Three trampers called for help late on Sunday 23rd October, stuck near Lyell Peak and Avalanche Peak in Arthur’s Pass. The trampers were uninjured, but out of their depth.
Garden City Helicopters (GCH) attempted 7 times to access the stranded party at 2300hrs late on Sunday night but were unable to reach the party due to strong winds.
Alpine Rescue Canterbury was tasked to go in the morning, however, knowing that the wind chill was significant and the stranded party had no shelter or spare clothes, our team decided to set off immediately and climb through the night.
Our field team of Keith, Simon and Anna quickly assembled, and departed Christchurch at 0100hrs arriving in Arthur’s Pass at 0315hrs.
Team member Michael worked with the IMT in Christchurch.
The field team hiked up Scott’s track towards Avalanche Peak, with some serious wind gusts on the ridgeline. They traversed under Avalanche peak on snowfields and some scree across to Lyell Peak area.
The party of 3 trampers were located around 0640hrs, cold and fatigued. Our team provided warm clothes, hot food and drink & shelter to assist warming.
The trampers were only equipped with day walking apparel and did not have crampons or ice axes. A judgement call was made given the party’s state and deteriorating weather to request helicopter evacuation.
Due to strong winds up high, the trampers needed to be assisted to lower more sheltered ground to allow for a helicopter hover load. The trampers were flown to Arthur’s Pass village, followed by our team.
It’s a timely reminder to always check the weather, bring enough warm clothing, and start early to avoid being caught out.
When there is a forecasted weather change, people should be mindful of the consequences and helicopter extracts are generally not possible or timely.
A successful outcome for this party. The trampers should be commended for their perseverance surviving a very cold night in harsh conditions, with no doubt many important lessons learnt for their future trips in the mountains.
Alpine Rescue Canterbury 