Coroner’s Report Prompts Safety Reminder for Day Hikers
Media Release
NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is reminding day hikers, particularly those heading into alpine terrain, of the importance of going prepared, following the coroner’s inquiry into the tragic death of Ho-Jung Kim in July 2019.
In his findings released on 9 December, Coroner Andrew Schirnack concluded that the 24-year-old Korean national died from hypothermia while on a day hike to Bealey Spur Hut in Arthur’s Pass National Park.
Kim and a friend began the 12 km Bealey Spur Track alpine route on 6 July, intending to walk to the historic hut and return the same day, a trip that typically takes around 5 hours. Around an hour and 15 minutes into the walk, his friend decided to turn back while Kim continued alone. When he failed to return to the carpark, his friend notified police at 8.45 pm and a search was launched. His body was found the following morning about 1 km off the track.
NZ Mountain Safety Council Report
As part of the coronial inquiry, MSC provided a report identifying factors that may have contributed to the tragedy. These included:
- Inadequate clothing: Kim was wearing only a hoodie, fleece jacket and jeans, which were unsuitable for the conditions, with the temperature dropping to between -3 and -5 degrees in the area overnight.
- A lack of essential safety gear: Kim was not carrying an emergency communication device, navigation aid or torch.
- Solo travel: Kim continued hiking alone after his friend turned back. MSC noted that solo tramping reduces the chance of accessing help if something goes wrong.
- Possible navigation error: Kim was found at the bottom of steep terrain, some distance from the track, although it is unclear if he deliberately left the track.
MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley says thorough preparation and respect for the terrain and conditions are vital to preventing similar tragedies.
“This incident highlights the critical importance of appropriate clothing and equipment, carrying emergency gear, going with a companion, and sticking together, even on day walks,” says Daisley.
MSC made a number of key recommendations in its report. By sharing these, MSC hopes to help prevent similar tragedies and support safe participation in outdoor adventures.
NZ Mountain Safety Council’s Recommendations
When venturing into the outdoors, always:
- Travel with a companion wherever possible as this improves safe decision-making, allows resources to be shared and provides mutual support.
- Wear moisture-wicking and insulating clothing, including taking thermal layers and a waterproof jacket.
- Carry emergency gear. A reliable communication device, a navigation aid like a printed or digital map, a head torch, extra food and an emergency shelter are critical for alpine trips.
- If you become lost or disoriented, stop immediately. Continuing in the hope of finding your way back can make the situation worse. Stay put and focus on your immediate needs, such as warmth and shelter.
“Thorough planning and preparation are essential for day hikes, particularly for those unfamiliar with New Zealand’s unique conditions and terrain, and especially if heading into alpine areas,” says Daisley. “We encourage hikers to use Plan My Walk to help plan their trips safely.”
The free app and website include detailed trip descriptions, weather forecasts and warnings, and up-to-date track alerts.
Over the last 10 years, there have been eight tramping fatalities in New Zealand due to hypothermia. Seven of these involved international visitors and/or migrants.
The MSC team extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Ho-Jung Kim.
PHOTO CREDIT | Lily Grif, Plan My Walk | Bealey Spur Track