Climb Ends in Fortunate Survival for Adventurer

Glean insights from the experiences of two mountain climbers who miraculously lived through an avalanche on the southern slope of Mount Alma in the Two Thumbs Range, Canterbury, in 2020.

, and ASMedia

2025 September 27 . 3:32 AM

2 min read

Climb Ends in Fortunate Survival for Adventurer

On a fateful day, the 14th of June 2020, a climbing incident occurred on the south face of Mt Alma in the Two Thumbs Range, Canterbury. Tom, one of the climbers, found himself in the midst of an avalanche.

Tom and his climbing partner had decided to climb Mt Alma via the NE ridge. They camped at about 1350m in the head of Alma Stream the night before their attempt. However, they did not discuss the avalanche danger of their route up.

As they ascended, Tom heard a 'whumph' sound and began sliding in an avalanche. He managed to stabilise himself during the mt bank and ride it out until it stopped. Unfortunately, Tom's injury required surgery, and he was recovering in a hospital after the incident.

Tom's partner went to rescue him after the avalanche. Using a 'barrel roll' technique, the partner managed to get out of the mt bank. Tom's partner and he both expressed gratitude towards the Aoraki/Mt Cook Alpine Cliff Rescue Team and the helicopter rescue crew.

The thin snowpack on Mt Alma should not be taken for granted, Tom noted. He also emphasised the importance of continually reassessing conditions. In light of the incident, Tom expressed a desire to learn more about avalanche awareness and snow science.

The Mountain Safety Council (MSC) offers free online courses and field courses to learn about avalanche safety. The MSC also recommends carrying avalanche rescue equipment at all times when alpine climbing in snow-covered terrain.

The avalanche on Mt. Alma in the Two Thumbs Range, Canterbury, was triggered by a backcountry skier. The incident was reported via the NZ Avalanche Advisory public observation tool.

Tom's harrowing experience serves as a reminder of the dangers that can lurk in the mountains. He suggested safer ways of accessing the ridge in the future, hoping that other climbers can learn from his experience and climb safely.