A second death at Mount Ruapehu's crater lake in 12 months has prompted calls for people to take extra care at the top of the mountain.
A man's body was pulled from the lake by members of the group he was with yesterday afternoon.
Another man died at the lake one year ago.
Ruapehu District Mayor Don Cameron said the snow was becoming soft around this time of year, and people needed to be extra vigilant at high altitudes.
"I understand it's a skiier that's fallen in, but also apparently someone climbing also slipped on the ice and lost their ice axe," he said.
Mr Cameron said people venturing near the crater lake should take extra advice before heading up, or stick to well known trails.
Yesterday's death is being referred to the coroner.
An American tourist also died while skiing on Mount Aspiring yesterday.
Police said the 35-year-old man was skiing downhill toward the Bonar Glacier when he fell and died.
Another person they were skiing with attempted first aid but the man died at the scene.
An investigation into his death is now underway.
SHARE ME