Tourist dies on Mt Cook

A 57 year old tourist was found dead in the Mt Cook National Park this morning after being reported overdue from a day walk yesterday.

The man's body was found in a gully below the ridge from the Mueller Hut after an aerial search last night failed to locate him.

Police said it was believed he missed the turn off on the track back to the Mount Cook Village and then slipped and fell to his death.

The body was recovered by a helicopter crew with the help of the Department of Conservation and Mountain Rescue.

Police said the victim's travel companion was being comforted by Victim Support.

The American Embassy was assisting with the notification of the next of kin.

- NZPA