Dead rock climber a local environmentalist 

Source: ONE News

A British rock climber who fell 155 metres to his death in Central Otago on Friday night was a local environmental activist who loved living in Wanaka.

Matthew Byron Allison, 26, had been in New Zealand since February, working in Wanaka for recycling and sustainability group Wastebusters until two weeks ago.

He was halfway down a climb in the Dart River Valley with 37-year-old Wanaka man James Briscall when he lost his balance trying to free a tangled rope.

Briscall spent the night alone on the ledge, calling out to Mr Allison, before being found by a search and rescue party after concerned friends contacted police.

Allison's body was found about 8.25am on Saturday in thick scrub at the base of Chinaman's Bluff, a popular rock climbing site, 50km northwest of Queenstown.

Briscall was airlifted from the ledge.

Both men were experienced climbers, and Allison had climbed the bluff previously.

Briscall said in a statement he wanted to express his heartfelt sympathy to Allison's family and friends.

"Matt and I had experienced a fantastic climb and Matt had expressed how at home and how privileged he felt, to bear witness to the amazing scenery around us."

Briscall also thanked rescue services for their efforts.

Wanaka Wastebusters general manager Sue Coutts said Allison was "a dynamic and enthusiastic person, with a great sense of fun".

"He was very actively involved in community activities of all sorts and made many friends during his time in Wanaka."

Allison's family in the United Kingdom had been notified by police.

His death was referred to the coroner.