'Unprepared' Arrowtown tourist died of hypothermia

A tourist who was found dying on an Arrowtown walking track died of hypothermia after possibly falling asleep due to elevated blood alcohol levels, a Coroner’s report says.

Wai Ming Lai (51), from Hong Kong, was holidaying in the Queenstown Lakes District when he was found by a mountain biker in a state the Coroner’s report described as “very unwell”, on the Bush Creek Track in Arrowtown on October 22, 2022.

The man then deteriorated, becoming unresponsive. When emergency services arrived on the scene they confirmed he had died.

Coroner Amelia Steele’s report said a post mortem examination found alcohol levels in the deceased body at 194mg/100mL. The legal blood alcohol level for an adult is 50mg/100mL.

The direct cause of Mr Lai’s death was found to be hypothermia, Coroner Steele said.

Mr Lai, who was known to be diabetic was last seen  October 21,  2022, by another walker who was returning from viewing the Glow Worms accessed via the Bush Creek Track Arrowtown at about 10.30pm. 

“It appeared to the walker that Mr Lai was resting on the path as he was sitting down and leaning on his backpack,” the report said.

“The following morning, he was found on the same track by a mountain biker who noticed a strong smell of alcohol coming from Mr Lai. He heard Mr Lai making moaning noises and observed him to become unresponsive.

“Additional members of the public who were using the track arrived and assisted. Mr Lai diabetes medication was located, and his blood sugar levels were taken.

“Emergency services were called and attempted to resuscitate Mr Lai but sadly, this was not successful.”

At the time of his death Police observed “some unusual aspects” to the case. 

Mr Lai was previously seen in Wānaka, travelling with a large silver suitcase that was not found. Police also said he was due to fly out of the country on October 18 but did not catch that flight, nor did he re-book his travel.

However, the Coroner’s report said investigating police were satisfied the death was not suspicious.

The Coroner stated that Mr Lai had either become disorientated or fallen asleep with elevated alcohol level, noting he was not prepared for the overnight conditions.

“He was insufficiently dressed and was not sheltered from the elements; consequentially Mr Lai suffered hypothermia and died.”

Main image (supplied): Wai Ming Lai died after falling asleep on an Arrowtown walking track bench with elevated alcohol levels.