Deadly Fall Near Brewster Hut Triggers Safety Warning: Caution Urged for Hikers Due to Recent Tragedy
In the wake of a tragic fatality on the Brewster Track in Mt Aspiring National Park, the Mountain Safety Council (MSC) and the Department of Conservation (DOC) have emphasised the importance of safety measures and responsible hiking practices for those venturing beyond Brewster Hut.
## Safety Measures and Advisories
1. **Track and Weather Conditions**
Always consult the DOC for the latest track conditions, weather forecasts, and avalanche risk information before setting out. Use resources such as the Wānaka Tracks App to review up-to-date information on track difficulty, length, and viewpoints.
2. **Personal Responsibility**
Let someone know your intentions, including your planned route and expected return time. Carry appropriate gear, including extra food, water, warm clothing, a first aid kit, navigation tools, and a headlamp. Be especially cautious of avalanche risk, particularly after snowfall or heavy rain. Pay attention to river conditions, especially after rainfall, as water levels can rise quickly and crossings may become hazardous.
3. **Environmental and Route Changes**
Be aware that access points and trail conditions may have changed from previous years due to environmental shifts. Glacial retreat has made some traditional routes more dangerous or impassable. Some huts historically used as safe bases have been removed or closed.
4. **Emergency and Communication**
Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite communication device, as mobile coverage is often unreliable in remote alpine areas. In case of emergency, be prepared to self-rescue or wait for help, considering the remoteness of the area.
5. **Hut and Overnight Considerations**
Some huts operate on a first-come, first-served basis and may fill up, especially during busy periods. Always have a backup plan for overnight stays. Follow DOC guidelines for hut etiquette, including waste disposal and respecting other users.
6. **Additional Resources**
Contact the Mt Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre for hut passes and the latest safety information. If you are inexperienced in alpine environments, consider hiring a guide for challenging routes or technical terrain.
By adhering to these safety measures and keeping abreast of current advisories, hikers can significantly reduce risks associated with venturing beyond Brewster Hut on the Brewster Track. The MSC urges trampers to assess their skills before attempting unmarked routes beyond Brewster Hut.
Conditions in the area beyond Brewster Hut are highly changeable year-round and can include rain, freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and avalanches, especially in winter. Beyond Brewster Hut towards Brewster Glacier or Mt Armstrong, there are no marked tracks. The tracks that are marked above the bushline in the Brewster area are indicated by a pole topped with an orange plastic marker.
The MSC extends its condolences to the deceased's family and friends, and all those affected by this fatality. The MSC Chief Executive has stated that this tragedy is a reminder of the risks in alpine environments. In the last five years until 31 December 2024, there have been 20 search and rescue operations involving 43 people, with one fatality in that period, on Brewster Track and beyond Brewster Hut towards Brewster Glacier.
In April 2024, a Brewster interagency taskforce was set up, consisting of MSC, DOC, NZ Police, and the local LandSAR team. The taskforce is working to improve safety measures and signage in the area, with new DOC signage for Brewster Track and at the hut recently implemented, with further work underway.
Engaging in outdoor-living and sports activities such as hiking and travel require a keen awareness of one's surroundings and safety measures. To minimize risks while exploring beyond Brewster Hut on the Brewster Track, one should be mindful of personal responsibilities, such as carrying appropriate gear, consulting the Department of Conservation (DOC) for weather and trail updates, and understanding environmental changes that may affect routes. Additionally, adopting a lifestyle that embraces home-and-garden activities like hut etiquette and waste disposal can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable outdoor-living experience for all.
