The family of an American woman who died in a climbing accident near Whitianga in the Coromandel are urging other rock climbers in New Zealand to stay safe while climbing.
Lauren 'Kimi' Worrell died after falling more than 120 metres while attempting to descend a rock face at Castle Rock on Sunday.
In a statement released via the NZ Police, Ms Worrel's family say the 28-year-old had just finished her Masters degree from the University of Auckland, and was "an avid outdoors enthusiast and rock-climber".
The family, who travelled to New Zealand from California following her death, said they "would like to thank the two rock climbers who attempted a rescue, the Kuaotunu Land Search and Rescue Team who assisted on the day, members of the New Zealand Police, the US Consulate, and friends in New Zealand".
Her family also said they "wished to highlight a safety risk to those in the climbing community" following her death.
"The family ask climbers to consider very carefully their reliance on equipment left permanently fixed to rock faces, and the condition of this equipment," it read.
"This equipment will naturally be affected by UV rays and other elements of nature effecting its condition and reliability."
A private memorial service will be held this Sunday "to celebrate Kimi's life".
The local community is organising a fund in Kimi's memory and the proceeds will go towards maintaining existing hardware and fixed lines in rock climbing areas around the country.
"We are working to make climbing accessible and safer to everyone, and to prevent avoidable deaths like this in the future," the family said.
The Worrells are collecting donations through Givealittle, which can be found here.
A Rahui has been placed around the Castle Rock area and will be lifted by local iwi next week.
Ms Worrell's death remains under investigation before the Coroner.
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