Three Climbers Presumed Dead After Fall on New Zealand's Aoraki Peak

Search efforts for two American and one Canadian climber have been suspended after weather delays and evidence suggested a fatal fall.

Authorities in New Zealand ended the search for three climbers missing for five days on Aoraki, citing no signs of survival.
The climbers, two Americans and one Canadian, were experienced mountaineers who began their ascent on November 30 but failed to meet their scheduled pickup on December 2.
Aerial reconnaissance and drones identified footprints and personal items, including an ice axe and clothing, scattered on the slopes beneath Zurbriggen Ridge.
The search was delayed for three days due to hazardous weather conditions, further complicating rescue efforts.
Aoraki, New Zealand's tallest peak, is known for its dangerous terrain, with over 240 recorded deaths since the early 20th century.