Story perspectives

Beginner Mountaineer Dies on Ruapehu; Coroner Urges Snowcraft Training

5/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Coroner Matthew Bates said a beginner mountaineer lacking self-arrest training had no chance on the near-impenetrable ice slope.
Wednesday Davis died on Mt Ruapehu on June 29, 2024 after a helicopter could not revive her.
Group leader Guy Pryor, with intermediate alpine experience, misjudged hard-ice conditions and led the party down the ridge.
Bates recommended a basic snowcraft course for all aspiring alpine mountaineers and endorsed the Mountain Safety Council’s Mt Ruapehu safety recommendations.

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Story summary

Coroner Matthew Bates said a beginner mountaineer lacking self-arrest training had no chance on the near-impenetrable ice slope.
Wednesday Davis died on Mt Ruapehu on June 29, 2024 after a helicopter could not revive her.
Group leader Guy Pryor, with intermediate alpine experience, misjudged hard-ice conditions and led the party down the ridge.
Bates recommended a basic snowcraft course for all aspiring alpine mountaineers and endorsed the Mountain Safety Council’s Mt Ruapehu safety recommendations.