Chapter 4: Accounts of Avalanche Accidents
snowpack contributed to the avalanche (Figure 4.27). The victims were carried about 40m and were finally located buried within about 3m2. Those fully buried were
found up to 2.5m in depth. The cause of death for both of the deceased was later determined as asphyxia.
Source: Report of the Tukino Ski Field Avalanche Accident, compiled by D. Bogie for NZMSC COR 92/000168 COR 92/000178 The Press, 23July 1991
49 Ohau Ski Area (10 August 1991) (Map 3) Avalanche control; 3 caught, 1 killed
Shallow early winter snow followed by long cold clear periods in July resulted in a weak snow base in the Mackenzie and Mt Cook areas of the South Island. Fluctuating freezing levels then produced a strong melt freeze layer. Following more snow, a return to cold clear weather saw weak snow develop on top of the melt freeze layer.
others began work digging out the bull wheel of the T-bar.
In the second week of August, depressions with associated frontal bands moving east across the south of the South Island produced large amounts of precipitation in the area, accompanied by moderate to strong winds from the west to northwest (Figure 4.28). The Ohau ski area had been closed for nearly a week.
When those on foot were about half way up the ridge, they turned to see that the person ascending on skis (about 50m below them) had ventured onto the bottom of the avalanche path adjacent to the ridge. As they were urging the person (via radio) to get off the slope, a large avalanche released above the skier. This avalanche triggered sympathetic avalanches on adjacent slopes on each side of the path and ridge.
Of the three ascending to the saddle, two were walking up what was considered a safe route in the centre of the ridge, while the third climbed on skis to one side. The three staff undertaking avalanche control carried transceivers, while the two staff working below did not.
Early in the afternoon on Saturday the 10th of August, five ski area staff travelled on a groomer to the top of the T-bar. From there, three staff began an avalanche control route by ascending a small ridge between avalanche paths that extended to the saddle above. Meanwhile the two
The person on skis was swept down the slope by the initial avalanche and partially buried, while the other two staff remained secure on the ridge above. 105