The search for three climbers missing on Aoraki Mt Cook will depend on the weather. 

The three men, who were attempting to summit, were due to complete their climb at 8.30am yesterday but did not meet their prearranged transport, police said. 

A missing persons report was filed 12.45pm. 

“Police search and rescue and Department of Conservation search and rescue are working together to locate the three men,” a police spokesperson said. 

Aoraki Area Commander Inspector Vicki Walker said a helicopter and specialist search and rescue personnel searched on the mountain throughout the afternoon and into the evening until “weather conditions deteriorated”. 

According to MetService, heavy rain and snow above 3200 metres are forecast for the National Park today. 

They also described the risk of an avalanche in high alpine areas as “moderate”. 

Walker said they would be working with the Department of Conservation this morning to assess the weather conditions and determine whether search efforts are able to continue. 

- More to come.