New Zealand / Otago

Snowboarder dies on Coronet Peak

17:34 pm on 5 August 2019

A snowboarder on Coronet Peak died today, however it is not believed to be from a fall.

Photo: 123RF

The 42-year-old Australian was discovered lying in the snow by four other mountain users about 11.35am.

NZSki chief executive Paul Anderson said two of the guests were trained in first aid and immediately gave the man CPR. Two medical teams from the mountain also arrived within five minutes with a defibrillator but the man could not be revived.

He had been using a ski slope on the mountain, Mr Anderson said.

"We don't believe it was a fall.

"The guest was found in the snow.

"Our medical teams on the mountain responded well and dealt with the situation as best they could."

One of the chairlifts was closed while staff assisted the man but the mountain was not closed.

The matter has been referred to the police.

"Our thoughts go out to the man's family at this sad time," Mr Anderson said.

"We are assisting the police with their investigation and will be making contact with the man's family to offer our condolences. We are also supporting our staff and guests on the mountain who may have been affected by this event."