German tourist dies on tramp near Wanaka

A German tourist has died while tramping in the South Island’s Mt Aspiring National Park.

The 38-year-old’s body was found yesterday after he went missing two days ago in the Cascade Saddle area of the national park, near Wanaka.

Senior Constable Mike Johnston, of Wanaka, said the tramper’s friend reported him missing on December 23 after he was overdue from a solo tramp that started on November 29.

His body was found after a search by helicopter was undertaken near the area known as the ‘‘pylon’’.

Previous fatalities have occurred in the same area of the Cascade Track.

Johnston said the tramper slid down a snow patch near the top of the climb and, being unable to stop himself, fell 200 metres to his death.

Trampers needed to be aware of the unforgiving nature of the slippery and steep terrain, he said.

‘‘This steep and challenging route over the Cascade Saddle is an alpine environment, which requires a high level of risk and, in turn, a high level of skill,’’ Johnston said.

‘‘This route should not be attempted unless key factors have been evaluated, such as fitness, alpine experience, weather, and equipment.’’

The man’s name will be released after family members in Germany have been contacted.