Police say the death of a climber on Mount Ruapehu is a tragic incident and highlights the unforgiving environment

A woman fell a significant distance after slipping on the eastern side of the mountain and later died.

Sergeant Shane McNally says police cannot reiterate enough the importance of understanding the alpine environment and being prepared mentally and physically.

A rahui remains in place for the eastern slopes of Mount Ruapehu above two thousand metres until 6am Tuesday.

Police say their investigation is ongoing.