The tragic death of a young hiker on Mt Ruapehu in June 2024 is a reminder to other trampers to plan ahead and be prepared to change those plans.

Coroner Matthew Bates found 26-year-old Wednesday Davis sustained a fatal injury after falling 250m in alpine terrain while hiking to Whangaehu Hut in challenging icy conditions. In his findings, released in May, he said that although Davis was a fit and experienced tramper, she was a beginner at mountaineering. She had received only basic instruction on using crampons the day before her death, and had never learned how to self-arrest.

The group she hiked with failed to see a Mountain Safety Council warning about hard icy conditions ahead. These conditions turned an easy climb into a place they never should have ventured. Bates found it would have been “very unlikely” for even an experienced mountaineer to stop their slide where Davis fell, because of the impenetrable ice.

The following safety recommendations from the Mountain Safety Council, and endorsed by Coroner Bates, are intended to prevent similar tragedies in future:

• Beginners need to complete formal training with an alpine professional in a controlled setting before heading into alpine terrain.
• Research the route thoroughly, understand the hazards and skills that are required, and ensure all members of your tramping group can meet these. 
• Check the conditions and monitor them closely, especially in alpine zones, as these can change quickly. Be prepared to change your plans and turn around.
• Establish effective group dynamics with shared decision-making and open communication so everyone’s concerns can be heard.
• Ensure your equipment is compatible with alpine conditions.

Our thoughts and condolences are with the whānau and friends of Wednesday Davis.