Climber dies after falling from Queenstown cliff

Story updated 6.30pm

A man has died after falling 50 metres at a popular rock climbing crag behind Gorge Road in Queenstown.

Emergency services were called to a section of the Matakauri Park loop trail just before midday in response to reports someone had fallen while climbing.

Police and alpine rescue volunteers at the scene of a fatal climbing incident off Gorge Road in Queenstown, Wednesday, August 21, 2024.

Police confirm the man died at the scene and they are now supporting his next of kin.

The death has been referred to the coroner.

A spokesperson for Hato Hone St John says two ambulances responded to the incident.

A fire engine was also initially at the scene, along with members of a specialist alpine rescue crew.

The rock climbing walls are accessed from behind the Gorge Road Retail Centre, with Magnum Wall and Leonardo's Wall two of the most accessible routes.