demeanor. After earning his International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA) certification in 2022, Blair built a reputation as a trusted guide and mentor”.
“Kurt was the nicest guy you’d ever share a rope, trail, or skin track with,” the Silverton Avalanche School wrote. “His humility, competence, and polite nature made him a client and student favorite.”
Images Silverton Avalanche School Facebook
“Blair leaves behind a family, including two sons, and a grieving mountain community. Plans for a celebration of his life will be shared in the weeks ahead”
With search efforts temporarily on hold, the families and loved ones of the missing climbers face an agonising wait for closure.
