Dead rock climber named

Published: 2:32PM Sunday November 08, 2009

Source: NZPA

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A 26-year-old rock climber who was found dead in Central Otago on Saturday has been identified.

Matthew Byron Allison, a British national who has been in New Zealand since February, was found in thick scrub at the base of Chinaman's Bluff , a popular rock climbing site in the Dart River Valley, 50km northwest of Queenstown.

Allison's climbing companion, 37-year-old James Briscall of Wanaka, was rescued unharmed.

Police say both men were experienced climbers.

They say it appears that the accident happened after a rope became entangled while the pair were making their way back down the cliff face after completing the climb.

While trying to free the rope, Allison fell about 155m to his death.

Briscall says he wants 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 has also thanked rescue services for their efforts.

Allison's death has been referred to the coroner.

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