News
November 28, 2025
Aoraki Mt Cook tragedy: Mother shares life of ‘extraordinary’ son and lawyer
He and Wānaka-based guide Thomas Vialletet fell near the summit on Monday.
**Aoraki Mt Cook tragedy: Mother shares life of ‘extraordinary’ son and lawyer**
The grieving mother of a lawyer who died in a climbing accident on Aoraki Mt Cook has paid tribute to her "extraordinary" son, whose life was tragically cut short. The man, whose name has not yet been officially released by authorities, and Wānaka-based guide Thomas Vialletet, fell near the summit of New Zealand's highest peak on Monday.
The pair were experienced climbers, but the exact circumstances surrounding their fatal fall remain under investigation by police and the coroner. Search and Rescue teams were deployed to the mountain following reports of the accident, and their bodies were recovered after a challenging operation.
The mother, speaking through a family spokesperson, described her son as a bright, compassionate, and adventurous individual. He was a respected lawyer, known for his sharp intellect and dedication to justice. But beyond his professional life, he possessed a deep love for the outdoors and a passion for mountaineering.
"He was more than just a lawyer," the spokesperson conveyed. "He was an extraordinary son, brother, and friend. He lived life to the fullest, always seeking new challenges and experiences. His love for the mountains was profound, and he found peace and exhilaration in their beauty."
The family is grappling with immense grief, struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss. They have requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time.
The death of Thomas Vialletet, a well-known and respected mountain guide in the Wānaka region, has also sent shockwaves through the climbing community. He was described as a skilled and safety-conscious professional with extensive knowledge of the Southern Alps. His experience and expertise were highly sought after by climbers from around the world.
The accident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with mountaineering, even for seasoned professionals. Aoraki Mt Cook, despite its stunning beauty, is a formidable and unforgiving environment, where conditions can change rapidly and unexpectedly.
The Department of Conservation has issued standard safety advice for those venturing into the mountains, emphasizing the importance of careful planning, appropriate equipment, and awareness of weather conditions. As investigations continue, the climbing community mourns the loss of two lives and reflects on the dangers inherent in pursuing passions in the high country.
The grieving mother of a lawyer who died in a climbing accident on Aoraki Mt Cook has paid tribute to her "extraordinary" son, whose life was tragically cut short. The man, whose name has not yet been officially released by authorities, and Wānaka-based guide Thomas Vialletet, fell near the summit of New Zealand's highest peak on Monday.
The pair were experienced climbers, but the exact circumstances surrounding their fatal fall remain under investigation by police and the coroner. Search and Rescue teams were deployed to the mountain following reports of the accident, and their bodies were recovered after a challenging operation.
The mother, speaking through a family spokesperson, described her son as a bright, compassionate, and adventurous individual. He was a respected lawyer, known for his sharp intellect and dedication to justice. But beyond his professional life, he possessed a deep love for the outdoors and a passion for mountaineering.
"He was more than just a lawyer," the spokesperson conveyed. "He was an extraordinary son, brother, and friend. He lived life to the fullest, always seeking new challenges and experiences. His love for the mountains was profound, and he found peace and exhilaration in their beauty."
The family is grappling with immense grief, struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss. They have requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time.
The death of Thomas Vialletet, a well-known and respected mountain guide in the Wānaka region, has also sent shockwaves through the climbing community. He was described as a skilled and safety-conscious professional with extensive knowledge of the Southern Alps. His experience and expertise were highly sought after by climbers from around the world.
The accident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with mountaineering, even for seasoned professionals. Aoraki Mt Cook, despite its stunning beauty, is a formidable and unforgiving environment, where conditions can change rapidly and unexpectedly.
The Department of Conservation has issued standard safety advice for those venturing into the mountains, emphasizing the importance of careful planning, appropriate equipment, and awareness of weather conditions. As investigations continue, the climbing community mourns the loss of two lives and reflects on the dangers inherent in pursuing passions in the high country.
Category:
World