2 Japan climbers die on NZ mountain: Media

Wellington, Jan 25: Two Japanese climbers fell about half a kilometre to their deaths as they descended New Zealand's highest mountain, Mount Cook, media reported.

A third member of the climbing club group, a 28 year-old man, survived yesterday's accident on the 3,750-metre mountain and raised the alarm.

The New Zealand Press Association, quoting police, said the 53-year-old man and 31-year-old woman tumbled some 450-500 metres after a rock the three climbers were anchored to gave way.

It said a falling rock appeared to have sliced the survivor's ropes, separating him from his companions and saving him from being pulled down with them.

The bodies of the climbers have been recovered but their identities have not been released until next of kin in Japan have been informed.

REUTERS >