Police are assessing weather conditions this morning to determine whether the search for three missing climbers on Aoraki Mt Cook can resume.

Inspector Vicki Walker, Aoraki Area Commander, said police are working with the Department of Conservation (DOC) to evaluate the situation after yesterday’s efforts were paused due to deteriorating conditions.

The climbers were reported overdue yesterday after failing to meet their pre-arranged transport at 8.30am. A missing persons report was filed at 12.45pm, prompting a search involving Police Search and Rescue and DOC teams.

Helicopters and specialist personnel searched the mountain throughout the afternoon and evening until worsening weather forced a halt shortly before 8pm.

Walker said updates on the search would be provided as new information becomes available.

“The weather is a key factor in today’s operations, and we are working closely with DOC to decide the next steps,” she said.