Missing tramper's death confirmed

Police have confirmed a body found south of Fox Glacier yesterday is that of a missing French-Canadian tramper.

Sorem Kvist, 40, from Montreal, began a tramp over the Copland track early last week despite warnings from the Department of Conservation.

His body was found halfway between Douglas Rock Hut and Copland Pass late yesterday afternoon.

His death was not suspicious and had been referred to the coroner, Greymouth acting Senior Sergeant Brent Cook said.

Mr Kvist's family had been contacted through the Canadian Embassy and arrangements were being made for his body to be returned to Canada.

A post mortem examination was completed today and an inquest will be held at a later date.

- NZPA