Injured climber rescued on Taranaki Maunga

A personal locator beacon (PLB) has been credited for saving the life of an injured climber on Taranaki Maunga today.

Police Search and Rescue incident controller Acting Sergeant David Bentley said the climber activated his PLB about 9.50am after he fell in snow and rocks above the ski field and was unable to move.

A coordinated rescue effort was launched involving police, the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ), RTB Heli, St John, Ruapehu Alpine Rescue, a member of the public, and the Taranaki Alpine Rescue team.

Taranaki Alpine Rescue made their way to the climber on foot to stabilise and prepare him for extraction, before he was airlifted by helicopter to Taranaki Base Hospital.

The climber was in a stable condition.

The rescue took place in challenging weather conditions, and took five hours.

Sergeant Bentley said that because the climber was carrying a PLB and used it when he needed to, rescuers were able to locate him quickly.

"The climber did all the right things.

"This was a complex operation in poor weather, and it highlights how challenging it can be to assist people on the mountain when conditions deteriorate.

"If you're heading into remote terrain, make sure you're well prepared. Check conditions, tell someone your plans, and carry the right gear."